How to change a bad auto headlight

One of the simplest repairs that the automotive novice can perform is replacing a burned out headlight.

The first thing that I would recommend doing is to go get a "haynes" manual for the year, make and model of the car that you are going to fix. I always prefer the haynes manuals because the information in them is concise and right to the point. They are carried in most autoparts stores, K mart, and Walmart, for about $20.00 or less. They also might be available at your local library to check out, (some of them are where I live.) Having a manual to reference makes any job a whole lot easier, and it gives you a starting point when deciding if the repair is something you want to try, or have a mechanic do.

Most headlights are removed in the same way. If you have the sealed beam type, (old style), there is a plug on the back and about 4 to 6 screws on the sides to hold it in. Simply remove the screws, and unplug the connection on the back. Sometimes it maybe a little tough to unplug. If that happens, use a straight slot screwdriver and very gently pry the plug out. To put a new one in, just plug it in, and replace the screws on the sides. You may want to try the headlights before you put all the screws back in so you know that its working as it should. If it isn't, try wiggling the plug connection. 99% of the time, its a loose connection when it isn't lighting up.

If you have the type that inserts into a housing, (new type), then its a matter of locating the screws that hold the housing on, removing them, and twisting the socket the light bulb fits in until you are able to separate the two. Carefully remove the bad bulb, and put the new one in its place. Make sure that you do not touch the glass part of the new bulb with your bare hand, as the oils may degrade the bulb, and cause it to burn out again. Also, handle it with caution because they are fragile, and nobody likes glass splinters in their palm.

Basic auto maintenance is something I think every driver should know. Why pay somebody $50.00 to do something simple that anyone with very basic mechanical skills could do? Good Luck