Passenger-side low beam out

[Steely Dan]

Noticed tonight that the low-beam on my 05 Matrix is out.

Looked at Oreillys for replacement.

Questions.
1.) Is it easy to replace?
2.) Is Sylvania a good stock OE replacement?

Thanks, SD

[mikered30]

Yes it is pretty easy to replace, might have to squeeze you hand into a tight space to turn the bulb. Sylvania is a good bulb, get the XtraVision bulb, it is their best. Stay away from the junk cool blue bulb and the silverstar bulbs. Any tint on a bulb reduces output and silverstars will burn out in under a year. They have a regular halogen bulb (OEM equivalent), that is ok, but the XtraVision is great. Replace the bulbs in pairs.

[Steely Dan]

Thanks for the response.

I got the Sylvania XtraVisions. I like to have never got the passenger bulb to twist out. I called the Toyota Dealership and they said that sometimes grit and dirt will prevent a smooth turn. So I just applied more pressure and it popped out. I am waiting until the misty rain stops before replacing the drivers low beam. Hope I dont have to remove battery....it looks like I can get my hand in there.

[Kanata_Matrix]

Hope you have a small hand and be patience. A long plier will do the trick as well. Good luck

[mistamatrix]

Make sure you don't touch the bulb!

[Steely Dan]

I was very careful not to touch the bulb. I had heard you should not touch it because oils and possible grim from your hands can shorten its life. Not sure if that is true but what the heck.

Once you get the thing turned, it is pretty simple.

Looks like the high-beam will be a little more involved. I'll wait till they go out before replacement.

[anita]

Originally Posted by mistamatrix

Make sure you don't touch the bulb!

That dood at OReillys placed his hands all over that bulb and it works fine.I have to replace the pass side bulb atleast twice a yr and drivers side only once in 5 yrs.My last Toyota......