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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a dome light bulb?
Where can I get my dome light bulb replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my dome light bulb?
What happens if I don’t replace my dome light bulb?
What is a dome light bulb?
Can I replace my dome light bulb myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a dome light bulb?

You can expect an average total replacement cost of $80 for a dome light bulb, with $22 for parts and $59 for mechanic labor. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.

How long does it take to replace a dome light bulb? In general, it takes around 0.5 hours for a certified mechanic to complete the job. Your mechanic will perform a preliminary inspection to determine if a replacement is necessary, then follow through with the full replacement.

Here’s an overview of dome light bulb replacement costs for different vehicles:

Dome light bulb replacement cost for various vehicles

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
November 17, 2024	Sam, 20 Atlanta, GA	Land Rover Discovery	$60	$5	$55	0.5 Hours
November 16, 2024	Eula, 22 Staten Island, NY	Isuzu Ascender	$67	$5	$62	0.5 Hours
November 9, 2024	Ricardo, 34 High Point, NC	Alfa Romeo Stelvio	$63	$5	$59	0.5 Hours
November 5, 2024	Ruby, 42 Tucson, AZ	Saturn Vue	$65	$5	$60	0.5 Hours
November 4, 2024	Alejandro, 43 Concord, CA	Ford Taurus	$84	$5	$79	0.5 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my dome light bulb replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Here are the parts you’ll need for a typical automotive dome light bulb replacement:

Dome light bulb: The main part you need for the replacement is the car dome light bulb. It's available in various types, such as LED, halogen, or incandescent, and the cost can vary depending on the type and brand you choose. Expect to spend around $5 to $15 for a replacement bulb.

Screwdriver (if required to remove the light cover): In some vehicles, you might need a screwdriver to remove the light cover and access the dome light bulb. If you don't have a screwdriver, you can purchase one for around $5 to $10.

Latex gloves (optional for handling the bulb): While not necessary, using latex gloves can help protect the new bulb from oils and dirt that might be on your hands. A pack of latex gloves typically costs $2 to $5.

Keep in mind that the total cost for your dome light bulb replacement may vary depending on your location, the type of bulb you choose, and where you purchase the parts. You can buy dome light bilb parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. We recommend brands like Philips, Sylvania, and Wagner. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

OEM parts are those made by your car's manufacturer. They promise an impeccable fit and performance. However, they do tend to come with a heftier price tag and might be somewhat hard to come by.

Aftermarket parts are more budget-friendly and there’s a plethora of choices. However, their quality can sometimes be hit or miss, and they won’t all fit perfectly. Remember, compatibility with your car's make and model is the most important factor.

Where can I buy parts for my dome light bulb replacement?

Amazon, and RockAuto offer convenient online shopping with a wide range of choices, from classic incandescent to trendy LED light bulbs. If you need the bulb quickly, Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone and NAPA Auto Parts are great for instant gratification. Your local dealership or auto shop might sell you a dome light bulb replacement, too.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my dome light bulb replaced?

With the rundown on 2,500+ vetted repair shops nationwide, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can make the search for a mechanic to replace your dome light bulb a lot easier.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from local shops using actual hourly rates. You’ll be able to budget for diagnostic fees and see reviews from previous customers to make sure you’ll be happy with your service.

Here’s a look at some of our vetted shops below—and you can download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

154 Reviews

61 Auto Center

1226 Centre Ave, Reading, PA

Dome Light Bulb Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$55

(Parts - $5, Labor - $50)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$70

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (610) 370-7224

123 Reviews

Herbert Automotive

235 Castleberry Industrial Dr, Cumming, GA

Dome Light Bulb Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$67

(Parts - $5, Labor - $62)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry

158 Reviews

Tire World

202 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL

Dome Light Bulb Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$120

(Parts - $5, Labor - $115)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$49.95

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (813) 238-3102

169 Reviews

JVL Cars, Service and Sales

5293 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL

Dome Light Bulb Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$100

(Parts - $5, Labor - $95)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (407) 855-7044

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my dome light bulb?

Here's a step-by-step guide that explains how a mechanic will replace your dome light bulb:

Access the fixture: The mechanic will begin by locating the dome light fixture in your car's interior. Depending on the model, it could be on the ceiling or built into the overhead console.

Remove the cover: Once the fixture is located, the mechanic will carefully remove the cover or lens that encases the bulb. This is usually done by gently prying it off or unscrewing it, depending on the design.

Remove the old bulb: With the cover removed, the old dome light bulb will be easily accessible. The mechanic will carefully twist or pull out the old bulb from its socket.

Check the compatibility: Before proceeding, the mechanic will ensure the replacement bulb is compatible with your car's make and model. It's essential to match the correct type and size for a perfect fit.

Insert the new bulb: The new dome light bulb will be placed securely into the socket, making sure it's aligned correctly.

Replace the cover: After installing the new bulb, the mechanic will put the cover or lens back in place, ensuring it's properly secured. They’ll clean it, if it needs to be cleaned.

Test the light: The final step involves testing the newly installed bulb. The mechanic will turn on the dome light to ensure it illuminates the car's interior as intended.

