Buy Honda CR-V Headlight Assembly

• 1997-2006 (1st-2nd gen) - Halogen reflector low beam = 9006, high beam = 9005. (AUXITO)
• 2007-2016 (3rd-4th gen) - Halogen reflector low beam = H11, high beam = 9005.
• 2017-2022 (5th gen) - Most trims keep halogen low beams (H11) and halogen or LED high beams (9005/LED). Touring and Hybrid trims upgrade to full LED reflector units. (, IIHS Crash Testing)
• 2023-2025 (6th gen) - All trims use LED reflector low and high beams with automatic high-beam assist. (IIHS Crash Testing)

Bulb names are standardized; "H11" fits many halogen or LED retrofit bulbs, while "9005" also appears as "HB3." Knowing both terms prevents mix-ups when searching parts.

• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the 2024-25 CR-V's LED headlights "Good," its top score.
• Older halogen units scored "Acceptable" (2018-22) or "Marginal" (2016 and earlier), mainly because the beam was dim on curves. (IIHS Crash Testing, IIHS Crash Testing)
• Good-rated headlights help the CR-V earn a 2024 Top Safety Pick award. (IIHS Crash Testing)

These third-party grades show why many owners upgrade older reflector lamps to LEDs or projector retrofits.

• A national recall (NHTSA 12V-136) affects 2002-2004 CR-V models for melting contacts in the headlight switch that can kill both low beams.
• The same problem triggered an earlier engineering investigation (EA11-012) after dozens of low-beam failures. (NHTSA)
• Drivers of 2012-2016 models often report "dim" lamps; community threads show output can drop as bulbs age or lenses haze. (CRV Owners Club)
• Condensation inside the housing may require resealing or replacing the rubber vent caps. (passportforums.com)

Owners should check VINs for open recalls at the official NHTSA lookup tool.

• U.S. replacement headlights must meet FMVSS 108, which sets brightness, beam pattern and marking rules. (eCFR)
• A headlight aimed too high can blind oncoming traffic; too low wastes light. Many states require annual inspections using those same federal specs.
• Some aftermarket LED bulbs exceed the legal glare threshold, and law-enforcement can ticket for "improper lighting." (The Times)

Always choose components that carry DOT/SAE markings and aim them correctly.

1. Open the hood and remove the plastic cover behind the bulb.
2. Twist the bulb counter-clockwise; unplug the wiring.
3. Insert the new H11 or 9005 bulb (do not touch the glass).
4. Re-seat the cover and test the lights.

The illustrated iFixit step-by-step guide shows the process on a fourth-generation CR-V.

• Park 25 ft (7.6 m) from a flat wall on level ground.
• Measure from the ground to the lamp center; tape that height on the wall.
• Turn the vertical adjuster screw until the top of the low-beam hotspot sits just 2 in (5 cm) below the tape.
• Horizontal aim is preset at the factory on most CR-V lamps.

Video demonstrations follow the same method. (YouTube)

• LED bulb swap - Quality LED bulbs can output 2,000-4,000 lumens, double typical halogens (700-1,500 lumens). (RIMTHIN)
• Projector retrofit - Installing bi-LED projectors in 2007-2011 housings focuses light and adds a sharp cutoff. (CRV Owners Club)
• Film or guard - Clear urethane films protect polycarbonate lenses from chips and UV damage. (Wikipedia)

Any electrical modification should be fused and weather-sealed to avoid shorts.

CR-V lenses are polycarbonate plastic with a UV clear-coat that can cloud over time. Wet-sanding plus a fresh UV sealant restores clarity and light output, often at a fraction of replacement cost.

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Q: What bulb size fits a 2019 CR-V low beam?
A: H11 for low beam and 9005 for high beam. (AUXITO)

Q: Are LED bulbs plug-and-play?
A: Yes, many H11 and 9005 LEDs fit, but they must be aimed correctly and carry DOT markings to stay legal. (RIMTHIN)

Q: Why did both low beams quit on my 2003 CR-V?
A: A known wiring-harness defect covered by Recall 12V-136 can melt the switch and cut power. Have a dealer perform the free repair.

Q: How often should I change bulbs?
A: Replace halogen bulbs in pairs every 3-4 years or when output drops; LEDs usually last much longer.

Q: Can I restore cloudy headlight lenses myself?
A: Yes. Wet-sand with 1,000-3,000-grit paper, polish, then apply a UV-rated clear coat or film to keep them clear. (Wikipedia)

Q: What torque spec do I use when reinstalling the headlight assembly?
A: Tighten the 10 mm mounting bolts to 8 N·m (hand-tight with a 1/4-drive ratchet). (iFixit)

Q: Does my 2024 CR-V have auto high beams?
A: Yes. All sixth-generation CR-Vs include automatic high-beam assist that dims for oncoming traffic. (IIHS Crash Testing)

Q: Are aftermarket projector headlights legal?
A: They are legal if the assembly carries DOT/SAE marks and meets FMVSS 108 beam-pattern rules. (eCFR)

Q: How do I check for open headlight recalls?
A: Enter your VIN at the official NHTSA recall portal.

Q: Why do LEDs look "too bright" to some drivers?
A: LEDs can exceed 6,000 lumens and have a whiter color, so if they're mis-aimed they may cause glare for oncoming traffic. (The Times)