Why did my new bulb burn out fast?

The most common cause is touching the glass with bare fingers. Skin oils create hot spots. Always handle halogen bulbs by the base or with gloves.

Should I replace both sides at once?

It's a good idea — bulbs age at a similar rate, so the other side is often not far behind, and matched bulbs keep brightness even.

Home › DIY Guides › How to Replace a Headlight Bulb

Electrical · Beginner · 15–20 minutes · Updated June 1, 2026

A burned-out headlight is a safety issue and an easy ticket. On many cars you can swap the bulb from inside the engine bay in under 20 minutes.

Don't touch the glass of a halogen bulb with bare fingers — skin oils create hot spots that shorten its life.

Confirm which bulb is out
Turn on the headlights and identify the dead side. Check your manual for the correct bulb type for low beam, high beam, or both.
Access the bulb
Open the hood and find the back of the headlight housing. Some cars need a cover, air box, or washer bottle moved for access.
Disconnect the wiring
Unclip the electrical connector from the back of the bulb.
Remove the old bulb
Release the retaining clip or twist the bulb base counter-clockwise, then pull the old bulb straight out.
Install the new bulb
Holding the new bulb by its base only, insert it and lock it in place. Do not touch the glass with bare skin.
Reconnect and test
Plug the connector back in and turn on the lights to confirm the new bulb works before closing everything up.

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Why did my new bulb burn out fast?: The most common cause is touching the glass with bare fingers. Skin oils create hot spots. Always handle halogen bulbs by the base or with gloves.
Should I replace both sides at once?: It's a good idea — bulbs age at a similar rate, so the other side is often not far behind, and matched bulbs keep brightness even.