How much does it cost to replace a headlight on a Honda Fit

Expect to pay about $50–$180 per bulb at an independent shop (or $90–$240 at a Honda dealer) to replace a headlight bulb on a Honda Fit in the U.S. as of 2025; do‑it‑yourself bulb replacements typically cost $15–$60 in parts. Replacing the entire headlight assembly—needed if the housing is cracked, broken, or severely hazed—usually runs $250–$600 with aftermarket parts or $400–$900 with OEM parts, per side, installed. Prices vary by model year, parts quality, and local labor rates.

What you’re replacing: bulb vs. entire headlight assembly

“Headlight replacement” can mean swapping the burn‑out bulb or replacing the full headlamp housing. The cost difference is significant, so it helps to identify which job you need.

• Bulb replacement: Only the light bulb is replaced inside the existing headlight housing; this is the most common and least expensive repair.
• Headlight assembly replacement: The full housing (lens, reflector/projector, and internal hardware) is replaced; this is required after collisions, cracks, severe moisture intrusion, or when the lens is beyond restoration.

Knowing which repair applies will determine whether you’re spending tens of dollars for a bulb or several hundred for a full unit.

Typical prices in 2025

Bulb replacement costs

For most U.S.-market Honda Fit models, the main beams are halogen bulbs. Pricing below reflects common retail parts and average shop rates.

• DIY parts only: $15–$60 per bulb (standard halogen at the low end; premium “+brightness” or long-life bulbs at the high end).
• Independent shop: $50–$180 per bulb installed (typically 0.3–0.7 hr labor; shop labor rates ~$110–$170/hr).
• Honda dealer: $90–$240 per bulb installed (higher labor rate and OEM bulbs).
• Time needed: 15–60 minutes per side, depending on model year and access through the wheel well or engine bay.

These figures include typical shop supplies; taxes and environmental fees can add 5–10% depending on locality.

Full headlight assembly replacement costs

If the headlamp housing is damaged or severely clouded, replacing the entire assembly is the fix. This often requires removing part of the front bumper cover and re-aiming the lights.

• Aftermarket (CAPA-certified) assembly + installation: $250–$600 per side.
• OEM Honda assembly + installation: $400–$900 per side.
• Parts-only estimates: Aftermarket $120–$300; OEM $250–$650+ per unit, depending on year.
• Labor time: ~1.2–2.2 hours per side including aiming (bumper cover R&I commonly required).

Assembly costs vary with model year and availability; expect higher parts prices on newer generations and lower on earlier models.

Which bulb your Honda Fit uses

Bulb types differ by generation. Always confirm with your owner’s manual, a parts lookup by VIN, or the label on the headlamp cover before purchasing.

• 2007–2014 Fit (1st and 2nd gen, U.S.): Typically 9003/H4 dual‑filament halogen for combined low/high beam.
• 2015–2020 Fit (3rd gen, U.S.): Commonly H11 for low beam (projector) and 9005 for high beam (reflector).
• Daytime running/parking/turn bulbs vary by year and trim; check the manual if those are out as well.

While some markets offered different configurations, most U.S. Fits shipped with halogen headlights; factory LED low beams are uncommon on the Fit here.

Labor time and why it varies

On older Fits, bulb access can be straightforward from the engine bay. On 2015–2020 models, many shops access the bulbs through the wheel well, which adds time for removing clips and liners. Full assembly replacement typically requires loosening or removing the bumper cover, then re-aiming the beam, which increases labor time and cost.

Factors that affect price

A few variables can move your estimate up or down. Consider the following when budgeting:

• Local labor rates and shop type (independent vs. dealer).
• Bulb quality (standard, long-life, or high-output premium).
• Aftermarket vs. OEM assemblies; CAPA-certified units often cost less and fit well.
• Corrosion, seized fasteners, or broken clips adding labor.
• Headlight aiming time and alignment fees after assembly replacement.
• Taxes, shop supplies, and environmental or disposal fees.

Clarifying these details up front helps avoid surprise charges and ensures comparable quotes between shops.

When you need the entire assembly

Replacing only the bulb won’t fix structural or optical problems in the headlamp housing. These situations usually warrant a full assembly:

• Cracked lens or housing, or water/condensation consistently inside.
• Severe lens yellowing or crazing that polishing cannot restore.
• Broken tabs or adjusters preventing proper aiming or secure mounting.
• Impact damage from a collision or road debris.

