Having operative headlights is crucial to driving safely (as well as driving legally), and when a headlight burns out or breaks you should replace it immediately. Most cars and trucks are designed so that you can change the headlights at home, and Dodge Dakotas are no different. The layout under the hood varies a bit between model years, but if you've got your owner's manual, everything should be fine.

Parts

Vehicle manufacturers change designs and parts from year to year, but things like headlights (also known as headlamps) are less frequently changed, and you may get lucky with a local auto parts store. The store can help you choose the correct headlight for your Dakota, but you can also bring in the old headlights as a reference.

Safety Measures

Because you will be working with an electrical component, turn off the truck as well as the headlights. Open the hood and disconnect the battery's negative cable (negative will be black while positive is red) to ensure that no electricity flows from the battery while you are working.

Removal and Installation

Depending on your Dakota model, there could be several bolts and components holding the headlight in place. (Refer to your owner's manual for specific placement of these on your truck model.) Unscrew the bolts and put them into a safe container. It is also a good idea to label or organize the parts you remove so you know how to put them back. Grasping the headlight firmly, gently pull it out of its cradle. Before pulling it too far, disconnect the wiring connector at the back of the lamp by hand. Set the old lamp aside. Some auto parts stores offer disposal, but for the most part you just throw away broken headlights. Reverse the above process with your new headlight, making sure to reconnect the wiring connector, bolt the lamp securely and reattach the battery negative cable.

Source:

OnlineFreeBooks.net: Repair Manual for 2003 Dodge Dakota