Change the headlight bulbs on a 2002 Nissan Altima?

Question

I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to cars. I need to replace the bulbs for my headlights. The Nissan manual says to take it to the dealer. How much would they charge for something like that? Is it easier to do it myself without breaking something else? It looks like you have to move certain pieces to get to the light? Any advice from someone who knows about this car>

Answer 1

1. You need to find the size for your car (check here http://www.sylvania.com/ConsumerProducts/AutomotiveLighting/LampReplacementGuide/default.htm)
2. If installing it yourself, make sure you wear gloves and DO NOT touch the bulbs with your fingers if you're not wearing gloves.
3. It's pretty simple, just take out the plug that connects to the bulbs, then take the bulbs out carefully and replace and plug back in.

Answer 2

I do not recommend changing the oem regular bulbs to an aftermarket HID kit. Your car is not designed to work with that newer, hotter style bulb. I work at a Nissan dealer and see many problems with people who do shotty conversions with cheap kits. I see melted wires, ,melted headlamp lens, electrical shorts and other intermittent problems. but do what you want and think is "cool" but I warn you now you have major potential problems by modifying your headlights.

Answer 3

Actually first couple of years Altima's had a Grounding issue reacall. NTB05-057 " PB135 " Please get you car back to the dealer to catch up with the recalls and service campaigns. I am just guessing here it is the low beam light(s) that are not working. High beam lamps are harder to change. With a little luck you may end up with a new headlight assembly.