Verify proper functionality: Lastly, the mechanic will double-check that the dome light responds correctly to the door switches and manual controls, ensuring it works seamlessly.

What happens if I don’t replace my dome light bulb?

Wondering what could go wrong if you neglect that pesky dome light bulb replacement?

Picture this: You just parked your car at 10pm after a night out with friends, and you’re searching for your purse on the floor—but you can't see a thing inside your car because the dome light is out.

It’s more than just an inconvenience. There are real risks involved with an unpredictable dome light bulb.

On top of the struggle to locate stuff in the dark abyss of your car, a faulty dome light could flicker on during nighttime driving and create dangerous driving conditions. Plus, it’s possible that a burnt-out dome light would drain your car's battery if accidentally left on for an extended period.

What is a dome light bulb?

A dome light bulb is a small yet essential component of a vehicle's interior lighting system. Like a beacon in the night, it illuminates the interior cabin with a gentle glow to provide visibility for passengers and help them find items or read during those late-night journeys.

The bulb is compact, usually round, and often translucent. It is nestled discreetly within the overhead console or roof of a car. When doors open or a switch is toggled, the circuit completes, and the bulb emits a soft, diffused light.

In modern vehicles, dome light bulbs have come a long way. From traditional incandescent bulbs to more energy-efficient LED bulbs, technology has improved not only their luminosity but also their longevity. LED replacement is advisable when possible, for longer-lasting bulbs.

Most modern cars use a 12-volt electrical system, which means that the dome lights are designed to operate on a 12-volt power supply.

Map lights provide reading light in targeted areas of the vehicle, but they’re different from dome lights. License plate lights are different, too.

Remember that the interior dome light requires a special type of bulb. Your headlight bulbs may light up the road powerfully with a ton of lumens, but the wattage (and size) would not be suitable for dome lights.

When should I replace the dome light bulb on my car?

It's essential to replace the dome light bulb on your car when it becomes dim or stops functioning altogether. Other signs include flickering or inconsistent illumination.

Additionally, if you've checked the fuse and the switch, and the problem persists, it's a clear indication that the bulb needs replacement.

How often should a dome light bulb be replaced?

There’s no regular interval at which you should replace your dome light bulb. Instead, keep an eye out for these signs of trouble:

Dim Illumination: If your dome light seems a tad lackluster and doesn't illuminate your car's interior like it used to, it's probably time for a fresh bulb.

Flickering: Does your dome light play hide-and-seek with you, flickering on and off like a disco party? That's a clear sign it's time for a replacement.

Age-Old Bulb: Like fine wine, some things improve with age, but not dome light bulbs! If your bulb has been lighting up your ride for years, it's best to swap it out for a new one.

Unresponsive Switch: If flipping the switch fails to produce any glimmer of light, your dome bulb might be reaching the end of its life.

Can I replace my dome light bulb myself?

Yes. Replacing your dome light bulb is usually a simple and DIY-friendly task, and repair costs are minimal if you do the installation yourself.

Most dome light fixtures are designed for easy access, making it hassle-free to remove the old bulb and install a new one. You won't need any specialized tools or mechanical expertise—just a replacement bulb and a little know-how!

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FAQs

How do you change a dome light bulb in a car?

First, ensure your car is turned off and the keys are removed to avoid any electrical accidents. Next, locate the dome light housing, typically positioned on the ceiling near the rearview mirror or in the center console, and gently remove the cover using a flathead screwdriver or your fingers.

Take note of the type and size of the old bulb to help you select the appropriate replacement, and double-check your manual for the part number. Carefully remove the old bulb from its socket, either by twisting or pulling it out. Now, insert the new bulb securely into the socket.

Test the new bulb by turning on the dome light to ensure it's working correctly. Once confirmed, replace the cover by snapping it back or reattaching any screws or clips. Double-check the dome light once more to ensure everything is functioning properly.

What happens if you leave your dome light on all night?

Leaving your dome light on all night can have several consequences, depending on your car's battery condition and the type of light bulb used:

Drained battery: The most common issue is that the car's battery will be drained significantly or completely depleted. Dome lights, especially if using traditional incandescent bulbs, consume a small amount of power, but over an extended period, it can be enough to drain the battery.

Difficulty starting the car: If the battery is drained, you may experience difficulty starting the car the next time you try to use it. The engine may not crank or start at all.

Battery damage: Deeply discharging a car battery repeatedly can lead to permanent damage, reducing its overall lifespan and performance.

Stranded: In worst-case scenarios, if the battery is entirely drained and you can't jump-start the car or call for assistance, you might end up stranded until help arrives.

Why won’t my dome lights go out?

There are a lot of reasons your dome lights might be stuck in the “on” position. Check that the dome light switch is off. Next, check that the dome light switch itself is working properly.

Otherwise, you might have a wiring issue, faulty relay, or interior light timer malfunction. If there have been any aftermarket modifications or installations related to the car's electrical system, they could be causing problems, too. Speak with an automotive electrician if you run into trouble.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.