How to replace a map light bulb in a 2005 Honda CR-V

Many vehicles have two map lights, one for the driver and one for the passenger. Each of these lights uses a separate bulb and if the bulb ever burns out, it's typically an easy task to replace it. This article will guide you through replacing either of the bulbs for the map lights in a 2005 Honda CR-V.

The map light bulb used in the 2005 CR-V, which is the same as many other models, is a 9.3-watt bulb that can be replaced with a Sylvania 904 bulb.  If you have a local auto-parts store that you frequent, you can tell them you need the map light bulb for a 2005 CR-V and they should be able to find the right bulb. Otherwise, you can purchase a new bulb online from many auto retailers; AutoZone.com sells a pair of bulbs for $5.99 and Amazon.com sells a pair for $5.49.

The map light is located in the ceiling between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat. There are two bulbs, but they are protected by one large plastic cover. To remove the cover, locate the two indentations in the front side of the plastic cover, (toward the vehicle's engine), and pry the cover off at these points using a small slotted screwdriver or pocketknife. Once the tabs at these two locations have been pried up, the cover should come off easily, if not fall off on its own.

With the cover off, you can see each of the two bulbs. If either of the map lights are on, turn them off now to protect your eyes. To remove one of the bulbs, simply grasp the bulb carefully and pull it downward, out of its socket. Be careful not to squeeze the bulb as you are pulling it, so it doesn't break. The bulb should slide straight out.

The new bulb is inserted in exactly the opposite way. Grasp the new bulb by the larger bulbous side (with a napkin or clean rag if possible, to avoid leaving any oil or residue on the bulb's surface) and push it firmly into the socket, until it slides into place. Then reattach the cover by lining up the tabs on the rear side of the cover with the slots in the rear side of the map light housing (toward the CR-V's back door), sliding the cover into place on the rear side, and then pushing it up and into place so the front side snaps closed. You might have to push the front side a little forcefully to get the tabs to snap in.

Once you have the new bulb installed, you can test it by turning the light on. Now you have a brand new bulb that will hopefully last for years before you'll need to replace it again (if ever).

(Originally posted on Helium.com, June 2013)