How Much It Costs to Fix a Headlight Assembly

For most mainstream cars in the U.S., fixing a headlight assembly typically runs about $150 to $1,200 per side, depending on whether you’re replacing a bulb, restoring a lens, repairing wiring or modules, or swapping the entire assembly; luxury and advanced LED/matrix systems can climb to $2,000–$4,000+ per side. Costs hinge on the problem, the vehicle, parts (OEM vs. aftermarket vs. used), and labor time, which varies from quick bulb swaps to bumper-off replacements that require calibration.

What “Fixing a Headlight Assembly” Can Mean

“Fixing” can be as simple as a new bulb or as involved as replacing the entire headlight housing and programming control modules. Understanding what’s actually failing will narrow the cost range dramatically.

Here are the common repair paths you might encounter, from least to most involved, with typical U.S. price ranges per side including parts and labor where applicable.

• Bulb replacement: $20–$60 (halogen); $100–$250 (HID/Xenon D-series); $90–$250 (LED retrofit bulbs where applicable)
• Lens restore/polish (both headlights): $75–$200 professionally; DIY kits $15–$30
• Aiming/adjustment: $20–$75; sometimes bundled into other work
• Wiring/connector repair: $100–$300
• Ballast/igniter/control module (HID/LED): $150–$600 parts; $75–$250 labor
• Leveling/AFS sensor replacement: $150–$400 parts and labor
• Full headlight assembly replacement (halogen): $250–$700 per side (aftermarket) or $400–$1,200 (OEM)
• Full assembly replacement (HID/LED): $500–$1,800 per side (aftermarket/OE-equivalent) or $900–$2,500+ (OEM)
• Advanced matrix/adaptive LED units (luxury models): $1,500–$4,000+ per side (OEM) plus potential coding/calibration

Your final invoice depends on which of these items apply to your car and whether multiple components failed together (for example, water intrusion causing module and bulb failure).

Typical Price Ranges by Vehicle and System

Different lighting technologies carry different parts and labor costs. The ranges below reflect common outcomes for one side unless noted.

The following list compares common system types and what owners can expect to pay for complete fixes.

• Older halogen systems (economy/compact cars): $150–$500 for common fixes; $250–$900 for full assembly with labor
• HID/Xenon systems (mid-2000s–late-2010s): $250–$900 for bulb/ballast issues; $700–$1,800 for full assembly
• Modern LED reflector/projector (mainstream 2018+): $300–$1,200 for minor/module issues; $800–$2,000 for full assembly
• Adaptive/matrix LED (premium/luxury): $600–$1,500 for minor/module issues; $1,500–$4,000+ for full assembly plus coding/aiming
• Trucks/SUVs with LED signature/DRL: $400–$1,400 for partial repairs; $1,000–$2,500+ for full assemblies

In practice, halogen units are cheaper to fix, while integrated LED or matrix systems push costs higher due to sealed housings, proprietary modules, and calibration steps.

Labor, Diagnostics, and Why Some Jobs Cost More

Labor time varies widely. Many late-model cars require bumper cover removal to access the headlight, and adaptive systems may need coding or aiming afterward.

Below are common labor-related factors that influence your final bill.

• Labor rates: ~$90–$200/hr at independent shops; ~$150–$250/hr at dealerships in high-cost metro areas
• Book time: ~0.3–0.7 hr for simple bulb access; 1.0–2.5 hrs for bumper-off assembly replacement; some models 3–4+ hrs
• Diagnostics: $50–$150 to scan/trace faults (may be waived if you approve repairs)
• Aiming/calibration: $20–$150 depending on equipment and if advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are involved

If the bumper must come off or coding is required, even a straightforward replacement can quickly exceed $500 in combined parts and labor.

OEM vs. Aftermarket vs. Used

Parts choice has the biggest impact on the price you pay. Safety, fitment, and legal compliance (DOT/SAE markings in the U.S.) should guide your decision alongside budget.

The pros and cons below outline how each option affects cost and results.

• OEM (dealer): Best fit and performance; highest cost; often necessary for advanced LED/matrix units
• Aftermarket (new): Lower price; quality varies—look for reputable brands and DOT/SAE compliance
• OE-equivalent/refurbished: Good balance of cost and quality for common models
• Used/salvage: Cheapest; risk of haze, broken tabs, or prior moisture; verify part numbers and options (AFS/LED signatures)

For complex systems, cutting corners can backfire—modules may not communicate, and beam patterns can be unsafe or illegal if optics differ.

Common Add-ons and Hidden Costs

Beyond the main repair, a few extras can appear on the estimate, especially if damage or age-related wear is involved.

Watch for these line items and ask for an itemized breakdown.

• New retainers, brackets, seals, or tabs: $10–$80
• Moisture remediation or vent service: $30–$120
• Fender liner clips/fasteners after bumper removal: $5–$25
• Shop supplies and fees: $10–$40

These small charges add up but are often necessary to ensure the new assembly stays secure and moisture-free.

