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How to change the low beam headlight?


Changing a low beam headlight is a straightforward task that many car owners can handle themselves. With just a few tools and a little guidance, you can save time and money by performing this maintenance at home. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to successfully change your low beam headlight.


Tools and Materials Needed


Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:



  • New low beam headlight bulb (check your owner's manual for the correct type)

  • Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your vehicle)

  • Gloves (to avoid touching the bulb with bare hands)

  • Towel or cloth (to protect the car's surface)


Steps to Change the Low Beam Headlight


Follow these steps to change your low beam headlight:



  1. Turn off the vehicle: Ensure your car is turned off and the keys are removed from the ignition.

  2. Open the hood: Locate the hood release lever inside your vehicle and open the hood. Secure it with the prop rod.

  3. Locate the headlight assembly: Find the back of the headlight assembly where the low beam bulb is housed.

  4. Remove the bulb connector: Gently twist or pull the connector to disconnect it from the bulb.

  5. Remove the old bulb: Depending on your vehicle, you may need to twist or unclip the bulb from the assembly. Be careful not to break it.

  6. Install the new bulb: Wearing gloves, take the new bulb and insert it into the socket. Make sure it is secure.

  7. Reconnect the bulb connector: Attach the connector back onto the new bulb, ensuring it clicks into place.

  8. Test the new bulb: Before closing the hood, turn on your vehicle and check if the new low beam headlight is functioning properly.

  9. Close the hood: Once confirmed, close the hood securely.


Tips for Success


Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth headlight replacement:



  • Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions related to your make and model.

  • Consider replacing both low beam bulbs at the same time to maintain even lighting.

  • Handle the new bulb carefully; oils from your skin can cause the bulb to burn out prematurely.


By following these steps, you can easily change your low beam headlight and keep your vehicle safe on the road. Regular maintenance like this not only enhances visibility but also contributes to overall vehicle safety.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do you change a low beam headlight?


You'll want to detach the wire socket from the bulb. Just press the tab to release it. And pull on the socket. Be careful to pull on the socket. And not the wires.



How do I lower my headlight beams?


As you stand in the front of the car, have the assistant turn the headlights off. Next, put the dark cloth or cardboard over one headlight, and have the assistant turn the headlights on. Find the adjusting screw and turn the screws slowly clockwise to raise the height of the lights or counterclockwise to lower them.



How much does it cost to replace a low beam headlight?


When you factor in the cost of the bulb and the labor, you will be looking at a total cost of between $30 and $300, depending on the type of bulb and the difficulty of installation. If you need to replace the entire headlight assembly, the price variation is extreme, to say the least.



How do you fix low beam headlights not working?


The likely cause is a fuse, headlight relay, headlight switch, dimmer switch or a wiring fault. About the only cause that is an easy fix is a blown fuse. Consult your owner's manual to locate the main fuse for the headlight circuit and replace that fuse with one having the same amp rating.



How do you change to low beams?


Simply point your switch to the low beam symbol to turn on your dipped beam headlights. On the other hand, you can opt for high beam headlights by pushing and pulling the turn signal lever. To sum it up, use low beams when road visibility is relatively poor.



How much does it cost to fix a low beam headlight?


When you factor in the cost of the bulb and the labor, you will be looking at a total cost of between $30 and $300, depending on the type of bulb and the difficulty of installation. If you need to replace the entire headlight assembly, the price variation is extreme, to say the least.



Can I replace a headlight by myself?


You don't need to go to a garage to replace the light bulbs in your car. Just read the steps in our do-it-yourself headlight replacement tutorial and you'll see how easy is to change your headlights or brake lights safely yourself.



Will AutoZone change my low beam bulb?


Answer: While AutoZone does not typically provide headlight installation services, you can purchase a replacement bulb or headlight assembly from them, along with the necessary tools.



Does O'Reilly change headlight bulbs for free?


We also offer FREE bulb installation*. *Our parts professionals can install most vehicle light bulbs, however, some vehicles are exempt from this service due to hard-to-access bulbs or lighting assemblies that require extensive disassembly.



How to fix bulb failure low beam?


First, remove the bulb and check if there's any kind of discoloration. If the bulb looks fine, try swapping it with the other side to check if there's power getting to the headlight. If the problem persists, check the igniter or the fuses to see if the headlight is getting power.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.