How to Replace a Headlight Bulb in a Dodge Ram

The headlights on your Dodge Ram pickup truck provide essential visibility and help keep you safe while on the road. You should check them frequently to make sure they're working properly. When one does burn out, replacing the headlight bulb yourself is a simple repair that can save you time and money. These steps will help you change a headlight bulb on a 2002 or newer Dodge Ram.

Instructions

1

Engage the parking break and remove the keys from the ignition before attempting any repairs. Make sure you've turned the headlight switch to the off position.

2

Open the hood by first pulling the interior hood release lever located below the steering wheel under the instrument panel. Then, walk around to the front of the pickup and push up on the safety catch located in the opening beneath the center of the grill. Lift the hood and secure it.

3

Unscrew the expanding fastener from the headlight welt, if equipped. Use a screwdriver to remove the three screws that hold it in place. However, not all Dodge Rams of this generation have this feature.

4

Remove the first two bolts from the headlight assembly using a socket wrench. These two bolts will be on the inside near the grille.

5

Remove the third bolt located on the outside bottom of the headlight assembly near the fender. You may find it easier to access this bolt from the fender well where you'll find an access hole after removing the fender plug. Use a socket wrench with a ratchet extender for easier removal.

6

Pull the headlight assembly away from the front of the pickup, giving special force to the fender side. Be careful not to scratch the paint or jostle the assembly too much. You don't want to have to readjust your headlight aim when you're done.

7

Disconnect the electrical connector by giving it a quarter-turn and pulling it straight out from the base of the bulb housing. This should remove it completely from the housing, so you can access the bulb.

8

Twist the collar on the headlight bulb a quarter-turn to remove it from the bulb base.

9

Install the new bulb into the bulb assembly, reconnect the electrical connector and place it back into the headlight housing. Replace the headlight assembly in reverse order of removal. Make sure all bolts are secure before closing the hood.

10

Turn on your Dodge Ram and make sure the headlights are working.