11-15 Chevy Cruze Headlight Bulb Change | O'Reilly Auto Parts

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Your Chevy Cruze’s headlights help you see in low light and poor weather, as well as letting other drivers know where you are. Properly functioning headlights are required by law in order for your 2011-2015 Chevy Cruze to pass a state vehicle safety inspection. It’s recommended you change both bulbs at the same time, since bulbs typically fail at the same rate, so if you have a headlight bulb that is burned out or failing, replacing both bulbs as soon as possible will help keep you and your vehicle safe.

Tools & Materials List

Step-by-Step Instructions

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The following procedure will apply to most 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 Chevy Cruze models, but be sure to know the specifics for your Cruze before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.

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Locate the wiring harness connected to the back of the bulb.

Step 1: Locate the Bulb

Open the hood and locate the bulb on the side where you’ll be working first. It will be connected to a wiring harness at the back of the headlight assembly.

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Use a small flathead screwdriver to disengage the clip on the side of the harness.

Step 2: Detach the Wiring Harness

Use a small flathead screwdriver to disengage the gray clip on the wire side of the harness. Push in the tabs on the socket and pull out the connector.

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Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it from the assembly.

Step 3: Remove the Bulb from the Assembly

Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to dislodge it from the back of the assembly, and carefully pull it out.

Do It Right: When you install the new bulb, be sure not to touch it with your bare fingers. Finger oils and grease can leave hot spots on the bulb and cause it to burn out prematurely.

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Align the tabs on the socket with their openings on the back of the headlight assembly to install the bulb.

Step 4: Install the New Bulb

Align the tabs on the socket with their openings on the back of the headlight assembly, and install the bulb. Turn it clockwise to secure it.

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Snap the electrical connector back into place.

Step 5: Reconnect the Harness

Press the connector into the socket until you hear it click. Snap the gray clip back into place.

Do It Right: Headlight bulbs should always be changed in pairs, so repeat these steps on the other side.

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Turn the headlights on to make sure the bulbs have been properly installed.

Step 6: Check the Headlights

Turn the headlights on to make sure they’re working, then close the hood.

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The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.

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