2017 Chevrolet Malibu Headlight Bulb Replacement
Complete guide to 2017 Chevrolet Malibu headlight bulb replacement. Cost estimates, difficulty level, time required, and environmental impact.
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💰 Cost Breakdown
💡 Tip: Costs vary by location and repair shop. Authorized service centers typically charge more than independent repair shops.
🔧 Repair Overview
Headlight Bulb Replacement is one of the most common repairs for 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. This repair involves replacing the damaged lighting component with a new or refurbished part. The process typically takes 15-30 min and requires easy skill level.
What You'll Need
- Replacement lighting part (OEM or aftermarket)
- Precision screwdriver set (Phillips #000 or pentalobe)
- Opening tools (plastic spudger, suction cup)
- Adhesive strips or glue
- Clean workspace with good lighting
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Removing Screws
First pop the hood of the car and locate the headlight. They are towards the front of the car.
Step 2:
Use a Phillips #0 screwdriver to remove the 10 mm screws attaching the headlight to the car.
Step 3: Take out the headlight
Remove the headlight so you can see all wiring going from the car and to the headlight.
Step 4: Safety Caps
Remove the safety caps to get a good a view of your bulb wiring.
Step 5: Remove the Bulb
Turn the bulb counter clockwise then pull it out.
Step 6: Separate the bulb and pigtail
Pull back the clip that's holding the bulb (top half) and the pigtail (bottom half) together.
Pull apart the two, exposing the inside of the damaged pigtail.
Step 7: Cutting Wires
Now that you have separated the bulb and pigtail, detach the pigtail end from the car wires using wire cutters or scissors.
After cutting the wires, grab your new pigtail and pull back the rubber surrounding the wire. Pull back the rubber so there is enough wire to twist (connect) to the car wire.
Step 8: Electrical Tape
Once you've connected the pigtail back to the car be sure to wrap the wire in electrical tape.
Then grab your new bulb and attach it to the new pigtail by pushing it together until the clip has clicked.
Put the safety caps back on.
Step 9: Almost Done
Take your new bulb and place it back inside the headlight by twisting clockwise and making sure it doesn't come out or disconnect.
Reattach the headlight to the car with the 10 mm screws using a Phillips #0 screwdriver.
📖 Repair guide provided by iFixit - The free repair manual. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
iFixit Difficulty: Moderate | Time: NaNh NaNm
DIY vs Professional Repair
✋ DIY Repair
- ✅ Lower cost (parts only: $12-$60)
- ✅ Learn new skills
- ❌ Risk of further damage
- ❌ No warranty
- ❌ Requires tools and time
🔧 Professional Repair
- ✅ Expert installation
- ✅ Warranty included
- ✅ Faster turnaround
- ❌ Higher cost ($20-$100)
- ❌ Need to find reputable shop
Environmental Impact
By choosing to repair your 2017 Chevrolet Malibu instead of replacing it, you're preventing approximately 6099 kg of CO₂ emissions. Manufacturing a new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu generates 6100 kg of CO₂, while this repair only produces about 1 kg of CO₂. That's a 100% reduction in carbon emissions!
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