How to Replace a Headlight Bulb in a Chevy Cobalt

by Editorial Team

Chevrolet introduced the sporty new Cobalt to replace its predecessor in the subcompact category, the Cavalier, in 2004. Chevy Cobalt owners enjoy the fuel efficiency and performance of a Cobalt coupe or sedan. However, as with any car, even minor repairs can be expensive. Here's how you can save yourself a little cash by replacing a burnt-out headlight bulb on your Cobalt yourself.

Step 1

Set the parking brake and remove the keys from the ignition to ensure your Chevy Cobalt won't roll while you're replacing the headlight bulb.

Step 2

Open the hood by pulling the hood release latch located under the instrument panel on the driver's side of the car. Locate the secondary release latch on the front of the hood at the center, slightly towards the driver's side. Slide the latch to the left to release the hood and raise it.

Step 3

Locate the headlight assembly and remove the bolts by turning them counterclockwise. Set the bolts aside in a safe place, so you won't misplace them.

Step 4

Remove the plastic fasteners from the headlight assembly molding. Carefully pull back the front fascia, or molding. You may need an extra pair of hands to perform this slightly awkward task.

Step 5

Grab the headlight assembly and pull it towards the radiator at a slight angle to remove it. This should provide easier access to the headlight bulb and wiring harness.

Step 6

Lift the plastic locking tab on the wiring harness to disconnect the bulb base. Then, disconnect the wiring harness from the bulb socket and remove the black retainer by turning it counterclockwise.

Step 7

Disconnect the bulb socket by turning it counterclockwise. Remove the old bulb from the socket by firmly, but gently pulling it straight out.

Step 8

Replace the old bulb with a new 9007 LL halogen headlight bulb. Put your headlight assembly back together by reversing the steps when you disassembled it. Use 89 inch-lb torque when retightening the headlight assembly bolts.

More Articles

article divider
×