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Does AutoZone Help Change Headlights?

When your headlight goes out, it is important to get it replaced quickly. It is one of the most important safety features in your vehicle. Additionally, driving with a non-functioning headlight is illegal in most areas and could result in a ticket. Fortunately, the process of changing a headlight is relatively simple. But, can you head to AutoZone for help?

Does AutoZone Change Headlights?

The answer to this question is a little complicated. The short version is that no, AutoZone does not change car headlights as an official service. However, the staff at many AutoZone stores are helpful and many love cars. So, you may be able to get some help if you ask nicely. Additionally, the type of vehicle and what you need to replace (the bulb or the full light) will affect the answer.

Finding a Headlight Bulb

Even if you aren’t able to get your headlight replaced at AutoZone, you can buy a headlight. It is actually surprisingly easy to fix your headlights yourself on most vehicles. The first step is to purchase the right headlight bulb or assembly.

AutoZone makes this very easy with a free VIN lookup tool that will match your model, trim and year to the right headlights (and other parts). You can also look up your vehicle by make, model and year. Additionally, if you go into your local auto parts store, the staff will be able to help you find the right part. Other stores offer many of the same lookup tools, but AutoZone’s VIN lookup is super easy to use.

Changing Your Bulb

The process of changing your headlight depends on your vehicle. However, it can typically be done in a few steps with only basic tools at most.

Start by opening the engine bay and located the rear of the headlights. On many vehicles, there will be a cable attached to the bulb. Simply turn the cable and bulb together roughly a quarter turn. Then lift it all out and remove the current bulb. Put your newly purchased bulb on the cable and screw everything back in.

On some vehicles, you may need to remove a casing behind the headlight to access it. Some bulb holders also don’t allow you to lift the cable fully out. These can be a little more fiddley but are still simple to change.

Certain vehicles need the entire headlight to be changed. To do this, the process is similar. However, instead of taking out the bulb, you will loosen the screws retaining the headlight and lift it out. Then, simply put the new one in place, tighten the screws and plug it into the cable. This process should take only a few minutes even for beginners.

Learn More

Working on your vehicle can be a wonderfully rewarding experience. Once you know how to replace a headlight, you can learn about how to change your oil, perform a tune-up and much more. The benefits of learning are that you will save money on maintenance and that you can enjoy a deeper relationship with your vehicle. When you love your car or truck, it is worth it to work on it yourself.

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