How to Replace Headlights?
2 Answers
Step 1: Open the hood and locate the headlight bracket. Car headlights are secured with brackets to prevent shaking while driving. First, open the car's hood and look near the engine compartment close to the headlight position. You will easily find the bulb socket in the headlight assembly, connected with multiple power wires—this is the headlight bracket we need. Step 2: Disconnect the power wires. Generally, the connection between the headlight base and the power supply is secured with plastic clips, metal clamps, or nuts. While unplugging the power connector, press the small hidden latch above the clip to remove the power smoothly. Note that different car models may have different securing methods; screws or metal clamps can be loosened with tools. Step 3: Remove the bulb. After disconnecting the power wires, the base bracket can be taken out. Then, simply remove the bulb by following the direction of the arrow (usually clockwise, but this varies by model). Avoid touching the bulb directly with your hands, as it is fragile and can easily break or cut your skin. It’s best to wear gloves when handling it. Step 4: Install the new bulb. Before replacing the bulb, ensure the new one matches the original specifications. Similar to removal, avoid direct contact with the bulb, as oils from your hands can reduce its lifespan due to the gas inside. Secure the new bulb correctly in the socket, reconnect the power wires, tighten the dust cover, and finally test the headlight. Like regular oil and filter changes, car bulbs also require periodic replacement. Typically, after driving 50,000 km or around 2 years, the bulb brightness may weaken. It’s advisable to visit a 4S shop for inspection. If brightness is insufficient, replace the bulbs—preferably both sides simultaneously to avoid uneven illumination. The first type is halogen bulbs. These offer the poorest brightness and shortest illumination distance among all types, with a relatively short lifespan. Their only advantage is low cost, priced around 30 RMB, with even the most expensive brands not exceeding 100 RMB. Thus, replacement costs are very low, making halogen headlights common in budget cars (around 100,000 RMB). The second type is xenon headlights, mostly designed as an integrated unit with built-in lenses. Their key advantages are high brightness and long illumination range, though they have a slight delay when turning on. Due to these features, higher-end models often come equipped with xenon headlights. The third type is LED headlights, which have grown popular in recent years. Structurally similar to halogen bulbs (single-bulb design), LED lights emit light via chips, ensuring a very long lifespan. Currently, cars priced around 200,000 RMB often feature LED headlights. Since LED high and low beams are separate, their production cost is higher. Lastly, we have laser headlights—exclusive to luxury models. Combining all the advantages of the previous types, they are durable, bright, and long-range. However, they are significantly more expensive.
A few days ago I replaced my car's headlights by myself, which was actually quite simple but required attention to detail. First, you need to know your car model to purchase the corresponding bulb type from an auto parts store or online. Before starting, always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to avoid short circuits during operation. Open the engine compartment and locate the rear cover of the headlight—some cars may require removing screws from the front bumper. When removing the old bulb, remember to wear gloves and avoid touching the glass part of the new bulb with bare hands, as sweat can shorten its lifespan. During installation, align the clips and gently push the bulb in without using excessive force. After installation, test the light angle before securing the screws; otherwise, it may blind other drivers at night. The whole process takes about 30-40 minutes, saving over 200 yuan compared to a repair shop. Essential tools include a Phillips screwdriver and insulating tape.
