How to Change Headlight Bulbs

Your vehicle’s headlights help you see in poor weather and low light conditions, and let other drivers know where your vehicle is on the road. Functioning headlights are also required by state law for any vehicle operating on the road, and are part of a regular safety inspection in states where this is required to register the vehicle. If you have a headlight bulb that is failing, flickering, or burned out, replace it as soon as possible to keep you and your vehicle safe. It’s recommended that both of your vehicle’s headlight bulbs be replaced at the same time since the bulbs are likely the same age and experience equal amounts of use and wear. Because bulbs experience wear at the same rate, it’s more likely that both bulbs will burn out around the same time or close together. Our detailed step-by-step instructions will help you replace your car’s headlight bulbs to help keep you driving safely.


Tools & Materials List
Step-by-Step Instructions
Additional Resources

Tools & Materials

Safety Eye Glasses Safety Glasses

Protective Gloves Gloves

SilverStar ULTRA Headlight Bulbs

Step-By-Step Instructions to Change Headlight Bulbs

Before completing your headlight bulb replacement, we recommend checking your vehicle’s owners manual or service manual to review the manufacturer’s recommended steps. If you’re not sure which headlight bulbs are right for your vehicle, check out our tips on headlight bulb selection to help you find the best bulb for your car, truck, or SUV. If you don’t feel completely comfortable doing this maintenance task yourself, one of our parts professionals may also be able to replace your headlight bulbs for free with purchase. If they are not able to do so, we are more than happy to refer you to a professional technician.

Hood of car open for replacing headlights

Step 1. Open the Hood

Make sure your vehicle and headlights are turned off. Once you have your replacement bulbs (and your safety glasses are on), open the hood and take a look behind the headlight assembly. Sometimes, if you can’t access the back of the bulb, you might have to remove your battery or air filter housing to make room. Check your owners manual for vehicle-specific instructions.
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locate and detach the wire socket from headlight bulb

Step 2: Disconnect the Headlight Connector

The headlight bulb is located in the back of the headlight assembly housing. Once you can get to the bulb, you'll see a socket with wires that are plugged into the base of the bulb. Detach the headlight connector or socket from the bulb by squeezing the tab to release it and gently pulling on the connector. The connector should detach from the back of the bulb.


Do It Right: Be sure to pull on the socket, not the wires, as this could damage the wiring harness.

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carefully remove bulb

Step 3: Remove the Old Headlight Bulb

Twist the old bulb counterclockwise to disengage it from the headlight assembly and slide it straight out. Some vehicles may also have a clip or retaining ring that must be loosened or detached before the bulb can be removed, so be sure to inspect your headlight bulb to understand the necessary steps.
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Preparing to replace headlight bulb

Step 4: Insert the New Headlight Bulb

Slide the bulb into position and secure it by rotating the bulb clockwise, or by reinstalling the clip or retaining ring.

Do It Right: Be sure not touch the bulb with your bare fingers. Oil and grease from your fingertips can create hot spots on the glass that can cause the bulb to burn out prematurely.

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slide in headlight bulb and reattach wire socket

Step 5: Reattach the Headlight Connector

After the new bulb is inserted, reattach the headlight connector.
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repeating process to change headlights on other side of the vehicle

Step 6: Repeat Steps on the Other Side

Repeat these steps on the other side of your vehicle if you’re replacing both headlight bulbs.
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Step 6: Test Your Headlights

Turn on your headlights and make sure your headlights work properly before you close the hood.

Additional Resources

Headlight Bulb Selection

Bulb Selection
We give you an in-depth look at the different models of headlight bulb to help you determine which ones you might want when you need a replacement. Read about each model to see which headlight is right for your vehicle.
Headlight Lens Restoration and Cleaner

Headlight Restoration
A fairly common problem that arises with modern headlights is dull, cloudy headlight lenses. Not only does it look bad, but it’s also a safety hazard, hindering your ability to see down the road and keeping other drivers from seeing you as well.
Additional Resource - How to Fix Dim Headlights

How to Fix Dim Headlights

Your car’s headlight bulbs help provide clearer vision in dark, low light, or poor weather conditions. We're happy to walk you through the steps to ensure you're driving safely.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.