How to Install a Headlight Bulb in a 2002 Dodge Stratus

The Dodge Stratus was introduced in 1995, alongside the Plymouth Breeze. The 2002 Dodge Stratus was available as either a two-door or a four-door model. The base 2002 Stratus SE was equipped with a 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder engine. A 2.7-liter V-6 was an optional upgrade for the 2002 Stratus. The headlights on the 2002 Stratus use a dual-beam bulb, which means that the high and low beam lights are created by one bulb. Replacing the headlights is somewhat easy, requiring very little mechanical knowledge.

Instructions

1

Open the hood of the Stratus and set the hood prop.

2

Remove the headlight mounting bolts, which are set through two small tabs behind the headlight assembly, on the upper radiator support. Use a ratchet and socket to loosen the mounting bolts. Pull the mounting bolts out, by hand, once they are loose.

3

Pull the headlight assembly forward and out of the front of the car. Rest the assembly on the front bumper, using your knee to assist in holding it still. Turn the plastic locking collar on the rear of the headlight assembly counterclockwise, then slide it back to expose the bulb socket. Pull the headlight socket out of the assembly. Unplug the headlight bulb from the assembly and discard it in a trash can.

4

Wrap the new headlight bulb lens in a paper towel or napkin before you pick it up. Plug the new light bulb into the bulb socket, making sure you do not touch the bulb with your bare fingers. Insert the bulb and socket back into the rear of the headlight assembly. Install the lock collar and turn the collar clockwise to lock it in place.

5

Insert the headlight assembly back into the front of the car. Install the two mounting bolts by hand, so that you can ensure they are threading properly. Tighten the mounting bolts until they are snug. No torque is needed on these bolts; adding torque can break the plastic tabs on the headlight assembly.

6

Repeat Steps 2 through 5 to replace the headlight on the second side of the car. Headlights should be replaced in pairs, to ensure congruity in the lighting circuits of your vehicle.