How to Change the Headlight in a 2013 Honda Civic

To change a headlight bulb on a 2013 Honda Civic, open the hood, access the bulb from behind the headlamp, remove the rubber dust cap, unplug the connector, twist the bulb counterclockwise to release it, then install a new bulb (H11 for low beam, 9005/HB3 for high beam), avoiding contact with the glass, and test the lights. In most cases the job takes 10–20 minutes per side with minimal tools; a bit of extra clearance may be needed by removing the washer-filler neck (passenger side) or intake snorkel (driver side).

What you need to know before you start

The 2013 Honda Civic (sedan, coupe, Si, and Hybrid in North America) uses separate bulbs for low and high beams: H11 for low beams and 9005 (HB3) for high beam/DRL. Always verify your trim and market in the owner’s manual or by checking the bulb base. Working space is tight; minor trim pieces may be temporarily removed for easier access. Protect the new bulb from skin oils, and consider replacing bulbs in pairs to maintain even brightness and color.

Below is a checklist of parts and tools that make the job smoother.

• Replacement bulbs: H11 (low beam), 9005/HB3 (high beam/DRL)
• Nitrile gloves and safety glasses
• Clean lint-free cloth or alcohol wipe (for bulb glass if accidentally touched)
• Flat-trim tool or small flathead screwdriver (for push-pin fasteners)
• 10 mm socket/ratchet (optional, if you choose to move minor components)

Having the correct bulbs and basic tools at hand reduces the risk of damaging connectors or fasteners and helps you complete the replacement quickly and safely.

Step-by-step: Replace the low-beam bulb (H11)

The low-beam bulb sits behind a rubber dust cap on the inboard side of each headlamp. The procedure is the same on both sides, with slight access differences described afterward.

1. Park on level ground, set the parking brake, switch lights off, and open the hood. Let the headlamp cool if it was recently on.
2. Optionally disconnect the negative battery terminal for maximum safety, especially if your hands may press near live connectors.
3. Locate the low-beam bulb behind the headlight housing. It’s under a circular rubber dust cap; the low beam sits closer to the center of the car than the high beam.
4. For more space, remove obstructions if needed:
   – Passenger side: Twist and pull the blue-capped washer-filler neck straight up to remove; set aside.
   – Driver side: Lift out the air-intake snorkel by popping the plastic push pins and pulling up.
5. Peel off the rubber dust cap to expose the bulb and connector.
6. Press the connector tab and pull the plug straight off the bulb.
7. Rotate the bulb counterclockwise about a quarter-turn and pull it straight out of the housing.
8. Compare the old and new bulbs to confirm the correct part and orientation. Do not touch the glass; if you do, clean with alcohol and a lint-free cloth.
9. Insert the new H11 bulb into the socket, aligning the tabs. Press fully seated and turn clockwise to lock.
10. Reconnect the electrical connector until it clicks.
11. Refit the rubber dust cap securely to seal out moisture.
12. Reinstall the washer-filler neck or intake snorkel if removed.
13. Turn on the headlights to confirm operation; check both low beams and look for a stable, even beam pattern.

These steps restore low-beam function without disturbing headlamp alignment. If the bulb won’t lock or the cap won’t seat, remove and recheck the tab alignment and O-ring placement.

Access tips: driver vs. passenger side

Space is tighter on a compact engine bay. The following tips help you reach the bulb without forcing parts or straining wiring.

• Passenger side: Removing the washer-filler neck (blue cap) is a quick, tool-free way to gain room; it pulls up and out, then presses back in.
• Driver side: Popping out the intake snorkel (plastic tray feeding the airbox) by releasing its push pins creates a clearer path to the dust cap.
• Lighting the area with a small headlamp or work light reduces the chance of cross-threading or misaligning tabs.

These small clearances changes are optional, but they significantly reduce the risk of damaging connectors or seals while working by feel.

Replace the high-beam/DRL bulb (9005/HB3)

The high-beam bulb sits behind its own socket, typically outboard of the low beam, and doubles as the daytime running light (DRL) at reduced voltage on many trims. The process mirrors the low-beam swap, without a rubber dust cap on some housings.

1. Locate the high-beam socket behind the headlamp (often the outer position in the housing).
2. Press the connector tab and unplug the 9005 bulb.
3. Rotate the bulb counterclockwise and remove it.
4. Install the new 9005/HB3 bulb, aligning tabs, then turn clockwise to lock.
5. Reconnect the plug and test high beams and DRLs.

Because the 9005 serves dual duty on many Civics, verify both the high beam and DRL functions after installation to ensure proper seating and electrical contact.

Aim and performance check

While a bulb swap doesn’t normally change aim, it’s smart to confirm the beam pattern to avoid glare and maximize visibility.

1. Park 25 feet from a flat wall on level ground, with normal tire pressure and a typical fuel/load level.
2. Turn on low beams and look for a sharp cutoff at or slightly below headlight center height; both sides should be even.
3. If needed, adjust using the vertical aim screw on the rear of each headlamp (small gear/screw). Make small, equal turns.
4. Verify high beams strike above the low-beam cutoff and are centered.

A quick aim check improves night driving and keeps the light pattern legal and courteous to oncoming traffic.

Common mistakes and quick fixes

Most post-replacement issues trace back to seating, alignment, or contamination. Use this checklist if the light misbehaves after the swap.

