These instructions apply to the Kia Stonic Mk1 (YB) 2017-Present.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
A blown headlight bulb is an MOT failure and easy to miss until someone flashes you. On the Kia Stonic (YB, 2017–present) the main headlight bulbs are reached from behind the headlamp in the engine bay, and on cars with the standard halogen headlights they are a DIY change. Cars with the full-LED GT-Line headlight are different — see the note below. Here is how the job goes.
Which Bulb Does the Stonic Use?
- Low / high beam (standard halogen headlamp): a single replaceable H4 (55/60W) halogen bulb handles both dip and main beam on most versions; some headlamp types split them. Always check the old bulb or your handbook for the exact code before buying.
- Front side/position light: a small W5W capless bulb.
- Front indicator: an amber PY21W bulb.
- Front fog (where fitted): an HB4 halogen bulb, reached from under the front bumper.
Handle halogen bulbs by the metal base only — skin oil on the glass shortens their life — and never touch a bulb that may still be hot.
How to Replace a Headlight Bulb
- Switch the lights and ignition off and open the bonnet. Work on one side at a time.
- Find the bulb cover on the back of the headlamp — a round rubber or plastic cap. On the Stonic you may need to move the washer-bottle neck or air intake slightly for access on one side.
- Unplug and unclip the bulb. Pull off the connector, then release the wire retaining clip (or twist the bulb holder, depending on type) and lift the old bulb out.
- Fit the new bulb the same way round, seating the locating tabs in their notches so the beam aims correctly. Don’t touch the glass.
- Clip it back in, refit the connector and the cover, then test the light before closing the bonnet.
GT-Line and LED Headlights
On Stonic versions with the LED daytime-running and position lamp, Kia states that the LED unit is sealed and cannot be replaced on its own — a failed LED DRL means a workshop visit. The main low/high beam on those cars is still a replaceable halogen bulb, but if your headlight is the full-LED type, bulb replacement is a dealer job rather than DIY.
Frequently Asked Questions
What headlight bulb does a Kia Stonic take?
The standard halogen headlamp uses an H4 (55/60W) bulb for low and high beam on most versions. Because headlamp types vary, check the code moulded on your old bulb or in the handbook before buying a replacement.
Can I change the bulb myself?
Yes on cars with the standard halogen headlights — the bulb is reached from behind the headlamp in the engine bay, with no need to remove the whole unit on most cars. Full-LED GT-Line headlights are not a DIY item.
Why did the new bulb blow quickly?
Usually because the glass was touched during fitting — skin oil creates a hot spot. Handle halogen bulbs by the base only, and wipe the glass with alcohol if you accidentally touch it.
One side is dimmer or yellowish — is that a bulb?
An ageing halogen bulb fades before it fails, so a dim or yellow side is a sign to replace it — and it’s worth changing both sides together so the beams match.
For more Stonic jobs see the full Kia Stonic guides, or look up a lighting fault code on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Kia. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.