How to Change Out Your Headlight Bulbs for LED Lights

If you’ve decided to upgrade your headlights to the energy-saving powerhouses of LED bulbs, here are 8 steps to do this all on your own. Keep in mind, if you’re at all concerned about the process, consult a professional for assistance from choosing your lights to installing them.

All cars are suitable for LED conversion and the payoff is the road illumination which provides increased safety while driving at night. To give you an idea of the lighting increase, an average factory halogen bulb has an output of 1,000 lumens while an LED bulb has an output of 3,200 lumens (more than double the brightness). Reference your owner’s manual to locate the objects referenced in this article.

1. Find the right headlight bulb for your specific vehicle

First thing’s first - find a reputable website database and do your homework for the type of bulb required for the make and model of your car. One option is to visit the Osram/Sylvania online resource where you type in your car information and learn what headlights were installed in your car. You’ll find you either have a single or dual beam bulb. If your make and model do not render viable search results, consult your owner’s manual.

2. Buy an LED conversion kit

Once you know what type of bulb your car requires, you are prepared to pick out the corresponding LED conversion kit. You can find these kits online or with the assistance of an automotive professional. Once you have your kit, fully inspect it for the necessary parts. Your kit should include two LED headlights, two ballasts, and appropriate wiring.

3. Locate headlight bulbs and remove them

Your car should not be powered at all when unplugging your headlights, so, make sure your car is parked, the engine is off, and the keys are nowhere near the ignition. Pop the hood to find your headlight bulbs and unplug the plastic wiring connector from the bulb. If this is your first time changing your headlights, keep in mind the plastic connector may need the gentle prying of a flat screwdriver to disconnect. There may also be a metal clip you have to remove before you can successfully pull out your headlight. Store your halogen bulbs in a safe place should you require them in the future.

4. Install LEDs

Be careful not to touch the LED bulb with your bare fingers as you install it into the headlight socket. Gently twist the base of the bulb clockwise to secure it.

5. Connect the LED ballast

One end of your ballast wiring connects to the new bulb and the other to the original wiring harness. Follow the instructions included with your kit to match up the wiring correctly.

6. Check the LED throw

With the installation of one light, turn on your headlights and check the cut off position. You don’t want to blind oncoming traffic, so, you may need to adjust the direction of your new, bright headlights.  The alignment screws may require modification and your owner’s manual may be the best resource for locating and changing settings. Aside from verification of successful installment, take a photo of the light produced by your halogen lamp versus your LED lamp against a plain surface (i.e. garage door, fence, etc.). You’ll know how you really feel about your new lights when you can see the comparison.

7. Secure ballasts

Get out some double-sided tape or plastic tie wraps to secure your ballasts. Keep the ballasts away from excessive heat, rattling, or sources of moisture. One suggestion is to mount ballasts on the back of the headlight containment.

Repeat steps 3 - 7 with the second headlamp and then take a test drive! If you take your time to  complete your installation and verify your satisfaction with the results, there will be no road too dark for you drive on!  Follow your kit instructions and you’ll drive away safely into the night before you know it!