🔧 Headlight Bulbs - Bulb Replacement

This covers replacing the front headlight bulbs on your Prius V, one side at a time, then repeating on the other side. The job is straightforward, but access is tight, so careful handling keeps the new bulbs from failing early.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the lights off and remove the key/fob before starting.
• Let the bulbs cool completely before touching them.
• Do not touch the glass of a halogen bulb with bare fingers; skin oil can shorten bulb life.
• If your car has any factory HID or LED headlamp parts, do not open those modules unless the bulb is serviceable.
• No battery disconnect is required for standard bulb replacement.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• Ratchet
• Short extension
• Flat-blade screwdriver
• Trim clip removal tool
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Low beam headlight bulb - Qty: 2
• Glove-friendly bulb handling wipes - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Turn the headlight switch to OFF.
• Open the hood and make sure the lamps are cool.
• Work one side at a time.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the hood and clear access

• Use the hood release inside the cabin, then lift the hood and secure it.
• If needed, use a 10mm socket and ratchet to remove any upper cover or intake duct that blocks the headlamp rear access.
• Keep removed clips in a small tray.

Step 2: Remove the rear bulb access cover

• Reach behind the headlamp housing and twist off the round dust cover by hand.
• If it is stuck, use a flat-blade screwdriver gently at the edge.
• Set the cover aside clean and dry.

Step 3: Disconnect the bulb

• Unplug the electrical connector from the bulb.
• Release the bulb retaining spring or lock by hand.
• On tight connectors, use a flat-blade screwdriver carefully to help release the tab.

Step 4: Remove the old bulb

• Pull the old bulb straight out of the headlamp housing.
• Do not twist the glass portion.
• Note the bulb’s tab position before removing it.

Step 5: Install the new bulb

• Use gloves and hold the new bulb by the base only.
• Line up the locating tabs and insert the bulb straight into the housing.
• Reinstall the retaining spring or lock until it clicks or seats fully.
• Reconnect the electrical connector firmly.

Step 6: Reinstall the cover and repeat on the other side

• Put the dust cover back on and twist it fully closed by hand.
• Reinstall any ducting or covers removed earlier using the 10mm socket and ratchet.
• Repeat Steps 2 through 5 on the other headlight.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the low beams on and confirm both sides light up.
• Check the beam pattern against a wall to make sure both lamps point evenly.
• If one side does not work, recheck the connector and bulb seating.
• Dispose of the old bulbs safely.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: ₹2,500-₹6,000 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: ₹800-₹2,500 (parts only)

You Save: ₹1,700-₹3,500 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run ₹2,000-₹4,500/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 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.