How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Headlight on a 2015 Honda CR‑V?

For a 2015 Honda CR‑V, replacing a single burned‑out headlight bulb typically costs about $30–$90 at an independent shop or $60–$150 at a dealership, parts and labor included. Replacing an entire headlight assembly (the full housing) generally runs $350–$900 per side at an independent shop or $600–$1,200 per side at a dealer, depending on whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts and local labor rates. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you budget with confidence and decide the right repair for your situation.

What You’re Actually Buying: Bulb vs. Full Assembly

Most headlight fixes are bulb-only replacements. However, if the lens is cracked, fogged beyond restoration, or the internal reflector/projector is damaged, you’ll need the full assembly. The 2015 CR‑V sold in the U.S. came with halogen headlights from the factory—no OEM HID or LED units—so bulb prices are relatively modest, while assembly replacements are the bigger-ticket item due to parts and labor.

Typical Price Ranges in 2025

The following outlines the most common price ranges owners are seeing in 2025 for a 2015 Honda CR‑V, factoring in average U.S. parts pricing and shop labor rates.

• Bulb replacement (one side, independent shop): $30–$90 total
• Bulb replacement (one side, dealership): $60–$150 total
• Both low-beam bulbs replaced (independent): $70–$180 total, depending on bulb type
• Headlight assembly replacement per side (aftermarket, independent): $350–$900 total
• Headlight assembly replacement per side (OEM, dealer): $600–$1,200 total
• Headlight lens restoration (if lenses are cloudy but not cracked): $80–$150 for both sides

These ranges reflect common scenarios; the low end often assumes standard halogen bulbs and competitive labor rates, while the high end reflects premium parts and dealership pricing.

Parts Breakdown for a 2015 CR‑V

Knowing the correct bulb types and typical part costs helps you compare quotes and avoid overpaying.

• Low-beam bulb: H11 halogen; $12–$30 for standard, $30–$60 for premium “long-life” or “whiter” options
• High-beam bulb: 9005 halogen; $10–$25 standard, $25–$45 premium
• Complete headlamp assembly (per side): $150–$300 aftermarket CAPA-certified; $400–$700 OEM
• Incidental hardware (clips, retainers): $5–$15 if needed during assembly replacement

Premium bulbs can offer brighter or whiter light but may have shorter lifespans. CAPA-certified aftermarket housings are a cost-effective alternative to OEM and are widely used by body shops.

Labor Time and Why It Matters

Labor is a major driver of your final bill. The time required varies by task and shop.

• Bulb replacement: ~0.3–0.5 hour per side (often done from the engine bay with tight access)
• Headlight assembly replacement: ~1.5–2.5 hours per side (bumper cover usually must be loosened or removed)
• Typical labor rates (2025, U.S.): $110–$180 per hour independent; $150–$220 per hour dealer

Because assembly replacement is labor-intensive, doing both sides doesn’t always double the labor—some shops discount the second side once the bumper is already off.

Sample Out-the-Door Scenarios

These real-world style examples illustrate how parts and labor stack up on common jobs.

• One low-beam bulb at an independent shop: $20 bulb + 0.4 hr labor at $140/hr ($56) = about $75 before tax
• Both low-beam bulbs at a dealership with premium bulbs: $90 parts + 0.8 hr at $180/hr ($144) = about $234
• One aftermarket headlight assembly at an independent shop: $240 part + 2.0 hr at $140/hr ($280) = about $520
• One OEM headlight assembly at a dealer: $600 part + 2.2 hr at $180/hr ($396) = about $996

Pricing varies by region and supplier availability. If your quote is far outside these ranges, ask for a parts and labor breakdown.

How to Tell If You Need a Bulb or the Whole Assembly

Before authorizing a larger job, check for signs that point to a simple bulb fix versus a full housing replacement.

• Only one side is dim or out, with no cracks or moisture: likely just a bulb
• Condensation inside the lens, cracked housing, or broken tabs: assembly replacement
• Light output is yellowed or hazy on both sides, but lenses are intact: consider lens restoration
• Intermittent operation or multiple bulbs out: inspect fuses, connectors, or ground issues

A quick visual check and a bulb swap test can prevent unnecessary costs. Many shops will diagnose this in minutes.

