Buy Chevrolet (Chevy) Silverado 3500 HD Headlight Assembly

Quick Summary

The Silverado 3500 HD headlight-also called a headlamp, front lamp, or driving light-changed a lot for the 2020-2025 trucks. Low-beam bulbs are H11, high-beams are H9 on halogen-equipped models, while many upper trims use a sealed LED projector that is not user-serviceable. (FUZED LED) In 2024 the split-stack lamps were replaced by a single, C-shaped LED strip that works as the daytime-running light and signal. (MotorTrend) Base "Work Truck" trims keep simple reflector lights; higher trims add bright projectors and animated welcome sequences. Federal rules allow LED integral-beam lamps but still forbid aftermarket LED "bulbs" that replace halogen capsules. (NHTSA) GM advises that light fog on the inside lens is normal and clears in a few hours; only standing water means a leak. (NHTSA Static)

Fitment Years

• 2020-2025 3500 HD and 2500 HD share the same headlight housing and wiring. (GM Upfitter)
• Heavy-duty twins (GMC Sierra HD) share the same mounting points, but style and trim options differ.

Bulb Chart

← scroll table horizontally →

Data confirmed from the GM bulb guide. (FUZED LED)

Factory Designs

• Halogen reflector lights use separate H11/H9 capsules.
• LED projector assemblies on LTZ, High Country and ZR2 pack three projectors plus a sweeping LED strip; the whole module is replaced as one piece. (MotorTrend, MotorTrend)
• DRL brightness also serves as the front turn signal by dimming-flashing. (MotorTrend)

Trim Differences

GM's bulletin shows incandescent lamps on Work Truck/base trims and LED units on uplevel trims; dual-rear-wheel trucks always get the LED tails but can mix headlight types. (GM Upfitter)

Common Problems

• Condensation mist after rain or a car wash usually clears once the lamps warm up; GM says not to replace the unit unless liquid puddles inside. (NHTSA Static)
• Glare complaints after installing non-OEM LEDs can lead to tickets because LED retrofit bulbs are not DOT-approved for this housing. (NHTSA)

Aiming & Adjustment

The adjuster screws sit about 12 inches behind the lamp; a 25-foot wall test keeps the cut-off line just below head-height. Owners confirmed these screws on 2020-2024 trucks. (GM-Trucks.com)
Automatic high-beam "IntelliBeam" toggles on by setting the stalk to AUTO and pressing the button once. (Chevrolet)

Legal & Safety

• Headlights must meet FMVSS 108 for output, color and beam pattern. The standard lets makers use LED integral beams but still bans LED replacement capsules in halogen housings. (NHTSA)
• IIHS grades pickup headlights on distance and glare; Silverado 1500 halogen units scored "Poor," showing why proper aim on HD models is vital. (IIHS)
• Always re-aim after a suspension lift to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic-police can issue citations for mis-aimed lights. (GM-Trucks.com)

Outbound resources: NHTSA FMVSS 108 overview | GM Upfitter lighting PDF | IIHS Headlight rating method

Upgrade Paths

• Projector drop-ins: Entire LED housings plug-and-play and keep factory wiring.
• Beam pattern: Choose optics with cut-off shields to meet DOT guidelines; avoid "bulb-only" swaps that scatter light. (NHTSA)
• Wiring: Use GM-supplied upfitter harness circuits for extra roof lamps; pinouts are listed in the 2024 body-builder manual. (GM Upfitter)
• Style tweaks: After-market animated "start-up" sequences are legal if intensity stays within FMVSS limits. (NHTSA)

Care Tips

1. Wash the lens with mild car-soap; harsh cleaners can cloud the polycarbonate.
2. Apply a UV-protective sealant twice a year to slow yellowing.
3. Check aim every oil change, especially if you haul heavy trailers that sag the rear.
4. Switch both bulbs at the same time so brightness matches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What headlight bulb fits my 2020-2025 Silverado 3500 HD?
A: Halogen models use H11 low-beam and H9 high-beam bulbs. (FUZED LED)

Q: Are LED retrofit bulbs legal in my stock reflector?
A: No-FMVSS 108 has not approved any LED capsule that swaps directly for halogen in this housing. (NHTSA)

Q: Why is there fog inside the lens after rain?
A: A light mist is normal and should clear in under six hours of driving with the lights on; only pooled water needs repair. (NHTSA Static)

Q: How do I turn on automatic high-beams?
A: Put the headlight knob on AUTO, then press the IntelliBeam button on the turn-signal stalk. (Chevrolet)

Q: Where are the adjustment screws?
A: They sit behind each lamp, roughly a foot down from the top edge. Turn clockwise to lower the beam. (GM-Trucks.com)

Q: Do all trims use LED lights?
A: No. Base "WT" trucks have halogen reflectors; LT, LTZ, High Country, ZR2 and dually models ship with sealed LED projectors.

Q: Will a lift kit throw off my beam aim?
A: Yes. Raising the front points the light higher; always re-aim after any suspension change to avoid glare.

Q: How bright are the new projector lamps?
A: GM's 2024 refresh added three-beam LED projectors that shine farther and whiter than the old split-stack design. (MotorTrend)

Q: Does the truck warn me of a burnt-out bulb?
A: Yes; the Driver Information Center shows a "lamp out" icon and stores a diagnostic code. (Chevrolet)