How to Replace LED Headlight Assemblies on a 2018-2021 Honda Odyssey (Both Sides) (Trim: Elite | Body: Mini Passenger Van)
Step-by-step bumper removal, tools/parts list, and headlight bolt torque specs for a clean install
How to Replace LED Headlight Assemblies on a 2018-2021 Honda Odyssey (Both Sides) (Trim: Elite | Body: Mini Passenger Van)
Step-by-step bumper removal, tools/parts list, and headlight bolt torque specs for a clean install for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
š§ Odyssey - Headlight āBulbā Replacement
On your Odyssey Elite, the main headlights are LED units, so there usually are no replaceable headlight bulbs. If the low beam/high beam is out, the repair is typically replacing the entire headlight assembly (left, right, or both).
Quick check (so I guide you correctly): Are you trying to fix the main low/high beam, or a front turn signal/parking bulb near the headlight? (Those are different parts.)
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 2.0-4.0 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Let the front end cool down before working near the radiator/fans.
- ā ļø Turn ignition OFF and keep the key fob away from the van.
- ā ļø Disconnect the negative battery cable if youāll unplug multiple front bumper connectors.
- ā ļø Your Odyssey has front sensors/camera equipmentāpull the bumper cover gently and do not yank wiring.
- ā ļø Support the bumper cover so it doesnāt scratch paint or tear tabs.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" ratchet
- 3" extension for ratchet
- Phillips screwdriver
- Plastic trim clip removal tool
- Pick tool
- Torque wrench (in-lb or low Nm range)
- Painterās tape
- Fender cover
- Work light
- Mechanicās gloves
- Safety glasses
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Left headlight assembly (LED type) - Qty: 1
- Right headlight assembly (LED type) - Qty: 1
- Front bumper cover push clips - Qty: 5-15
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
- Open the hood and apply painterās tape along the bumper/headlight edges to help prevent paint scratches.
- If you choose to disconnect the battery: use a 10mm socket to remove the negative terminal and isolate it so it canāt spring back.
- Lay out a blanket/cardboard to place the bumper cover on once itās loose.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the upper bumper fasteners
- Open the hood and locate the push-clips/fasteners along the top of the bumper cover.
- Use a plastic trim clip removal tool to pop the center pin up, then remove the clip.
- Tip: Put clips in a cup by location.
Step 2: Remove fender liner fasteners at both front corners
- Turn the front wheels to one side to access the opposite fender liner.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver and plastic trim clip removal tool to remove the liner screws/clips at the bumper corner.
- Repeat on the other side.
Step 3: Remove the lower bumper fasteners
- From underneath the front bumper, remove the lower clips/bolts.
- Use a 10mm socket with a 1/4" ratchet and 3" extension for any 10mm bolts.
Step 4: Release the bumper cover side retainers
- At each front corner, pull the bumper cover outward to release it from the side retainer.
- Use your hands and go slowlyādonāt pry hard with metal tools.
- Tip: A firm āpopā is normal.
Step 5: Disconnect bumper electrical connectors
- With the bumper loosened, reach behind and locate the electrical connectors (parking sensors/corner lamps, etc.).
- Use a pick tool only if needed to release a stubborn lock tab (gentle pressure).
- Support the bumper cover and place it on a blanket.
Step 6: Remove the headlight assembly mounting bolts
- Locate the headlight mounting bolts (top and side).
- Use a 10mm socket with a 1/4" ratchet and 3" extension to remove the bolts.
- Pull the headlight assembly straight forward to release the locating pins.
Step 7: Disconnect the headlight electrical connector
- Press the connector lock tab and unplug the main headlight connector.
- If the tab is tight, use a pick tool to help lift the lock carefully.
Step 8: Install the new headlight assembly
- Plug in the electrical connector until it clicks.
- Set the assembly into position, making sure the locating pins seat correctly.
- Install the mounting bolts by hand first, then tighten with a 10mm socket.
- Final tighten using a torque wrench: Torque to 9 NĀ·m (80 in-lbs).
Step 9: Reinstall the bumper cover
- Reconnect all bumper wiring connectors you unplugged.
- Align the bumper cover and press the corners back into the side retainers.
- Reinstall lower fasteners with a 10mm socket and clips with a plastic trim clip removal tool.
- Reinstall upper clips along the top of the bumper.
Step 10: Repeat for the other side (if replacing both)
- Use the same steps for the second headlight assembly.
ā After Repair
- If you disconnected the battery, reconnect it using a 10mm socket.
- Turn the ignition ON and verify: low beams, high beams, turn signals, and DRLs operate normally.
- Check that the bumper gaps are even and clips are fully seated.
- If a warning light appears for a front sensor/camera system, recheck every bumper connector you unplugged.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $900-$2,400 (parts + labor, both sides)
DIY Cost: $600-$1,900 (parts only, both sides)
You Save: $300-$500 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 2-4 hours.
šÆ 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.
Guide for Headlight Assembly replace for these Honda vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Honda Odyssey | LX | - | Mini Passenger Van |
| 2020 Honda Odyssey | LX | - | Mini Passenger Van |
| 2019 Honda Odyssey | LX | - | Mini Passenger Van |
| 2018 Honda Odyssey | LX | - | Mini Passenger Van |


