If your beam pattern remains dim or scattered after a new bulb, the reflector/projector may be degraded—another sign an assembly replacement is due.

Ways to save without sacrificing safety

You can reduce costs while maintaining performance and legality with a few smart choices.

• DIY bulb replacement if access is reasonable—use gloves to avoid contaminating halogen glass.
• Replace bulbs in pairs to keep color and brightness matched.
• Choose reputable aftermarket assemblies (preferably CAPA-certified) when OEM pricing is high.
• Restore lightly hazed lenses instead of replacing the assembly; professional polishing is often $100–$200 for both sides.
• Avoid unapproved LED/HID retrofit bulbs in halogen housings; they can glare, perform poorly, and may be illegal.
• Ask for a written estimate with line-item parts and labor; request aiming to be included after assembly work.

These steps help keep the bill reasonable while preserving visibility and compliance.

What to ask your shop

A few targeted questions will ensure clarity on cost and quality before work begins.

• What bulb type and brand are you installing, and what’s the warranty?
• Is the quote for one side or both sides, and does it include taxes/fees?
• If replacing an assembly, is it OEM or CAPA-certified aftermarket, and will you re-aim the headlights?
• What is the estimated labor time, and is bumper cover removal required?
• Will you inspect for moisture intrusion or damaged connectors while you’re in there?

Clear answers help you compare estimates apples-to-apples and avoid repeat visits.

Bottom line

For most Honda Fit owners, a single halogen bulb replacement falls between $50 and $180 at an independent shop, or $90 to $240 at a dealer; DIY costs $15–$60. If the housing is compromised, expect $250–$600 per side with aftermarket assemblies or $400–$900 with OEM, installed. Verify your bulb type, ask for a detailed estimate, and ensure the lights are properly aimed after any housing replacement.

Summary

Replacing a headlight on a Honda Fit typically costs $50–$180 per bulb at an independent shop and $90–$240 at a dealer, with DIY bulbs running $15–$60. Full headlight assembly replacement—needed for cracked or badly hazed housings—usually totals $250–$600 per side with aftermarket parts or $400–$900 with OEM. Costs depend on model year, parts choice, and local labor rates; confirm your bulb type (H4/9003 for most 2007–2014 Fits; H11 low/9005 high for most 2015–2020 Fits) and request a written, itemized quote that includes headlight aiming.

Will AutoZone replace my headlight for free?

AutoZone provides free headlight bulb installation only if the bulb is easy to access and an employee is available and willing to help, as AutoZone is a parts store, not a full-service repair shop. If the bulb is difficult to reach, requiring the removal of other car parts, or if the store is busy, the employees may not be able to perform the installation. Some stores may offer assistance for simple bulb replacement as a courtesy, but this is not a guaranteed service. 
Factors that influence the service:

• Accessibility: If the bulb is in a difficult-to-reach location, AutoZone will likely not install it. 
• Employee Availability: Employees may be able to help if they are not busy. 
• Store Policy: Some AutoZone locations may have different policies, and some employees might refuse the service. 
• Job Complexity: AutoZone employees may not be comfortable with or trained to handle complex installations. 

How to get help:

1. Purchase the bulb: You must buy the replacement bulb from AutoZone. 
2. Ask an associate: Ask an AutoZone employee if they can help you change it. 
3. Offer a tip: If an employee helps you, a tip is appreciated, even though it’s not expected. 
4. Consider other options: If AutoZone cannot help, you may need to find a qualified mechanic or visit another auto parts store, like O’Reilly Auto Parts, which offers free bulb installation as a service. 

How much should it cost to replace one headlight?

A standard sealed beam halogen headlight, like the type used in old cars and commercial vehicles, costs around $20-$30 to replace. Vehicle-specific headlights used in modern cars start at around $100. Halogen lights are the cheapest, while HID prices start at around $200.

How much is a Honda Fit headlight?

The average price for a 2020 Honda Fit Headlight at Advance Auto Parts is around $92.34, with a range that starts at $4.49 and goes up to $502.99. With 10 options in stock from 3 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy.

What is the most common problem with Honda Fit?

Top Honda Fit Problems

• Honda Fit HVAC blower fan only works on high speed due to resistor pack failure.
• Check Engine Light and Stuttering While Driving.
• Front Door Arm Rest May Break.
• The Fuel Filler Door May Not Open.
• Rear Washer Nozzle Borken or Missing.
• Rattle noise from under driver side of dash.