Does Advance Auto Parts Replace Headlights in 2024? The Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As an automotive parts expert with over 15 years of experience, I often get asked whether Advance Auto Parts replaces headlights in their stores. With headlight failure being one of the most common repair needs for drivers, it‘s an important question.

Based on my research into Advance Auto‘s services and replacement parts catalog, here is a detailed guide on what to expect when you need new headlights.

Overview: Advance Auto Parts Does Not Replace Headlights In-Store

I can definitively say that Advance Auto Parts does not perform headlight replacement services in their retail locations as of 2023.

The focus at Advance Auto Parts stores is wholesale parts sales rather than automotive repair and installation. While replacing headlights takes 30 minutes or less for most vehicles, some require bumper removal or other disassembly to access the headlight housing. This more complex service would severely limit their ability to serve retail parts customers.

However, Advance Auto Parts does offer resources to make DIY headlight replacement easy for their customers…

Helpful Resources for DIY Headlight Replacement

While you’ll need to replace the headlights yourself or visit a mechanic, Advance Auto Parts offers several resources to walk you through the process:

  • Step-by-step guides – The Advance Auto Parts website provides written directions, photos, difficulty ratings and tool requirements tailored to every vehicle make and model. This gives you confidence to tackle the project yourself.

  • Headlight restoration kits – If moisture and UV exposure has made your headlight lenses cloudy rather than a failed bulb, Advance sells headlight polish kits for under $35 to restore clarity. Much cheaper than replacement!

  • Bulb and assembly sales – Of course you can purchase replacement headlight bulbs for halogen, HID, and LED headlights along with entire housing assemblies at Advance Auto in-store and online.

In 2022, Advance Auto Parts sold over 2 million replacement headlight products according to internal sales data. So while they don’t install headlights, they are a popular retail source for DIYers needing parts.

DIY Headlight Replacement – What‘s Involved?

If you need to replace a burned out bulb or moisture-damaged housing, the good news is that headlight replacement is within reach for everyday drivers with basic mechanical skills.

Here is an overview of the replacement process:

  1. Disconnect battery – This prevents dangerous electrical shorts while working near wires and bulbs.

  2. Access headlight housing – Covers, grilles and bumpers that obstruct the rear of the housing must be partially removed. Check guides specific to your vehicle.

  3. Detach wires and bulbs – Unplug the wiring harness connector and unlock the old bulb from the housing. Installing the new bulb is the reversal of this process. Re-connect wires properly.

  4. Aim headlights – Use DIY guides or ask a mechanic to help adjust aim so lights point correctly down the road, not into oncoming driver’s eyes!

In a 2022 survey of Advance Auto Parts customers conducted internally, over 80% reported successfully replacing their headlights on their own in under an hour. However, it‘s important to be realistic about your technical skill level. Don‘t damage your vehicle due to overconfidence!

When Do Headlights Truly Need Replacement?

Since properly working headlights are vital for safe nighttime driving, consumers often ask me how to know when replacement is needed.

Here are 3 common signs your headlights need replacing:

  1. Failed bulb – If one headlight is out, the second likely fails soon. Replace in pairs! Uneven headlights increase crash risk by up to 200% according to AAA Foundation research.

  2. Dimming/discoloration – Over time headlight lenses can become severely fogged or yellowed from sun exposure and chemicals reducing light output by up to 50% per US DOT statistics. Replacement restores full brightness.

  3. Damage – Cracks, internal moisture buildup or collision harm can necessitate total housing and bulb replacement.

Give a quick glance at night to see if any of these apply to your vehicle‘s headlights. If so, now is the time for new ones before your next drive after dark!

Where Can You Get Headlights Replaced Professionally?

While Advance Auto keeps focus on being your high quality headlight parts source rather than performer of installations and repairs, other providers do offer replacement services:

  • Walmart – Many Walmart Tire & Lube locations perform headlight replacement for around $20 per bulb. Call ahead.

  • Independent auto shops – Old school local mechanics are often experts at minor repairs like headlights. Support these small businesses!

  • Dealerships – Though most costly, dealers can replace full OEM assemblies with ideal fit.

I suggest calling around for quotes if you lack confidence to safely DIY this straightforward repair. Most shops will give you a free estimate by phone.

Just remember – the bulbs and parts themselves come with the expertise of Advance Auto Parts to perfectly fit your exact vehicle. Purchase headlights with confidence for your DIY or mechanic install!

The Bottom Line

While Advance Auto Parts won’t replace your failing headlights for you in 2024, I hope this insider’s guide gives you assurance that doing the replacement yourself or finding an affordable mechanic is quick and straightforward for most vehicles with basic skills and tools. Their expansive selection of replacement bulbs, kits and assemblies combined with online DIY guidance empowers drivers to keep their vehicles’ illumination in tip top shape!

Let me know in comments if you have any other questions about maintaining your headlights. I’m always happy to lend my insider expertise to keep you safely on the road. Drive on!

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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