The average cost of replacing a car headlight ranges from about $110 to $470 for a simple bulb replacement. This can rise to over $4,400 if the entire LED (Light Emitting Diode), HID (High-Intensity Discharge), or laser headlight assembly needs to be replaced.
But is it really worth replacing your headlights?
And how can you tell when it’s time for a change?
In this guide, we’ll break down the headlight replacement cost, highlight the key signs your headlights are due for replacement, and explain why this repair is best left to the professionals.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Headlight Replacement Cost?
- Factors Affecting Headlight Replacement Costs
- Is It Worth Replacing Your Headlights?
- 5 Telltale Signs You Need a Headlight Replacement
- How Long Do Headlights Last?
- What Causes Your Headlight Bulbs to Fail?
- Can You Replace the Headlight Bulb Yourself?
Let’s get started!
How Much Does a Headlight Replacement Cost?
Based on the type of headlight your car features, your costs may fall into one of these categories:
1. Bulb Replacement
If your car allows replacing just the headlight bulb, the replacement can range between $110 and $470.
This includes:
- Parts:
- Halogen bulb: $10 to $20
- LED light bulb: $70 to $100+
- Xenon HID bulb: $50 to $300
- Labor cost: $100 to $170 per hour (typical service time is 5-10 minutes)
2. Headlight Conversion Kits
You can purchase a conversion kit to upgrade your halogen system to brighter LED or HID lights. Estimated costs include:
- HID conversion kit: $50 to $200
- LED conversion kit: $60 to $200
- Labor: $100 to $400 (usually takes 30 to 60 minutes)
NOTE: Always check with your mechanic or vehicle manufacturer before upgrading the headlight type to ensure your electrical system can support the change.
3. Headlight Assembly Replacement
In many modern vehicles, LED, HID, and laser lights are built into the entire headlight assembly. This means if one fails, you’ll have to replace the entire unit.
Here’s a headlight assembly replacement cost breakdown:
- Parts: $30 to $4,000+
- Labor cost: $100 to $400 (this too is a 30–60 minute job)
Factors Affecting Headlight Replacement Costs
Besides the type of replacement, here are some other factors that may affect your total costs:
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury and newer vehicles often use premium bulbs or integrated headlight assemblies, which are more expensive to replace than standard models.
- Bulb type: Halogen headlights are the most affordable but burn out the fastest. LED headlight bulbs last longer and require little maintenance. HID headlights produce brighter light but need more attention. Laser headlights are the most advanced and durable option, but also the most expensive ($150 to $1000+) and typically found in luxury vehicles.
NOTE: When choosing a car headlight bulb, ensure it matches the wattage and type of your old one. The additional cost of an upgrade is only worth it if you’re sure your car’s electrical system can handle it. - Number of headlights replaced: Changing both car headlights at once nearly doubles the parts cost, but since bulbs usually wear out together, it’s often recommended. Replacing them as a pair can also reduce labor costs.
- Repair complexity: In many modern vehicles, the headlight housing doesn’t just hold the headlight; it may also include turn signals, daytime running lights (DRLs), or parking lights. If that’s the case, your mechanic will replace the entire assembly instead of just one headlamp bulb, making the repair more time-consuming and labor-intensive.
- Part quality: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts cost more but guarantee compatibility. Aftermarket parts are usually cheaper, but their quality and durability can vary.
Is It Worth Replacing Your Headlights?
Yes, absolutely. Faded or dim lights reduce clarity and make your car harder to spot — a serious safety risk, especially during nighttime driving. Damaged headlights can also get you pulled over and fined.
Upgrading to newer halogen, HID, or LED headlight bulbs is also a smart choice. They provide increased brightness and better visibility, giving you more confidence behind the wheel.
Moreover, replacing both car headlights together ensures even lighting, making night driving safer and more reliable.
5 Telltale Signs You Need a Headlight Replacement
If you notice any of these symptoms, visit a mechanic to get your headlights replaced:
- Headlights keep flickering or appear unusually dim.
- Your headlight lens is cloudy or turning yellow.
- You struggle to see the road clearly in the dark.
- Bulbs burn out too often, even after replacement (indicating a problem with the headlamp assembly or wiring).
- Cracked or broken housing that lets in moisture and debris.
How Long Do Headlights Last?
The lifespan of your headlights can vary depending on the type of bulb installed:
- Halogen bulbs: 500 to 1,000 hours
- HID (Xenon) bulbs: 2,000 to 10,000 hours
- LED light bulbs: 30,000 to 50,000 hours
- Laser headlights: 20,000 hours or more
What Causes Your Headlight Bulbs to Fail?
Your headlights may wear out faster or stop working entirely due to:
- Vibration and bumps: Rough roads and potholes can shake the headlamp bulb, breaking its filament or loosening it in the socket.
- Incorrect installation: A poorly fitted bulb, or touching the glass with bare hands, can lead to overheating and early burnout.
- Age and use: Over time, heat and frequent use weaken the filament, causing the bulb to dim or fail.
- Electrical issues: Voltage spikes, faulty wiring, or corroded connectors can reduce power and shorten bulb life.
- Moisture and dirt: Cracks or leaks in the headlight housing let in water or dust, which corrode the bulb and block light.
- Overheating: Running bulbs for extended periods (especially halogen headlights) can cause them to overheat, shortening their lifespan.
Can You Replace the Headlight Bulb Yourself?
You can, but you shouldn’t. Replacing a headlight bulb may look simple, but it’s not always straightforward.
In some cars, you can reach the bulb easily, while in others, you may need to disassemble parts of the headlight assembly, which can be difficult without prior experience.
Headlight bulbs also get extremely hot and can cause burns if handled too soon. Even touching the glass with bare hands can leave oils and residue that shorten the bulb’s life or make it fail early.
To prevent damage to the bulb or assembly, it’s best to avoid DIY repair and let a professional handle the replacement.
Here’s a quick overview of how they’ll replace the headlight bulb:
- Park the car on a flat surface, engage the parking brakes, and disconnect the battery.
- Access the headlight.
- Disconnect the headlight wires from the light bulb holders.
- Remove the old headlight bulb by disengaging the locking tabs.
- Install the new bulb into the headlight holder and secure it in place.
- Turn on the ignition to test the new headlight.
Want to learn about the replacement process in detail?
Read our step-by-step guide on headlight bulb replacement.
See Clearly, Drive Confidently with AutoNation Mobile Service
Driving with dim or damaged headlights puts both you and others at risk. Whether it’s a simple bulb change or a headlight assembly replacement, it’s crucial to have the job done right.
With AutoNation Mobile Service, you get safe and professional automotive service right from your driveway — without the hassle of a shop visit. Every service is also backed by our 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty for extra peace of mind.
Book an appointment with us and we’ll take your headlights from dim to dazzling.