Headlight Components

What Headlight Replacement Parts Do You Need?

The headlight replacement parts you need depend on what failed and how far you want to take the upgrade. A cracked lens or damaged housing usually calls for a full assembly, while a dead switch or loose bucket only needs that one part. Start with the symptom, then match the part to your vehicle.

Here are the main part types you'll find in this category:

• Headlight assemblies, including OEM-style crystal and halo LED projector designs
• Headlight switches, push-pull switch assemblies, and dimmer switches
• Headlight buckets, bucket housings, and adjuster sets
• Halogen conversion headlamps and headlamp modules
• Headlamp motors, switch nuts, and adjusting tools

If you'd rather install a complete bolt-in unit, compare the options in our complete headlights category.

Restoring an older car? Our guide to headlight types for classic cars explains the headlight styles you'll run into.

Updating auxiliary lighting at the same time? Browse fog lights to round out your front-end lighting.

How Do You Choose a Headlight Switch or Dimmer Switch?

Choose a headlight switch by matching your vehicle and model years first, then confirm the switch positions you need. Count the terminals on your old switch and compare them to the listing.

Direct replacements include JEGS headlight switches for 1969-88 Cadillac and International Harvester models and 1984-95 Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth models.

For a custom harness or restomod, a 4-position push-pull switch assembly keeps the classic pull-knob feel. Painless Performance Products offers a 3-position switch with Off, Park, and Low Beam settings. A universal dimmer switch handles high- and low-beam selection when the original dimmer is worn out.

Small hardware matters too. If the switch on a 1983-92 Camaro won't stay tight in the dash, a replacement headlight switch nut may be all you need.

Before you pull the old switch, map out your wiring. Our GM headlight switch wiring diagram guide helps you trace each connection before you install the new switch.

Which Headlight Buckets and Adjusters Fit Classic Restorations?

For a classic restoration, start with the headlight bucket, because it holds the lamp and adjusters in position. When a bucket rusts or the adjusters seize, your headlights won't stay aimed. Check whether your car uses single or dual headlamps before you order.

Scott Drake offers an OEM-style headlight bucket housing for 1965-66 Mustangs. You'll also find replacement buckets for 1955-57 Chevy trucks. If you're rebuilding the front end, replace the bucket and adjuster hardware together so you only take it apart once.

If your original bucket is still solid, a headlamp adjuster set or bucket rebuild kit can bring it back into service. Kits are available for 1955-57 Chevy 150, 210, and Bel Air models. For Ford vehicles, a headlight adjusting ratchet makes fine aim adjustments easier.

Cars with hidden headlamps need different parts. A left-side headlamp motor fits 2000-04 C5 Corvettes. Our hideaway headlights guide covers what to check before you buy motors and related parts.

Should You Upgrade to a Halogen Conversion or Projector Headlight?

A halogen conversion headlamp is a direct upgrade if your vehicle uses 7-inch round headlamps. Projector headlights suit newer cars and trucks that use full assemblies. Match the headlamp size and mounting style to your current setup before you buy.

HELLA offers a 7-inch round Vision Plus halogen conversion headlamp that includes the lamp, dust boot, and bulb, and it's ECE approved. HELLA also makes a 90mm DE Series high-beam halogen module and a combination halogen headlight.

For trucks and late-model cars, Spyder Auto offers OEM-style crystal headlights for 1988-93 GM trucks, 1994-98 GM C/K trucks, 2001-04 Tacomas, and 2006-09 Priuses. Its halo LED projector headlights fit 2006-08 BMW E90 models and 2007-14 Suburban, Tahoe, and Avalanche models.

Projector assemblies replace the full factory unit, so confirm the listed model years for your vehicle.

Before you upgrade, check your state's lighting rules and the markings on the lamp. Higher-wattage bulbs also draw more current, so review your wiring and switch before you install them.

How Do You Find Headlight Parts That Fit Your Vehicle?

The quickest way to find parts that fit is to enter your Year-Make-Model in the vehicle selector. That narrows the results to parts listed for your vehicle, so you're not scrolling through every listing.

Next, use the filters to fine-tune the list. Position helps when you're replacing one side, such as a left-side headlamp motor. Material and Color help you match the original look, and Body Type separates parts for different body styles.

Brand and Product Line filters help when you already know the part you want. If you don't want to reuse old hardware, the Mounting Hardware Included filter shows parts that include new mounting hardware.

Always read the fitment notes on the product page before you order. On older vehicles, previous owners may have swapped switches, buckets, or lamps, so compare your old part to the listing.

Shop headlight components now, then browse more automotive lighting to finish the rest of your build.