YOUR GUIDE 
TO DIY CAR LIGHT 
INSTALLATION  

How to replace your headlight

Got a burned-out headlight? Follow these simple steps to carry out a headlight bulb replacement. The process varies a little depending on the year, make and model of your car, so make sure you’ve got your owner’s manual to refer to:

1. Select the headlight you need
   You can identify the type of bulb required in your owner’s manual. It will give you the exact specification. Once you find it, make sure choose a quality brand. No matter which type of bulb you need, Champion is likely to have it. 


2. Locate the headline holder
   

   

   Make sure your car and lights are switched off. Then, open the bonnet (hood) and locate the back of the headlight. You can access it from inside the front of the engine bay, aligned with the headlight. 


3. Remove the back
   You will see some wires (usually 3) attached to the bulb holder. Normally, these are held in place by a clip, clamp or screw, depending on your vehicle. You’ll need to pull/push or unscrew this to be able to remove the bulb from its socket and connected wires. 
   Depending on your car, you may have to remove the entire headlight. Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.


4. Fit the new bulb
   You should wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the new bulb – as you don’t want it to be oily, as it may affect the lifetime of the bulb. You should never touch the bulb with your bare fingers. Then, place your new bulb into the headlight compartment and tighten/clip it up.


5. Check your headlight
   Turn on your car to check the new headlights are working. You’re now ready to go!


6. In case of Xenon (HID) headlights seek the help of a professional installer as high voltages are involved.

How to replace your brake light

Driving with a faulty brake light is dangerous, because other drivers can’t anticipate your behaviour. You may also get stopped by the police! If your brake light bulb is broken, you can carry out the car bulb replacement yourself.  It only takes a few minutes:

1. Select the brake light you need
   You can identify the type of bulb required in your owner’s manual. It will give you the exact specification. Once you find it, make sure choose a quality brand. No matter which type of bulb you need, Champion is likely to have it.


2. Open the boot (trunk)
   Make sure your car and lights are switched off. Then, open up your boot. Most cars have the screw to the brake light inside the boot, behind the light. However, you may find it underneath the edge of the carpet in the boot, or even outside. 


3. Access the old bulb
   Unscrew the screw (or several screws) and pull out the housing which contains the bulb. You will probably need a screwdriver for this, but on some models, you can just undo a knob with your fingers.


4. Remove the old bulb
   Take out the bulb holder and twist or pull the bulb to get it out. 


5. Install the new bulb
   Insert the bulb into the socket and pop back the assembly – remembering to screw it up.
   As you can see, bulb installation is not too difficult a job. As long as you make sure your car and lights are switched off, take your time with clips or clasps and are careful when handling the new bulb, you will be able to replace your driving lights successfully. 

The content contained in this article is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.