How to replace the dome light in a 2001 Honda Accord EX sedan

The dome light is the overhead light that many drivers never even think about.  It typically comes on when you open the car door and goes off when you start the engine, and unless you need to read a map or find something in the back seat, you may never even use it.  But if the light does happen to go out, replacing it is an easy process.

You can probably find a replacement bulb at your local auto parts store (Sylvania DE3423 will work) but if not you can buy one online.  Amazon sells a two-pack for $7.59.  (AutoZone and O'Reilly each list it at $7.99.)

Follow the steps below to replace the dome light in a 2001 Honda Accord EX sedan.

1. Turn the light to Off

The dome light is located on the ceiling toward the middle of the car.  Push the switch for the light to the Off position.

2. Remove the cover

The plastic cover over the light can be removed by prying or popping it off.  There are two tabs on the rear side of the cover (toward the trunk of the car) that can be popped out with a small flathead screwdriver or knife blade.  Once the tabs have been popped out, pull the cover off.

3. Remove the bulb

The bulb itself sits in the housing held in by two metal tension brackets.  You can pull it out with your fingers -- remove one end first and then the other -- but be careful not to drop it because it could break or get lost.

4. Install the new bulb

Place the new bulb into the two brackets so that it clips into each one.  The orientation doesn't matter, as long as the light sits firmly in its housing.

5. Test the light

Push the light switch to On and verify that the light comes on.  If it doesn't come on, the bulb isn't sitting flush in its housing -- turn the light off and try to reseat it, then test it again.  If it still doesn't come on, either the new bulb is bad or you have a wiring problem.

6. Reattach the cover

Line the cover up so that the two large tabs are on the side toward the rear of the car, then push the opposite side of the cover (toward the front of the car) into place first.  Once that side is in place, push the rear side up, pushing the two tabs in slightly, and the cover should snap into place.

(Originally published on Helium.com, 2011. Prices and links have been updated.)

(Disclaimer: I earn a commission on Amazon sales made from links in this post.)