1. Gather your tools and materials.
- Replacement headlight bulb
- A flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool
- Philips head screwdriver
- Work gloves
2. Park your car in a safe, well-lit area.
Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down. Park your car on level ground and apply the parking brake.
3. Open the hood of your car.
Locate the hood release lever inside your car, usually under the dashboard on the driver's side. Pull on the lever to release the hood, then lift the hood and prop it open with the hood support rod.
4. Locate the headlight assembly.
The headlight assembly is located at the front of your car, on either side of the grille. It is a black plastic housing that contains the headlight bulb.
5. Access the headlight bulb.
There is a rubber cover on the back of the headlight assembly. Remove the rubber cover to access the headlight bulb.
6. Disconnect the electrical connector.
There is an electrical connector attached to the headlight bulb. Disconnect the electrical connector by pinching the release tabs and pulling the connector away from the bulb.
7. Remove the old headlight bulb.
Once the electrical connector is disconnected, you can remove the old headlight bulb. Turn the bulb counterclockwise until it is loose, then pull it straight out of the socket.
8. Insert the new headlight bulb.
Align the new headlight bulb with the socket and insert it into the socket until it is fully seated. Turn the bulb clockwise until it is secure.
9. Reconnect the electrical connector.
Reconnect the electrical connector by pinching the release tabs and pushing the connector back onto the bulb until it clicks into place.
10. Replace the rubber cover.
Replace the rubber cover on the back of the headlight assembly.
11. Close the hood.
Lower the hood and secure it with the hood release lever.
12. Turn on the headlights and check your work.
Turn on the headlights and check to make sure that they are working properly.
Congratulations, you have successfully replaced the 1998 Lexus ES300 headlight bulb.
