Yes—it's a straightforward DIY task: access the headlight, unplug the connector, remove the old bulb, install a new one, and test. Halogen headlights are typically user-serviceable, while HID (Xenon) setups can require more steps or professional service depending on the year and trim. This guide covers both scenarios and emphasizes safety and proper bulb handling.
In this article, you’ll learn how to identify your EX35’s headlight type, what tools you’ll need, and step-by-step procedures for halogen and HID configurations. Always wear gloves or use a clean cloth when handling bulbs and disconnect the battery before starting.
Identify your headlight type and what you’ll need
Before you begin, determine whether your Infiniti EX35 uses halogen bulbs or HID projectors. The replacement method differs between these setups, and some trims may have unique bulb types. Check your owner’s manual or inspect the back of the headlight housing to confirm the bulb type (for example, halogen bulbs like H11/H7 or HID bulbs such as D2S/D3S) and note if a ballast is present.
Gather the essential tools and materials you’ll need for the procedure:
- Replacement bulb(s) of the correct type for your EX35
- Clean gloves or a microfiber cloth to handle bulbs without touching the glass
- Basic tools as needed (screwdriver or small socket set to remove covers or panels)
- Flashlight or headlamp for visibility
- Optional: new ballast or wiring harness if you’re dealing with a failing HID ballast
With the right bulb type and tools in hand, you’re ready to begin. Always re-check the bulb alignment after installation and test the headlights before driving at night.
Halogen headlight bulb replacement
Halogen bulbs are the most common replacement on older EX35 trims. The steps below assume you have a rear access to the bulb and a standard halogen bulb type. If your bulb is in a different position or secured with a clip, adapt accordingly.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and switch off the ignition. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure there is no power.
- Open the hood and locate the headlight assembly. Remove the rear dust cover or cap by turning it counterclockwise and pulling it away from the housing to expose the bulb.
- Gently unplug the electrical connector from the bulb by pressing the release tab and pulling straight back.
- If the bulb is held in place by a retaining clip, unhook or release the clip. If the bulb twists to unlock, rotate it counterclockwise until it frees from the housing.
- Carefully remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out. Avoid touching the glass with your bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.
- With clean gloves, handle the new bulb by the base. Align the bayonet or alignment tabs and insert the bulb into the socket, then secure it with the clip or by twisting to lock.
- Reattach the electrical connector firmly, reseal the dust cover, and return any removed components to their original position.
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal, turn on the headlights, and verify both the low and high beams function correctly. If necessary, adjust aim after reinstalling the bumper or access panel.
Halogen replacement is generally straightforward, but the exact bulb type (H11, H7, 9005, etc.) varies by year and trim. Always verify the correct bulb type for your EX35 in the manual or by inspecting the existing bulb’s markings.
HID/Xenon headlight bulb replacement
HID headlights (D2S, D3S, or other ballast-driven setups) are more common on higher trims and may be less user-serviceable. Some EX35 headlights are designed with sealed units or separate ballast assemblies. If you have a replaceable HID bulb, proceed carefully; if your unit uses a sealed ballast and bulb assembly, replacement of the entire headlight housing or professional service may be required.
- Power down the vehicle and disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent shock or short circuits.
- Gain access to the back of the HID headlight by removing the dust cover. You may need to remove additional components or access panels depending on your trim.
- Identify the ballast harnesses and disconnect them carefully from the back of the headlight assembly. Note the routing to avoid pinching cables during reassembly.
- If your EX35 allows bulb replacement, twist the HID bulb 90 degrees and pull it straight out of the projector. Do not touch the glass portion of the new bulb; use gloves or a cloth to handle the base only.
- Install the new HID bulb by aligning the pins and twisting it to lock, then reconnect the ballast harness. If you must replace the ballast, follow the same disconnect/reconnect steps for the ballast while ensuring proper grounding.
- Reinstall the dust cover and any removed components. Reconnect the battery terminal, then test the headlights.
Note: Many HID assemblies are not designed for easy bulb replacement and may require replacing the entire headlight unit or ballast. If you encounter resistance or the system refuses to illuminate after bulb replacement, consult a professional technician or an authorized Infiniti service center. HID systems also require proper aiming and may have headlight leveling features that need calibration after replacement.
Test, aim, and finalize
After installing a new bulb, it’s important to test the lights and ensure they are aimed correctly. Improperly aimed headlights can blind oncoming drivers and reduce your own visibility.
To test and aim your EX35 headlights, follow these steps:
- Park on a level surface about 25 feet from a vertical wall or garage door, with the vehicle perpendicular to the wall.
- Turn on the low-beam headlights in a dark area; mark the horizontal and vertical centerlines on the wall that correspond to the beam cutoff point.
- Adjust the headlight aiming screws (usually found on the back of the headlight housing) until the beam pattern aligns with the manufacturer’s specifications indicated in your owner’s manual.
- Test both headlights in low and high-beam modes (if applicable) to ensure proper operation and alignment. Re-check after driving for a short distance to account for any settling.
Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact bulb type and aiming procedures specific to your year and trim of the Infiniti EX35. If you’re unsure about the process, particularly with HID systems, professional service is recommended.
What if you can’t access the bulb?
If the headlight design on your EX35 makes bulb replacement difficult or if the assembly is sealed, you may need to replace the entire headlight unit or seek a dealer/auto shop service. Some trims use sealed HID modules where bulb swapping isn’t feasible. In these cases, a trained technician can advise whether a repair, ballast replacement, or full headlight replacement is required.
Summary
Replacing the Infiniti EX35 headlight bulb is typically straightforward for halogen bulbs—remove the dust cover, unplug the connector, swap the bulb, and reseal. HID headlights may involve more complex steps or professional service, depending on the model year and exact assembly. Always identify the correct bulb type, handle new bulbs with gloves, and test and align the headlights after replacement to ensure safe nighttime visibility.
End note: If you’re ever unsure about the exact bulb type or the replacement procedure for your specific EX35 variant, refer to the owner’s manual or reach out to an Infiniti-certified technician for guidance.
Will AutoZone replace your headlight bulb for you?
Answer: While AutoZone does not typically provide headlight installation services, you can purchase a replacement bulb or headlight assembly from them, along with the necessary tools.
What are common EX35 problems?
Problem number one engine and stalling. Issues repeated engine stalls at low speeds or while braking. Sometimes causing near misses in traffic sudden stalls while driving occasionally with the
Can I replace my front headlight bulb myself?
Yes, you can! Luckily, headlight bulb replacement is usually a quick and inexpensive fix, as long as you know a few important tips. Check out the video below to get started. If you still have questions, your local auto parts store is a great resource for finding the right bulb.
Will O'Reilly change the headlight bulb?
FREE Headlight Bulb Installation at O'Reilly Auto Parts
We also offer FREE bulb installation*. *Our parts professionals can install most vehicle light bulbs, however, some vehicles are exempt from this service due to hard-to-access bulbs or lighting assemblies that require extensive disassembly.