Q: How many Ford drivers does it take to change a lightbulb? A: One. And that’s you. Learn how to change a front light bulb like a professional.
If a bulb fails on your Ford, it’s more than just annoying: it can compromise your safety.
So, being able to change a bulb in your main beam, dip beam or indicator light is a valuable skill. And in this step-by-step guide you’ll learn it.
How to change a headlight bulb? By the end of this short video, you’ll be able to do it like a pro.
Before you start, you’ll need a Torx Tx30 screwdriver. A standard flat-head screwdriver will also work. You’ll need a Ph2 Phillips screwdriver, too.
- First, make sure your handbrake’s on and your ignition’s off.
- For your safety, wait around 10 minutes for the engine to cool down. This allows for the fan to stop working, too.
- Now open the bonnet. And make sure you secure it safely with the strut.
- Go to the light you need to fix. Find the first screw at the front.
- TOP TIP: Use your fingers to gently lift the surrounding plastic trim up. This makes it easier to remove the screw.
- Undo the screw with your Phillips screwdriver.
- Next, undo the second screw at the front with your Torx screwdriver.
- TOP TIP: To avoid losing or dropping your tools, put them in the air vent tray by the windscreen.
- Finally, undo the screw at the back.
- Carefully pull the light up and off the white mounting point clip.
- At the back, there’s an electrical connector.
- Squeeze the clips and pull it out.
- Now, the light will come completely away.
- TOP TIP: To protect your paintwork, ask someone to hold the headlamp for you.
- Place the headlamp carefully on a flat, secure surface.
- You’ll see three bulb covers
- The MAIN BEAM is the middle one. It has a large rubber cover.
- Pull off the cover.
- Remove the electrical connector.
- Turn the bulb anti-clockwise to remove it.
- Screw the new bulb in clockwise to secure it.
- TOP TIP: Try not to touch the glass. Fingerprints can shorten the life of the bulb.
- Put the electrical connector back on. And reposition the rubber cover.
- Now remove the DIP BEAM cover.
- Remove the electrical connector. Squeeze both sides and pull the connector off.
- Now remove the bulb through the connector.
- TOP TIP: Your Ford Dealer can supply the bulb that’s right for your vehicle.
- Push the new bulb on to the connector.
- Now, put the electrical connector back in place. You’ll feel it click into position.
- Replace the rubber cover.
- Now for the INDICATOR.
- Take the grey cover off, by turning it anti clockwise.
- Twist the electrical connector anti-clockwise.
- Put the new bulb into the electrical connector and put it back in the main unit.
- To put the lighting unit back in, reposition the headlamp unit. Make sure it goes under the bumper tab.
- Push the main connector back in until it clicks.
- Carefully align the headlamp with the bodywork.
- Gently push it into position.
- Now put the screws back in. Start with the two Torx screws.
- The final screw is the Phillips one. You should have the screw slightly out.
- Pop the whole fitting into the hole.
- Gently screw it all the way in.
- Close the bonnet.
- TOP TIP: If you’re uncertain about your headlight alignment, your Ford Dealer will check it for you.
That’s how easy it is to change a bulb in your Ford’s front lights. But if there’s anything you’re not sure about, you can always refer to your Owner’s Manual, or simply contact your Ford Dealer.
And if you find this video useful, check out the others in our ‘How to…’ series: it’s designed to help you keep your Ford in top condition and make best use of its many features.
