If you have a bad headlight bulb, it is an easy replacement and task many DIY-type individuals do.
Of course, if in doubt, be sure to take your vehicle to a professional.
Types of Headlight Bulbs
There are many types of headlight bulbs that will need to be matched to the year, make, and model of your vehicle.
Commonly used bulb types include 9005, 9006, 9012, and more.
Low Beam Vs. High Beam
Most vehicles have two headlight bulbs called the low beam and high beam bulb.
When a bulb fails, the correct bulb type will need to be bought.
For example, a 2006 GMC Sierra uses the 9005 bulbs as the high beam and the 9006 type as a low beam.
While not as common, some vehicles use the same bulb type for both high and low beams.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Headlight Bulb?
A headlight bulb cost can vary depending on the vehicle but usually falls in the $20-$75 range.
The bulb cost will depend on the vehicle and can be looked up on Amazon or eBay.
Some newer model vehicles cost more since the entire headlight assembly needs to be replaced.
Most vehicles have a low cost bulb that will need to be replaced, but some cars and trucks have a more difficult design.
Having a mechanic replace a headlight bulb will be minimal, but for a headlight assembly, the cost can be much higher.
Many auto parts stores can have an employee replace a headlight bulb for free after purchase but be sure to call first to find out if they do.
How to Replace a Headlight Bulb
- Open the hood.
- Locate the headlight bulb at the back of the headlight assembly
- Remove the wiring harness.
- Remove the bad bulb, usually twisting counterclockwise.
- Insert the new bulb usually twisting clockwise.
- Reattach the wiring harness and test the bulb.
Where Can I Buy a Headlight Bulb?
Headlight bulbs can be bought at auto parts stores or online such as Amazon or eBay.
The vehicle year, make, and model will be needed to get the correct replacement bulb as well as the high beam or low beam bulb.
Where to Get a Headlight Bulb Replaced?
Many auto parts stores will replace a headlight bulb for free after it is purchased at the location.
This, of course, can vary and will depend on the store and employees that are working.
Some vehicles that have a difficult-to-replace bulb will not be able to be done by an auto part store and need a mechanic to replace it.
Be sure to first call around at auto part stores and ask if they can replace the bulb on your vehicle or not.
Many people also replace the bulb themselves, which is an easy task for most cars and trucks.
There are many online tutorials and YouTube videos showing the steps.
How Long Does it Take to Replace a Headlight Bulb?
Most bulbs are a quick job taking 4-5 minutes, but for some vehicles, the job can be much longer.
While not common, some vehicles that need the headlight assembly removed can take roughly an hour to replace.