Changing the headlight on a Honda Accord is a straightforward process that can save you both time and money. Whether your headlight has burned out or you simply want to upgrade to a brighter bulb, this guide on how to change headlight on honda accord will walk you through each step. Armed with a few basic tools and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to complete this task without the need for a professional mechanic.
What is a Headlight?
A headlight is an essential component of any vehicle that provides illumination for the road ahead. They are typically located at the front of the car and come in different types such as halogen, LED, or HID headlights. The headlights on your Honda Accord not only help you see while driving at night but also make your vehicle visible to other drivers on the road.
You may also notice that your headlights have a specific shape and size. This is because they are designed to fit perfectly in the headlight housing of your Honda Accord, providing a secure and stable fit.
How Often Should You Change Your Headlights?
Most manufacturers recommend changing your headlights every 2-3 years or every 40,000-60,000 miles. However, it’s important to regularly check and replace them if they burn out sooner. Driving with a burnt-out headlight not only decreases your visibility but also puts you at risk of getting a ticket, as it is considered a safety hazard.
If you notice that your headlights are dimmer than usual, it’s a good idea to check and potentially replace them. Over time, the brightness of headlights can decrease due to wear and tear, making it harder for you to see while driving at night or in low visibility conditions.
What You Will Need
To change the headlight on your Honda Accord, you will need the following tools:
New Headlight Bulb(S):
Make sure to purchase the correct type and size for your specific Honda Accord model.
Screwdriver:
You may need a Phillips or flathead screwdriver, depending on the type of headlight housing in your vehicle.
Latex Gloves:
These will help you handle the new bulb(s) without getting oils from your skin onto them, which can cause damage.
9 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Change Headlight on Honda Accord
Step 1: Park Your Car
Before you start, it’s crucial to ensure that your Honda Accord is parked on a flat, level surface and the engine is turned off. Engage the parking brake to prevent any vehicle’s accidental movement. This step not only ensures your safety but also provides a stable environment for you to work on changing the headlight. Make sure you have enough space around the front of the car to move freely and access the headlight housing without any obstructions.
Step 2: Locate the Headlight Housing.
Open the hood of your Honda Accord by pulling the hood release lever, usually located on the driver’s side under the dashboard. Once the hood is open, secure it with the prop rod. The headlight housing is typically found directly behind the headlight assembly at the front of the car. Depending on the model of your Accord, you may see one or two protective covers or caps on the backside of the headlight housing.
Carefully locate these covers, as you will need to remove them to access the headlight bulb. If you have trouble locating the headlight housing, refer to your vehicle’s manual for detailed diagrams and instructions.
Step 3: Remove the Protective Covers
To access the headlight bulb, you’ll need to remove the protective covers located on the backside of the headlight housing. These covers are usually secured by clips, screws, or a simple twist-and-lock mechanism. If your Honda Accord has clips, gently unclip them by pressing or pulling them as needed. For screw-secured covers, use a screwdriver to carefully remove the screws, making sure not to lose them. If the cover uses a twist-and-lock mechanism, rotate it counterclockwise to loosen it and then pull it off.
Once the protective covers are removed, you will have a clear view of the headlight bulb and its socket within the headlight housing. Handle the covers with care and set them aside in a safe place to avoid any damage or misplacement.
Step 4: Remove the Old Headlight Bulb
Now, it’s time to remove the old headlight bulb. Gently grasp the base of the bulb and twist it counterclockwise to loosen it from its socket. Then, carefully pull out the bulb from the socket. Avoid pulling on any wires that may be attached to the bulb as this can cause damage.
It’s important to note that some headlight bulbs are secured with a retaining clip or wire harness. If your Honda Accord has either of these, you will need to press or unclip them before removing the old bulb. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions on how to remove the bulb if this applies to you.
Step 5: Prepare the New Headlight Bulb
Before installing the new headlight bulb, put on a pair of latex gloves to avoid getting any oils from your skin onto the bulb. These oils can cause damage and affect the brightness of the bulb. Carefully unpack the new headlight bulb(s) from their packaging and inspect them for any damages or defects.
If everything looks good, proceed to handle and prepare the new bulb by holding it at its base (do not touch the glass part). If your Honda Accord has a retaining clip or wire harness, make sure to secure it before moving on to the next step.
Step 6: Insert the New Headlight Bulb
With your new headlight bulb(s) prepared, it’s time to insert them into the socket within the headlight housing. Carefully align the base of the bulb with the opening of its socket and gently push it in. When fully inserted, give it a slight twist clockwise to lock it in place.
Be careful not to touch any part of the bulb other than its base as this can cause damage or affect its performance. If you accidentally touch the glass part, make sure to clean it with rubbing alcohol before proceeding.
Step 7: Reattach the Protective Covers
Once the new headlight bulb is securely in place, it’s time to reattach the protective covers on the backside of the headlight housing. Begin by aligning the covers with their corresponding openings. If your Honda Accord’s covers have a twist-and-lock mechanism, place the cover in position and twist it clockwise until it is firmly secured. For screw-secured covers, line up the screw holes and carefully tighten the screws using a screwdriver. If your vehicle uses clips, ensure they snap back into place without forcing them.
Reattaching the protective covers is crucial to protect the headlight bulb from dust, moisture, and other environmental elements that could affect its performance. Make sure the covers are firmly secured and there are no gaps or loose ends. Once done, double-check everything to ensure the covers are properly attached before moving on to the next step.
Step 8: Test the New Headlight Bulb
Now that the installation is complete, it’s time to test your new headlight bulb(s). Start by turning on your Honda Accord and activating its headlights. If all goes well, you should see the new bulb(s) shining brightly. Check for any flickering or dimness, which could indicate a loose connection or improper installation.
If everything looks good, turn off your vehicle’s engine and headlights before proceeding to the final step.
Step 9: Clean Up and Secure Your Tools
Congratulations! You have successfully changed the headlight on your Honda Accord. Before closing the hood and hitting the road, take a few moments to clean up your workspace and securely store any tools you use. This will ensure they are readily available for future maintenance or repairs.
You can now confidently drive at night or in low-light conditions, knowing that your headlights are functioning properly. Regularly checking and replacing your headlight bulbs is essential for safe driving and maintaining the overall appearance of your vehicle.
By following these steps on how to change headlight on honda accord, you can easily replace a headlight on your Honda Accord without breaking the bank with professional installation fees. Remember to always refer to your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams before starting any maintenance tasks. Safe driving!
Conclusion
Changing the headlight on your Honda Accord is a manageable task if you follow the proper steps on how to change headlight on honda accord and exercise caution. By preparing the necessary tools, carefully removing the old bulb, and properly installing the new one, you can ensure your vehicle’s headlights are in optimal working condition. Not only does this DIY approach save you money on professional installation fees, but it also provides a sense of accomplishment as you maintain your vehicle.
Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines to avoid any mishaps. Regular maintenance, including headlight replacements, is crucial for safe driving and prolonging the life of your car. Drive safely, and enjoy the clear, bright visibility your new headlights provide!