Headlights out

[patti44556]

This past Sunday I was stopped by a police officer who warned me that my left headlight (low beam) and my right fog light were out. I priced it out at a Merchants nearby my house and was quoted around $170 for parts and labor - there are no dealerships nearby my house... Does this sound reasonable to you? I think it is a bit much so I just want to make sure I get some thoughts before I take it in for repair.

Thank you in advance! :waving:

[Rallyman]

I think that is way too much. I would never pay anyone to change bulbs myself but if you're not comfortable doing it then I guess you'll have to pay for the service. I don't think the two bulbs should cost more than $20 to $30 total. I would hope a reputable shop wouldn't charge any more than half an hour labour to change the bulbs.

In the end, I think about half what you were quoted would be a fair price if you must pay someone to do this for you. Also I would suggest that you may want to replace both low beam bulbs at the same time. It's likely the other side will go out soon anyway. You can keep the one good bulb for a spare.

[patti44556]

Thank you Rallyman! I did some research on the internet and found a step by step tutorial on eHow on how to replace my sonata headlights. I agree with you, it sounds pretty easy so I have decided to do it myself. The only question I have is - where can I find the bulbs? Is this something I can buy at an auto store? If yes, any particular brands you recommend?

Thank you again!

[Rsquared]

I agree with Rallyman whole heartedly. Also, you should change headlights as a pair because the new bulb will be brighter.

[Rsquared]

Thank you Rallyman! I did some research on the internet and found a step by step tutorial on eHow on how to replace my sonata headlights. I agree with you, it sounds pretty easy so I have decided to do it myself. The only question I have is - where can I find the bulbs? Is this something I can buy at an auto store? If yes, any particular brands you recommend?

Thank you again!

Any parts store should have the bulbs. And Sylvania is OEM for just about every car manufacturer...here's a useful link http://www.sylvania.com/BusinessProducts/AutomotiveLighting/

[patti44556]

Excellent! I will shop around for the bulbs. Thank you all for your speedy responses. I truly appreciate that!

[Rsquared]

Let us know if you have any other questions. Also...did you get a shop manual yet?

[patti44556]

Thank you all again for your help. Lightbulbs cost me $45 for the pair as I couldn't easily find them in Stafford and it took me - and I am not joking - no more than 2 minutes to do the job. I felt so competent after I was done so I just wanted to let you know that you all are the best and Red - yes , I have the shop manual.

Have a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend!

[Rsquared]

Glad to hear you got the problem corrected. And I find it odd that the bulbs where hard to find! And who is Red??? LOL.