electrical
Headlight Bulbs - Pair
for 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L V6 EcoBoost · RWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
36 min
Tools
3
Steps
14
This procedure covers replacement of both low beam headlight bulbs on the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine, requiring access through the engine compartment.
Warnings
⚠Allow headlights to cool for at least 15 minutes before servicing if recently operated to prevent burns
⚠Never touch the glass portion of halogen bulbs with bare hands as skin oils cause premature failure and hot spots
ℹ️This procedure covers low beam bulbs only; high beam and DRL bulbs use different procedures
Tools required
Flathead screwdriver or trim tool
Clean lint-free gloves or clothEssential
Flashlight or work light
Parts
- H11 halogen headlight bulb (or LED equivalent) × 2 — H11 standard fitment
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
- Allow headlights to cool if recently used
- Open hood and secure with prop rod
- Identify headlight assemblies behind the grille area on each side
Procedure
- 1Access driver side headlight assemblyLocate the low beam bulb access cover on the back of the driver side headlight assembly. It is a round black cover approximately 4 inches in diameter. You may need to move aside wiring harnesses or hoses for better access.
- 2Remove driver side bulb coverRotate the bulb access cover counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pull it straight back to remove. Set the cover aside in a clean location.
- 3Disconnect driver side bulb connectorLocate the electrical connector attached to the base of the bulb. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight back off the bulb base. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
- 4Remove driver side bulbGrasp the bulb base and rotate it counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn, then pull straight out from the headlight housing. Avoid touching the reflector inside the housing.
- 5Install new driver side bulbUsing clean gloves or holding only the plastic base, insert the new bulb into the headlight housing, aligning the tabs. Rotate clockwise 1/4 turn until it locks into place. The bulb should be secure and not rotate freely.
- 6Reconnect driver side electrical connectorPush the electrical connector onto the bulb base until you hear or feel it click into place. Gently tug to verify it is secured.
- 7Reinstall driver side coverAlign the tabs on the bulb access cover with the slots in the headlight housing. Push the cover in and rotate clockwise 1/4 turn to lock it in place.
- 8Access passenger side headlight assemblyMove to the passenger side of the vehicle. Locate the low beam bulb access cover on the back of the passenger side headlight assembly. Access may be slightly tighter on this side due to engine components.
- 9Remove passenger side bulb coverRotate the bulb access cover counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pull it straight back to remove. You may need to reach around the air intake components.
- 10Disconnect passenger side bulb connectorPress the release tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight back off the bulb base. Keep track of wire routing for reinstallation.
- 11Remove passenger side bulbRotate the bulb counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pull straight out from the headlight housing. Inspect the socket for any corrosion or damage.
- 12Install new passenger side bulbUsing clean gloves, insert the new bulb into the housing, aligning the tabs properly. Rotate clockwise 1/4 turn until fully locked. Verify the bulb is seated completely.
- 13Reconnect passenger side electrical connectorPush the electrical connector firmly onto the bulb base until it clicks. Ensure the connection is secure and wires are not pinched.
- 14Reinstall passenger side coverAlign and install the bulb access cover by pushing it in and rotating clockwise 1/4 turn. Ensure it is fully seated and locked.
Reassembly
- Verify both bulb access covers are fully secured and locked in place
- Ensure all wiring harnesses and hoses moved during access are returned to their original positions
- Close hood securely
Verification
- Start the vehicle and turn on the headlights to verify both low beams illuminate properly
- Check for proper beam pattern and ensure no flickering or dimness
- Verify no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster
- If equipped with automatic headlights, cycle them on and off to confirm proper operation
- Visually inspect both headlight assemblies to ensure covers are secure and no gaps are present