• Light won’t turn on: Recheck connector seating and the bulb lock; inspect the fuse (under-hood fuse box) if both sides fail.
• Flicker or intermittent: Connector not fully engaged or tabs not fully locked; remove and reseat.
• Dim or off-color: Oil from fingerprints on the glass or mixing old/new bulbs; clean glass or replace in pairs.
• Moisture inside lens: Dust cap not seated or O-ring pinched; remove, dry with gentle airflow, and reseal.
• Glare to others: Bulb mis-seated or aim off; reinsert bulb and recheck aim.

Addressing these basics usually restores full performance without further parts or service.

About LED/HID conversions and legality

Many aftermarket LED or HID kits promise brighter light, but installing them in halogen reflector housings (as on most 2013 Civics) can produce glare and is illegal in many jurisdictions. If you want upgraded performance while staying compliant, choose quality halogen bulbs that meet DOT/SAE or ECE specs, and keep wattage stock to avoid wiring or heat issues. If you pursue projector or full headlamp assembly upgrades, research roadworthiness and local regulations first.

Maintenance tips to extend bulb life

A few small habits can reduce premature failures and keep your headlights performing consistently.

• Avoid touching bulb glass; oils create hot spots that shorten life.
• Replace bulbs in pairs to maintain even brightness and color.
• Keep lenses clean and clear; UV-hazed lenses reduce output dramatically.
• Check charging system voltage if bulbs frequently fail; overvoltage shortens lifespan.
• Ensure dust caps and seals are intact to prevent moisture and corrosion.

These preventive measures are inexpensive and help maintain visibility and safety over time.

Summary

Changing a headlight on a 2013 Honda Civic is a straightforward driveway task: access the rear of the headlamp, remove the dust cap (low beam), unplug, twist out the old bulb, and install an H11 (low) or 9005 (high) bulb without touching the glass. Minor components like the washer-filler neck or intake snorkel can be lifted out for more room. After installation, test both beams, check aim, and ensure the dust cap is sealed to keep moisture out.

Will AutoZone replace my headlight bulb?

Yes, AutoZone can replace your headlight bulb, but it depends on the vehicle and how easy it is to access the bulb. For straightforward bulb changes, an associate may help, but if the bulb requires removing car parts, you’ll likely need a professional shop for installation. It’s best to visit your local AutoZone and ask an associate, as policies can vary by location and employee willingness. 
Factors that determine if AutoZone will change your bulb:

• Vehicle Difficulty: Some vehicles have very difficult-to-access headlight bulbs, requiring significant disassembly. 
• Time: If the bulb change takes too long, or if the store is busy, the employee may not be able to help. 
• Type of Headlight: Complex bulbs like LEDs may not be serviceable by AutoZone. 
• Store Policy and Staff: Some AutoZone locations are more willing to help than others. 

What you can do:

1. Buy the correct bulb: Purchase the replacement bulb from your AutoZone store. 
2. Ask for assistance: Go to the counter and ask an employee if they can install the bulb. 
3. Be prepared for a referral: If the job is too complex, the associate can direct you to a preferred shop. 
4. Check for other options: You could also check with other auto parts stores or mechanics to see if they offer the service. 

How much does it cost to replace a headlight on a Honda Civic?

A Honda Civic headlight replacement can cost from around $150 to over $1,000, depending on whether you’re replacing just the bulb or the entire headlight assembly, the technology (halogen or LED), the specific year of your Civic, and if you do it yourself or use a mechanic/dealership. Bulb replacements are cheaper, costing $60–$120, while full LED assembly replacements can be significantly more expensive, ranging from $300 to over $1,400. 
Factors influencing the cost:

• Bulb vs. Assembly: Replacing a single burnt-out bulb is a quick and inexpensive job, while a cracked or malfunctioning headlight assembly is a more complex and costly repair. 
• Technology: Halogen headlights are cheaper to replace than LED or Xenon headlights. 
• Vehicle Year: Prices vary significantly between different generations of the Honda Civic. 
• Labor: You can save money by replacing the headlight assembly or bulb yourself, as labor costs can be high, with mechanics often charging $100-$150 per hour. 
• Parts: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts from a Honda dealership will generally be more expensive than aftermarket parts from stores like AutoZone or CarParts.com. 

Cost breakdown for different types of replacements:

• Headlight Bulb Replacement: . Opens in new tabExpect to pay between $60 and $120 for a single bulb, according to RepairPal. 
• Headlight Assembly Replacement: . Opens in new tabCosts for an entire assembly can range from $150 for older models or aftermarket options to over $1,000 for newer or LED assemblies. 
• Labor Costs: . Opens in new tabA mechanic’s labor can add $60 to over $150, depending on the complexity of the job and the shop’s rates. 
• Dealership vs. Independent Shop: . Opens in new tabA dealership will likely charge more for parts and labor than an independent shop or a DIY replacement. 

Tips for saving money:

• DIY: Replacing the headlight bulb is a simple process that requires basic tools and can be done yourself after watching a tutorial on YouTube. 
• Shop Around: Get quotes from various repair shops for the best price on parts and labor. 
• Buy Aftermarket: Consider aftermarket headlight assemblies, which can offer significant savings compared to OEM parts. 

How to take off a Honda Civic headlight cover?

Cover. Then using a Phillips screwdriver unscrew the screw holding the bumper cover to the fender do the Same on the other. Side.

Is it easy to change a Honda Civic headlight?

Difficulty rating: Easy! Minimal disassembly, using only basic tools.