A broken headlight is a common problem that, in most cases, you can sort out yourself with a new bulb and the car’s owner’s manual. The process varies greatly depending on the make and model: in older cars, it’s a ten-minute job, whilst in modern cars, other parts sometimes need to be removed first. Below, you can read how to prepare, how to replace the bulb step by step, and what common mistakes you can avoid.
When should you replace your headlight?
A headlamp that has stopped working is the most obvious reason to replace it, but a headlamp that shines noticeably dimmer than the other may also indicate that the bulb is nearly burnt out. Driving with a faulty headlamp is not only dangerous but also an offence: you risk a fine and your car will fail its MOT test. Most headlights on Japanese and Korean cars use H7 or H4 bulbs, but always check this in the owner’s manual or on the old bulb itself. It is advisable to replace both headlights at the same time, as if one bulb fails, there is a good chance the other will fail soon too. Always keep a spare bulb in the car, so you don’t face any surprises whilst on the road.
Preparation: instruction booklet and lamp type
The most important step before you start is to consult your car’s owner’s manual, as the procedure varies considerably from model to model. Check which bulb size you need and which parts may need to be removed to access the headlamp. In many modern cars, there are components in front of the headlamp housing that need to be removed first, which makes the job more complicated. If you have little experience and there is a lot to dismantle, it is wiser to have the bulb replaced at a garage. It is always best to have xenon bulbs replaced by a professional due to the high voltage in the system.
Replacing a headlamp: step-by-step guide
Do you have the correct bulb and the instruction booklet to hand? If so, follow these steps:
- Open the bonnet and locate the rear of the headlamp housing; if necessary, use a torch to see the parts clearly;
- Unplug the power lead from the old light;
- Remove the retaining clip or retaining spring that holds the light in place;
- Carefully remove the old bulb from the housing;
- Fit the new bulb in the same position – the headlamp only fits one way, so do not force it;
- Refit the retaining hook or spring clip and reconnect the plug;
- Start the car and switch on the lights to check that the bulb is working;
If the car does not recognise the new bulb, switch off the lights, switch off the car completely (including locking the doors), wait a few seconds and start it again. If the bulb still does not work, check the fuse that supplies power to the headlamp.
Common mistakes when replacing
The most common mistake is touching the glass of the new bulb with bare fingers. Oil from your skin causes black deposits to form on the glass as soon as the bulb heats up, which reduces its brightness and shortens its lifespan. You should therefore always hold the bulb by its metal base or use a clean cloth. Another common mistake is not fitting the retaining clip back on properly, which causes the bulb to vibrate and break more quickly. After fitting, always check that the bulb is securely in place and does not move. Don’t forget to replace both headlights at the same time, so that you have an even level of brightness on both sides.
Need headlights or lighting? Japoto is here to help
At Japoto, you’ll find headlamps, lamps and lighting components for Japanese and Korean brands, with over 70,000 items in stock. Not sure which bulb is right for your car? Get in touch contact or send an email directly to info@japoto.nl.