How to Change a Car Light Bulb

Driving safety begins with communication between drivers on the road. This is accomplished through the use running lights, headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. These lights allow other drivers to anticipate and react to your actions on the road. Because of this, ensuring that all your car lights work properly is a crucial aspect of driver safety.

Maintaining Car Lights

First, you will need to examine your car lights for proper function. You will need:

  1. A location to park your vehicle
  2. Your owner’s manual
  3. A second person to help

One person will remain in the driver seat in order to turn lights on and off. The second person will examine the lights from the exterior. Find a parking spot that allows enough room for someone to walk around the car. Put the car in park with emergency/hand brake engaged.

  • Headlights. Turn headlights on and examine that both sides are working properly. Test both high and low beams. Turn headlights off.
  • Front & rear turn signals. Engage the left turn signal and verify that it is blinking in both the front and rear of the car. Engage the right turn signal and verify that both front and rear sides are blinking.
  • Reverse lights (located in the rear of the car). With your foot firmly on the break move the shift to reverse position and examine both lights to ensure they are one. Move shift back to park position.

Removing a Car Light Bulb

How ot Change a Car Light BulbBefore removing a car light bulb, follow these safety precautions:

  • Turn off the car
  • Avoid the rain, work in a dry environment
  • Disconnect the car battery
  • Use gloves when handling the light bulbs

Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on accessing the light sockets specific to your car. Alternatively, you can find instructions by contacting your dealership’s repair center or from a third party repair guide like Haynes or Chilton. You can also find owner manuals by visiting a local auto parts store or public library.

Purchasing a Car Light Bulb

A model number can be found printed on the side of the light bulb you remove. You can take the model number and/or light bulb to an auto part store where someone can assist you with your purchase. If a model number is unknown, consult your owner’s manual.

Replacing a Car Light Bulb

Each car has a specific method for replacing a light bulb. Some designs are complex and require multiple steps along with the removal of the entire lens assembly, but simpler designs also exist. Consult your owner’s manual or repair guide for the method appropriate to your vehicle.

The standard configuration for lens assemblies allow you to remove a bulb by pushing down it, rotating it counterclockwise, and pulling it out. The bulbs are fragile and should be handled with a glove or cloth.

Commonly, car light bulbs will have two nipples on either side or two tabs on the bulb assembly. Align the new bulb so that it can be inserted into its socket without force and rotate clockwise until it snaps into a secure position. Reference your owner’s manual for proper instructions on reattaching the lens assembly.

Back on the Road

After the new light bulb is installed, follow the maintenance instructions above to ensure it’s working properly.

Car light maintenance is an important part of keeping your car safe and should be conducted on a regular basis.

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