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Headlight Replacement
Typical Cost: Low - Medium
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 Hours due to part availability
What do headlights do?
Headlights are the units themselves that the bulbs fit into to light the way forward in poor visibility and darkness
How does a headlight work and what are the components?
Headlights are generally sealed units, with a clear front lens, reflective backing and an aperture that the headlamp bulb fits into. The unit’s are secured to the vehicle’s bodywork and are then aligned to point in the correct direction so as to maximise their ability to light the way forward but not dazzle oncoming road users.
Typical symptoms that require a headlight to be replaced.
- You notice there is a vibration in the lighting (sign of a broken bracket etc).
- The lighting is no longer as bright as it used to be, which could be down to a deterioration in the reflective surfaces, but also that the lens has become ingrained with dirt (also see Headlight Cleaning)
- There is visible damage to the lens, such as impact damage, cracking etc
What happens during a headlight replacement?
Replacing headlights is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Check the condition of the headlight unit.
- Remove the unit and replace it with the new one.
- Remove a number of elements of the vehicle's bodywork to access the retaining screws. This could mean removing the front bumper for example.
- Align the lights as well as possible, but if having this done by a mobile mechanic, you may need to run the car into an mot centre for example to have them precisely aligned.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your headlight to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the headlight part
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Headlight replacement (driver side)
Headlight replacement (passenger side)
How much does it cost to have a headlight replaced?
The cost of a headlight replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Only the lens/glass is cracked, do I have to replace the whole unit?
As the vast majority of headlights are sealed units, they are replaced as a whole.
Are the headlights aligned as part of the work
If this is being done in the workshop, then yes they are. If having it done mobile, the mechanic will align the lights as well as possible, but you may need to run the car into an mot centre for example to have them precisely aligned.
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the headlight doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.
Associated repairs
Headlamp bulb replacement - one
Headlamp bulbs replacement (both)
Headlamp alignment check & adjust
Headlamp bulb replacement - low beam (one)
Headlamp bulbs replacement - low beam (both)
Headlamp bulb replacement - high beam (one)
Headlamp bulbs replacement - high beam (both)
Fog lamp replacement - front
Side repeater lamp replacement (one)