How to Replace a Car's Sealed Beam Headlight

Replacing your car's sealed beam headlight is a very simple process that can be done in a few minutes with some basic tools. These sealed beam headlights are common in many of today's vehicles and contain both the low and high beam filaments.

Step 1 - Disconnect Battery Cables

Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable from the terminal. Set it aside in a safe place away from any metal.

Step 2 - Remove Rim Around Headlight

Locate the screws that hold the outside rim around the headlight to the frame. Remove these screws and lift away this rim.

Step 3 - Unscrew Retaining Screw

Most sealed beam headlights are held in place with one or two retaining screws. Locate this and loosen it up. Remove the screw and set it aside in a safe place.

Step 4 - Pull Headlight Out

The headlight is also held in place with a small electrical terminal that is plugged into a harness. This may be hidden behind a plastic shroud. Gently pull on the headlight until it comes out.

Step 5 - Replace Sealed Beam Headlight

Place the new headlight into its position and push the electrical terminal into its housing. Slide the headlight into place and line up the hole for the retaining screw. Secure the headlight and replace the rim. Connect the battery cable and test the new headlight.