Replacing Prius HID Headlights On Your Own

• 1). Remove the black plastic shield that runs the width of the front of the car under the hood. Gently turn the six screws counterclockwise about 1/4 turn each. A Phillips screwdriver can help.
  
  
• 2). Use a flat head screwdriver to lift the top half of the plug that holds the passenger side vent. The vent will pop off easily.
  
  
• 3). Remove the window washer fluid container on the passenger side. Doing so will allow easier access to the light assembly. First, pop off the screw holder on the left, and remove the threaded screw toward the firewall on top using the Phillips screwdriver.
  
  Remove the two electrical connectors on the bottom by pinching them and pulling. The window washer fluid container will release with a little manipulation.
  
  
• 4). Use a small flashlight for vision, and carefully remove the spring wire attached to the back of the light assembly. Apply constant pressure counter-clockwise. Do not use tools to dislodge this connector. Wear gloves or use a rag to protect your fingers.
  
  
• 5). Detach the electrical connector from the plastic lens backing that was just removed. Move it away from the work space.
  
  
• 6). Turn the chrome electrical connector counter clockwise 1/8 of a turn until it clicks, and remove it. The back of the bulb will be visible.
  
  
• 7). Remove the old HID bulb. Be sure the spring wire has been previously removed.
  
  
• 8). Install the new bulb. Be careful to hold the bulb by its base, and install it as soon as it is removed from the package to minimize contamination. Feel for three little bumps to assure correct positioning, and gently reapply the spring wire around the bulb. The bulb should fit securely.
  
  
• 9). Turn the chrome electrical base 1/8 turn clockwise to lock the bulb firmly in place. It goes on easily if done correctly.
  
  
• 10
  
  Attach the electrical wire connector to the back of the plastic lamp cover, and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
  
  
• 11
  
  Changing the Prius' driver's side headlight is the same procedure, but it is not as accessible as the passenger side. It requires the removal of different items, beginning with the fuse box cover, but otherwise involves the same steps for replacing the actual HID light bulb.