Ways to Save Without Sacrificing Safety

There are safe, practical ways to manage costs, especially if both sides are aging or if your lenses are cloudy.

• Replace bulbs in pairs: aligns brightness and color; may save on labor if both are done together
• Choose CAPA-certified aftermarket assemblies: often 30–50% cheaper than OEM with good fitment
• Price-match and bring your own bulbs: many shops will install customer-supplied bulbs for a small labor fee
• Consider restoration before replacement: if lenses are cloudy but unbroken, restoration can restore brightness for far less
• Get multiple quotes: ask for itemized parts (brand, part number) and labor hours to compare apples to apples

Balancing part quality, warranty, and labor rate typically yields the best value. Always keep receipts and part numbers for future reference.

Fitment and Legal Notes

The 2015 CR‑V was not factory-equipped with HID or LED low beams in the U.S. If you’re considering an LED retrofit, ensure the bulbs are DOT-compliant and designed for a halogen projector to avoid glare and inspection issues. Improper retrofits can reduce your visibility and blind oncoming drivers.

Bottom Line

Expect $30–$150 per side for a bulb replacement (depending on shop and bulb choice) and $350–$1,200 per side for a full headlight assembly job on a 2015 Honda CR‑V, with independent shops usually undercutting dealers. Verify whether you need just a bulb, consider doing both sides together, and compare itemized quotes to keep costs in check.

Summary

On a 2015 Honda CR‑V, a single bulb replacement commonly runs $30–$90 at independent shops or $60–$150 at dealers; a full headlight assembly replacement typically costs $350–$900 per side at independents or $600–$1,200 at dealers. Parts choice (aftermarket vs. OEM) and labor time (0.3–0.5 hr for bulbs; 1.5–2.5 hr for assemblies) drive the total. Replace bulbs in pairs for even lighting, consider lens restoration if housings aren’t damaged, and request itemized estimates to compare value.

How much does it cost to replace a whole headlight?

When you factor in the cost of the bulb and the labor, you will be looking at a total cost of between $30 and $300, depending on the type of bulb and the difficulty of installation. If you need to replace the entire headlight assembly, the price variation is extreme, to say the least.

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 does it cost to replace a headlight on a Honda CRV?

A Honda CR-V headlight replacement can range from around $60 to over $1,500, depending on whether you’re replacing just the bulb (which is cheaper, around $60-$80 for parts and labor) or the entire headlight assembly (which is much more expensive). Newer CR-V models may have higher replacement costs, sometimes requiring removal of the front bumper for access, and the price can also vary significantly by location and whether you use a dealership or an independent shop. 
Factors Influencing Cost

• Part vs. Assembly: The most significant factor is whether you’re replacing just the light bulb or the entire headlight unit. 
• Vehicle Year and Model: The specific year of your Honda CR-V determines the type of bulb and the difficulty of access, which impacts labor costs. 
• Labor vs. DIY: Replacing the bulb yourself can save significant labor costs. Some AutoZone locations may even offer assistance for simple replacements. 
• Location: Costs for labor and parts can vary depending on your geographic location and whether you choose a dealership or an independent repair shop. 
• Complexity: For some CR-V models, the front bumper may need to be removed to access and replace the headlight bulb, increasing labor costs. 

Average Costs

• Headlight Bulb Replacement: . Opens in new tabThis is the most common repair, with costs typically ranging from $60 to $81 for newer models, covering parts and labor. 
• Headlight Assembly Replacement: . Opens in new tabThis is a much more expensive repair, with estimates for the entire unit ranging from $100 to over $1,500. 

Tips for Getting an Estimate

• Use Online Estimators: Websites like RepairPal provide fair price estimators based on your vehicle’s year and location. 
• Contact Local Shops: Get specific quotes from both dealerships and independent mechanics to compare costs for the parts and labor involved in your specific CR-V. 

What headlight bulb do I need for a 2015 Honda CRV?

9005
For Honda CR-V CRV 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Light Bulbs High Performance Halogen Headlight Bulbs 9005 High Beam+H11 Low Beam, Super Bright Front Light Car Replacement Bulb. Amazon’s Choice highlights highly rated, well-priced products available to ship immediately.