How to Identify Bulb Numbers for Headlamp Replacement in Cars

Car headlamps or headlights are a vital part of vehicle safety. Driving with a headlight burned out is against the law so replacing the burnt bulb is critical. Identify the headlight bulb's part number to begin the quick replacement process.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Lift the hood of your car and find the back of the headlight. Most headlights have their part number etched the back or side of the bulb. You may need to pull out the old bulb to see the number.

2. Look in the car's owner's manual. All car owner's manuals have a list of part numbers for replacement head, tail and interior lights. This list is generally located in the maintenance section of the manual.

3. Visit an auto parts store. Auto parts stores, such as Auto Zone, have databases they use to look up the make and model of your car to find the correct headlight bulb number.

Tips & Warnings

• Some replacement headlights come with the entire light and case. Other models are only the bulb itself.
• All major manufactures of replacement headlight bulbs use the same part numbers. This cuts down on confusion.
• Never replace a headlight with the wrong number bulb.

Resources

• Find the headlight bulb number for your car.