A few months ago, I experienced a common problem that most people eventually go through with their cars:
One of my headlights burned out.
My initial trepidation at changing the light changed to confidence once I realized how easy this job really was. Don’t worry, if you can change a light bulb in your bedroom, you can change a headlight.
Things You Will Need To Change Your Headlights:
Your owner’s manual A good light source A clean, dry rag New bulbs (2)
First off, if you can do this project outside, you’ll find it easier to see what you’re doing. If you have to be in your garage, then make sure you can see what you’re doing by using a strong light source.
Your owner’s manual should be able to tell you what kind of light bulb that you have in your headlight. If you don’t have that, then simply go ahead and remove the burned out light bulb (will explain that below). Then take that bulb into the auto parts store with you to make sure you get the correct replacements.
Taking out the old light bulb is a lot easier than you think. Once you prop your hood open, look for the trapezoid-like plastic device that is coming out from your headlight area and that has three wires attached to it. You should be able to tell that it’s connected directly to the headlight bulb.
Remove the connector from the clip that is holding it in place so that you can slide it out so that the bulb comes with it. Sometimes, you might have to turn the connector 90-degrees to get it out.
Remove the old bulb by simply pulling it out of its connector. Then, making sure that you use the rag to hold the bulb (oils from your fingers on the bulb can cause it to prematurely burn out), place the new bulb into the connector, and put the connector back in the reverse way you took it out.
TIP: Even if just one bulb is burned out, replace them both!! That will give your car an even light projection and will be safer for you, the drive, and for oncoming cars.
There you have it! An easy five-minute maintenance project that anyone can do, and that will save you quite a lot of money in repair costs.