Code1040040
Operation Code: 1040040
Standard Labor Map: Headlight Bulb Replacement
About This Operation Code
When you see 1040040 on your mechanic's quote or invoice, it refers to the standardized automotive industry code for Headlight Bulb Replacement. Mechanical shops use these codes to lookup predefined labor times (guided by Alldata or Mitchell 1).
This repair involves replacing a burnt-out or dim headlight bulb to maintain visibility and stay road legal.
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Standardized Labor
Shop labor rates range from $120–$250/hour depending on your city. Using 1040040 prevents a mechanic from charging "made up" times.
Average Total Cost (Labor + Parts)
~$20-$50 per bulb (basic halogen); $100-$150 each for HID/Xenon; labor included if easy, extra if bumper removal required
*Based on 2026 national averages for headlight bulb replacement.
View Full Pricing Guide →⚠️ Beware Overlap Labor
Dishonest shops often double-dip labor when billing multiple Op Codes. For example, if parts must be removed to access Headlight Bulb Replacement, they shouldn't bill full Book Time for both codes.
Upselling “pair replacement” - it’s often recommended to replace both headlights for even brightness, but not strictly necessary if one just went out; charging an hour of labor for a 5-minute bulb change (some cars are easy, some require more work); selling an upgrade to LED or HID kits when the car didn’t originally have them, at a high price.
Scan Quote for Overlap →