Your headlights keep you safe during times when it can be hard to see the road and other drivers. You need them to stay visible to those drivers and to see where you are going, so when your headlights start to fail, you’ll need to see about replacing them.

While prices can vary drastically from one car to another and from one mechanic to another, on average, you will pay about $70 to have the headlight replaced. Labor should be about $50, while parts are close to $20 for each headlight.

Headlight Bulb Replacement Cost Comparison

Your Mechanic

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $48-$175

 

Midas

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $44-$152

 

Mr. Tire

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $39-$184

 

NAPA

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 24 months $42-$149

 

Walmart

Work Warranty Price
Parts Limited $12-$59

 

Amazon

Work Warranty Price
Parts Limited $18-$52

 

What Is Headlight Bulb Replacement?

Most of the time, replacing the headlight is quick and easy. In some vehicles, however, it takes a long time and can cost quite a bit, because so many parts have to be removed and because the headlight is an expensive component. Generally, you just need to replace the headlight, but there may be some times where there is a larger electrical problem that needs to be fixed.

Benefits of Headlight Bulb Replacement

It is far safer to drive with your headlamps working as they should be. You can drive at night once more after the headlight has been replaced, and in foggy weather and heavy rains. Your car will be far more visible, and you will be able to see the road better. You also won’t have to worry about being pulled over by the police for a malfunctioning headlight.

What Is Done during Headlight Bulb Replacement?

This is a simple procedure in most vehicles. The mechanic will have to remove the back of the headlamp assembly. Then, he will need to unplug the headlamp from the electrical wires that hold it in place and feed it power. From there, it is a simple matter of taking out the old bulb and putting in the new one, then reconnecting everything again.

This can be a complicated process in some vehicles, taking much longer and requiring more steps, but for most, it’s quick and simple. Of course, the mechanic will want to test out the new headlight to ensure it is working properly, after installing it.

When to Get a Headlight Bulb Replacement

Your headlight bulb may not be completely out when you need a new bulb. If it is emitting a weak light or only lights up intermittently, then it is due for replacement. Of course, if your headlight bulb has completely gone out, it is no longer safe to drive at night or in adverse weather conditions, and you need to get the bulb changed out right away. You can still drive your car with a bulb out, but it’s not advisable to do so. You run the risk of being in a low-light situation and not being able to make your vehicle stand out enough to drive safely. Even driving without a bulb in the daytime can be risky, as you may have to deal with fog and heavy rain- conditions where having a headlight are often necessary.

How to Save Money on Headlight Bulb Replacement

If you want to do this project yourself and save some money, then that may be the best way to go. In most cars, this will be one of the simpler repairs you can make. If you run into trouble and find that you aren’t sure how to replace the headlight, then you should get your vehicle to a mechanic for this job.

You can also compare costs for different mechanics on this service, but you aren’t going save a lot of money since it’s pretty cheap.

Sample Headlight Bulb Replacement Costs

Model Labor Parts Total
Ford F-Series $72-$92 $36-$52 $108-$144
Chevrolet Silverado $90-$114 $32-$52 $122-$166
Ford Focus $72-$92 $18-$26 $90-$118
Toyota Camry $45-$57 $15-$27 $60-$84
Toyota Corolla $45-$57 $15-$27 $60-$84
Nissan Altima $27-$34 $16-$26 $43-$60
Honda CR-V $54-$69 $32-$52 $86-$121
Honda Civic $54-$69 $32-$52 $86-$121
Honda Accord $54-$69 $32-$52 $86-$121
Ford Fusion $72-$92 $18-$26 $90-$118