Auto Repairs how to Change a Car Headlight
To change a car headlight is really not too difficult a task even for those with no prior experience, given they have a bit of patience and a few common tools. In modern cars there are basically two types of headlights - sealed beam headlights and composite headlights. Sealed beam headlights are the ones that are the larger square or round ones that have the lighting filament sealed inside of a large headlight. Composite headlights appear the same a sealed beam headlight from the car's exterior, but when the headlight burns out on a composite headlight only the filament is replaced. In either case, to change a car headlight you will need a number of screwdrivers of varying sizes and a socket set in order to complete the job.To change a car headlight that is a sealed beam headlight you must first remove the retaining ring that holds the headlight in place. This can be accomplished usually using a screwdriver, and care must be taken not to bend the retaining ring because it is usually just a thin piece of flexible metal. After the retaining ring is removed the headlight can be gently wiggled loose from it's plug housing in the same manner a lamp is unplugged from a wall socket in the home. To change a headlight the new headlight is plugged in and the retaining ring is replaced.To change a headlight that is of the composite type the car's hood must first be raised, as the filament is changed from inside the engine compartment. The filament holder assembly can be removed from the headlight lens housing by grasping it firmly and twisting it, usually counter-clockwise. The old filament bulb can be unplugged and the new one installed, and the holder assembly and lens housing reassembled to complete to job.It is important when you change a car headlight to check the headlight wiring for damage while the bulb is removed. It is also a good idea to spray the holder assembly lightly with an electric cleaner, and to use a small dab of dielectric grease on the plug connections when you change a car headlight to ensure a strong electrical connection. Caution must also be used when you change a car headlight not to alter the alignment of the headlight's beam direction by using too much force when removing and replacing the headlight. It is always a good idea when you change a car headlight to check the beam direction when the job is finished by parking in front of a garage door or wall and turning on the headlights.