DIY vs. Professional Service

If you’re comfortable with hand tools, you can save on labor. But be realistic—incorrect installation or aiming can impair visibility and safety.

Consider the following when deciding whether to DIY.

• DIY-friendly: Halogen bulb swaps, lens restoration kits, simple aiming on vehicles with easy-access adjusters
• Professional recommended: HID/LED module diagnosis, bumper-off assembly replacement, coding/AFS calibration, severe wiring damage
• Tooling needs: Torx/metric sockets, trim tools, scan tool for some coding, torque specs, aiming board or level surface

A hybrid approach—buying your own parts and paying a shop for installation—can balance cost and quality, if your shop allows it.

How to Save Money (Without Compromising Safety)

A few strategies can reduce costs while keeping beam quality and reliability intact.

Use these tips to manage your budget effectively.

• Get 2–3 quotes: Compare dealer vs. independent specialty shops
• Match part numbers: Ensure compatibility for trims with AFS/LED signatures
• Consider quality aftermarket or refurbished units for non-advanced systems
• Replace in pairs for bulbs to maintain consistent brightness and color
• Check insurance: Collision/comprehensive may cover accident or vandalism damage (minus deductible)
• Prevent future failures: Fix cracked lenses and seals to keep moisture out

The right part and shop can cut the bill by hundreds while preserving performance and legality.

Quick Scenario Estimates

Halogen Bulb Burned Out

Parts $10–$30; labor $0–$60; total $20–$90. Many owners can DIY in minutes.

HID Bulb + Ballast on a Mid-2010s Sedan

Bulb $60–$120; ballast $150–$300; labor 1.0–1.5 hrs; total $300–$650.

LED Headlight Assembly on a 2020+ Crossover

Assembly $700–$1,400 (OEM); labor 1.5–2.5 hrs; aiming $20–$75; total $1,000–$1,900.

Adaptive/Matrix LED on a Luxury SUV

Assembly $1,800–$3,500; coding/aiming $75–$200; labor 2–3 hrs; total $2,200–$4,200+.

Lens Yellowing/Haze

Professional restoration $75–$200 (both sides); replacement often not required unless lenses are crazed or cracked.

When Replacement Is the Better Call

Sometimes replacing the entire unit is the safest and most economical long-term fix, especially if the housing is compromised.

Use the following indicators to decide between repair and replacement.

• Cracked or leaking housing causing repeat moisture and module failures
• Severely crazed or UV-damaged lens beyond restoration
• Broken mounting tabs leading to misalignment and shake
• Non-serviceable sealed LED boards with multiple dead segments

In these cases, a new or quality refurbished assembly prevents recurring issues and restores correct beam pattern.

Regional and Timing Considerations

Prices vary by region and supply. Post-collision demand or supply chain tightness can raise part costs, especially for new model years and advanced LED units.

Keep in mind the following market realities.

• High-cost metros often have higher labor rates
• Used assemblies may be scarce for newer models
• Winter salt and UV-heavy climates accelerate lens degradation

If time allows, sourcing parts ahead of the appointment or considering reputable refurbished units can mitigate availability spikes.

Bottom Line

Expect $150–$1,200 per side for typical headlight assembly fixes on mainstream cars, with advanced LED/matrix systems reaching $2,000–$4,000+. Accurate diagnosis—bulb, module, wiring, or full housing—plus smart part selection (OEM vs. aftermarket vs. refurbished) are the biggest levers on cost. Labor ranges with access complexity and any needed coding or aiming.

Summary

Fixing a headlight assembly can cost as little as $20 for a simple halogen bulb or exceed $4,000 for advanced adaptive LED units. Most everyday repairs fall between $150 and $1,200 per side. Your exact price depends on the lighting technology, whether the entire assembly or just a component needs attention, parts choices, and labor time—including any bumper removal, diagnostics, and calibration. Obtain multiple quotes, verify part compatibility, and don’t skimp on safety-critical optics and aiming.

How much will a mechanic charge to change a headlight?

The average cost for a Headlight Bulb Replacement is between $151 and $201. Labor costs are estimated between $61 and $90 while parts are priced between $89 and $111. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

Are headlights expensive to fix?

On average, headlight replacement costs can range from as little as $30 to over $1,000. The cost may vary depending on labor costs, headlight housing, or headlight assemblies. Understanding these factors can help you budget more effectively and make informed decisions about maintaining your vehicle’s lighting system.

Can AutoZone fix your headlights?

Will AutoZone change my headlight bulb? For bulbs purchased at AutoZone that are straightforward to change, an associate can assist you. For more complex types, we can help you find a Preferred Shop to install it for you.

Can I replace the whole headlight assembly?

The answer is yes. The headlamp assembly on your car can be replaced. Now, whether *you* can replace it depends on how mechanically inclined you are and what kind of tools you have in your garage. You might not need any special tools but you might need tools that are commonly not found in most general toolboxes.