Chevrolet Silverado 1999-2006: How to Replace Your Headlight Bulb and Assembly
Having a broken headlight can be a serious matter. But it's one that's easily remedied. This article will show you how to replace the headlight bulbs and assembly on the first-gen Silverado 1500.
This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-2006).
The condition of your headlights determines just how late you can stay out. Don't force yourself into a mechanical curfew just because your headlights are broken and you're waiting to get them fixed at a shop. Replacing a headlight bulb or assembly is easy and doesn't require any tools. All you need is some time and a little effort. Use the following guide to replace a broken headlight bulb or assembly, or use it to help you upgrade your headlights to high performance HID bulbs or LED bulbs.
Materials Needed
- Replacement headlight bulb and/or replacement headlight assembly
- Cloth or gloves to hold the bulbs
Step 1 – Remove the headlight assembly
Open the hood and pull out the two fastening rods at the top of the headlight assembly. With the rods out, the headlight assembly will come loose from the truck. Next, remove the two bulb sockets on the back of the assembly by twisting them counter-clockwise and pulling them out. This will pull the bulb and socket free from the assembly.
Figure 1. There will either be one rod across the top or two rods on either side of the assembly depending on the model year. 
Figure 2. Twist the bulb socket counter-clockwise to remove it.
Step 2 – Replace the headlight bulb and assembly
To replace the bulb just pull it straight out of the socket and insert the replacement bulb the same way. You should hear it snap into the socket when it's secured. Now insert the bulb sockets into your headlight assembly. Twist them clockwise to lock the sockets to the assembly. Position the assembly on the truck and insert the fastening rods. Start the truck and test the headlights. If they aren't working, then you either inserted the bulbs incorrectly or the bulbs are no good. If it still doesn't work, then you'll need to check your wiring. At that point you'll probably want to take it to a professional.
Pro Tip
Don't touch the bulbs with your bare hands. The oil and grease from your hands can cause the bulb to burn out when it gets hot. So, wear gloves or use a cloth to hold them. If you do get a bulb dirty, clean it with rubbing alcohol, and dry it before you insert it into the headlight housing.
Featured Video: How to Install or Replace Headlights on '99-'06 Chevy Silverado
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