2011–2016 Scion tC
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $17 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $150
Quick answer: Replace Headlight Bulb on a 2011–2016 Scion tC is rated Moderate and takes about 10–20 minutes. You'll need 1 tool for this job, and parts cost about $133. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9005 Halogen Headlight Bulb | SY69JR | $32.75 | |
| LED Headlight Bulb Kit | ARC39VR | $99.99 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
The 2011–2016 tC is friendly for this job — both bulbs are reachable from the engine bay. Park on level ground, switch the lights off, and let the engine cool. Pop the hood and prop it open.
Look at the back of the headlight housing — you'll see a round rubber dust boot over the bulb opening. Note its orientation before touching it; it must go back the same way to seal.
Grip the rubber boot by its edge and pull it straight off — friction fit, no screws. Set it aside somewhere clean; grit on the sealing lip lets moisture in later. The bulb base and wiring connector are now visible.
Squeeze the locking tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight off the back of the bulb — pull the plug body, not the wires. If it feels stuck, rock it gently side to side while squeezing the tab.
The bulb is held by a wire spring retainer. Press it inward, swing it aside, and lift the old bulb out by its base. The three tabs line up with the housing notches — the replacement sits the same way.
I've found that wear nitrile gloves for the whole bulb swap — they keep finger oil off the glass and give you grip on that little wire retainer. One smudge and the bulb's life is cut in half.
Without touching the glass, seat the new bulb so its tabs drop into the notches, latching the retainer. An unseated bulb throws a lopsided beam. Finger oil on the glass becomes a hot spot that shortens bulb life.
Push the dust boot back over the housing, pressing it on evenly. Reconnect the wiring plug until it clicks. Close the hood and turn the headlights on — verify low and high beam. Do the other side too.
Always do both sides while you're in there — when one bulb dies, the other is right behind it. I've had customers come back a week later for the second one.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
