🔧 Accord - Headlight Bulb Replacement

This job replaces the two main headlight bulbs (left and right). On your Accord, the bulbs install from behind the headlight housing in the engine bay, so you do not need to remove the bumper or headlight assembly.

Assumption: “Both headlight bulbs” = both low beam bulbs (most common). High beam bulb info is included in the steps as an option.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn headlights OFF and let bulbs cool 10+ minutes (hot glass can burn you).
• ⚠️ Do not touch the new bulb glass with bare fingers (skin oil can shorten bulb life).
• ⚠️ Support the hood securely and keep tools away from the battery terminals.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required, but keep the headlight switch OFF.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses
• 10mm socket
• 1/4" ratchet
• 3" extension for 1/4" ratchet
• Trim clip removal tool
• Small flashlight

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Low beam headlight bulb (H11) - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• High beam headlight bulb (9005) - Replace in pairs (optional) - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, shift to neutral, and set the parking brake.
• Turn the headlight switch to OFF and remove the key.
• Put on nitrile gloves (thin gloves that keep skin oil off the bulb).
• Match bulbs side-by-side before installing.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open access to the back of the headlights

• Open the hood and support it securely.
• Use a small flashlight to locate the rear of each headlight housing.
• On the passenger side, if the air intake snorkel blocks your hand, remove it:
  • Use a trim clip removal tool to pop up any push clips.
  • Use a 10mm socket, 1/4" ratchet, and 3" extension to remove the snorkel bolt(s).
  • Torque to 9 Nm (80 in-lbs) when reinstalling 10mm bolts.

Step 2: Remove the low beam bulb (H11) from one side

• Locate the low beam bulb socket (usually the larger rear bulb).
• Press the lock tab and unplug the electrical connector by hand.
• Rotate the bulb base counterclockwise about 1/4 turn, then pull the bulb straight out.
• Do not force it—re-check the twist direction.

Step 3: Install the new low beam bulb (H11)

• With nitrile gloves on, insert the new bulb into the housing (tabs must align).
• Rotate clockwise about 1/4 turn until it locks in place.
• Plug the electrical connector back on until it clicks.
• If you accidentally touch the glass, clean it with rubbing alcohol and let it dry.

Step 4: Repeat for the other headlight

• Do the same remove/install steps on the other side.
• Reinstall the air intake snorkel if removed:
  • Use a 10mm socket, 1/4" ratchet, and 3" extension.
  • Torque to 9 Nm (80 in-lbs)

Step 5 (Optional): Replace high beam bulbs (9005) if that’s what you meant

• Locate the high beam bulb socket (separate from low beam).
• Unplug the connector by hand, twist counterclockwise, and remove the old bulb.
• Install the new 9005 bulb (do not touch glass), twist clockwise to lock, then reconnect.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the headlights ON and verify both low beams work.
• Turn ON high beams to verify operation (if replaced).
• Check that both beams look similar in brightness and color (mismatched bulbs usually mean only one was replaced).
• Close the hood and take a short night drive to confirm the light pattern looks normal.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$180 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $30-$90 (parts only)

You Save: $50-$120 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1.0 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.