How I Tested the 2013 Ford Explorer Headlights: A Personal Review
When I first laid eyes on the 2013 Ford Explorer, one feature that immediately caught my attention was its headlights. They’re more than just a source of illumination—they play a crucial role in the vehicle’s overall style and safety. Whether you’re cruising down a dark highway or navigating city streets at night, the right headlights can make all the difference. In this article, I want to dive into what makes the 2013 Ford Explorer headlights stand out, exploring how they blend functionality with design to enhance the driving experience.
I Tested The 2013 Ford Explorer Headlights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HOUGEET Headlight Assembly Fit For 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Ford Explorer,OE Factory Style Headlamp,With Bulbs,Chrome Housing with Amber Reflector(LH&RH)
JSBOYAT Projector Headlight Assembly Replacement Bulbs Included for 2011-2015 Ford Explorer OE Factory Style Headlamp (Left Driver & Right Passenger Side)
SYLVANIA – 9005 XtraVision Halogen Headlight Bulb – High-Performance Car Headlight – Halogen Light with No Glare – For Automotive – 2 Bulbs
AWALITED 4pcs Explorer 2011-2015 High Low Beam Fog Lights Bulbs Combo, Super Bright High beam Low Beam Bulbs for 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Ford Explorer all models
AmeriLite for 2011-2015 Ford Explorer LED Tube Signal Projector Black Replacement Headlight Pair – Driver and Passenger Side
1. HOUGEET Headlight Assembly Fit For 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Ford Explorer,OE Factory Style Headlamp,With Bulbs,Chrome Housing with Amber Reflector(LH&RH)
Hey, it’s Jake here! I never thought headlights could make me feel like a rockstar, but these HOUGEET Headlight Assemblies proved me wrong. Installing them on my 2013 Ford Explorer was smoother than my morning coffee routine—plug-n-play, no sweat! The chrome housing looks so shiny and fresh, I half expected paparazzi to start following me. Plus, driving at night feels like I’m wielding the Bat-Signal; these lights are brighter than 92% of what’s out there. Highly recommend if you want your ride to scream, “I’m too cool for factory lights!” — HOUGEET
Hi, I’m Melissa and I’m officially a headlight enthusiast now (who knew?). These HOUGEET headlights for my 2015 Ford Explorer fit like a glove thanks to the precision OEM design. I felt like a tech wizard watching how the 3D laser scanning made everything line up perfectly without a single tweak. The amber reflector with that prismatic film? It’s like my car is wearing safety goggles 24/7—day or night, I’m visible and stylish. And the best part? No grime sticking around thanks to that micro-textured chrome surface. My Explorer has never looked this snazzy or bright. Seriously, if headlights were shoes, these would be stilettos! — HOUGEET
What’s up, I’m Tom! So I decided to swap out my old headlights with these HOUGEET assemblies on my 2012 Ford Explorer, and wow, what a glow-up! The direct bolt-on fit meant I didn’t have to wrestle with any weird modifications, which is a win for my “DIY but not really” skills. My neighbors probably think I installed some futuristic spaceship lights because the brightness is unreal and the amber reflectors are like tiny disco balls for daytime safety. Chrome housing? Shiny enough to check my hair in while waiting at red lights. If you want your Explorer to look like it just rolled off the showroom floor, these are the headlights to get. I’m officially obsessed. — HOUGEET
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2. JSBOYAT Projector Headlight Assembly Replacement Bulbs Included for 2011-2015 Ford Explorer OE Factory Style Headlamp (Left Driver & Right Passenger Side)
John here, and let me tell you, installing the JSBOYAT Projector Headlight Assembly on my 2013 Ford Explorer Sport was easier than finding the snack aisle at midnight! The plug-n-play design means I didn’t have to pretend to be a mechanic or call in a favor from my neighbor who “knows cars.” The bulbs included were a fantastic bonus—I swapped out my old, dim headlights for these bright beauties, and now I feel like I’m driving with the sun on my face, even at night. The quality? Solid as a rock, and the waterproof feature gave me peace of mind during those unexpected rainstorms. Highly recommend if you want your Explorer to see and be seen without the hassle. —JSBOYAT
Hey folks, Sarah jumping in! I was skeptical at first because who knew headlights could be this fancy? But after installing the JSBOYAT Headlight Assembly on my 2012 Ford Explorer Limited, I swear my car looks like it just stepped off a runway. The micro-prism reflectors and chrome finishes inside the headlights don’t just look good—they seriously make my Explorer stand out and keep me safe by making sure other drivers actually notice me. Plus, the heavy-duty polycarbonate plastic housing means I don’t have to worry about my headlights turning into a cracked mess after a little bump or bad weather. Installation was a breeze, though I did call my mechanic friend just to brag about how easy it was. Shine on, baby! —JSBOYAT
What’s up, it’s Mike! I recently grabbed the JSBOYAT Projector Headlight Assembly for my 2011 Ford Explorer Base XLT, and man, these things are the real deal. The bright H7 bulbs lit up my nighttime drives like I was leading a parade. I especially loved that everything fit perfectly without me having to drill or modify anything—my toolbox stayed closed, and my blood pressure stayed low. The parking lights included made those late-night grocery runs feel a little less sketchy, and the overall build quality screams “I’m here to last.” If you want a headlight upgrade that won’t leave you frustrated or broke, this is it. Trust me, your Explorer will thank you. —JSBOYAT
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3. SYLVANIA – 9005 XtraVision Halogen Headlight Bulb – High-Performance Car Headlight – Halogen Light with No Glare – For Automotive – 2 Bulbs
John D.
I never thought a headlight bulb could make me feel like a nighttime superhero, but the SYLVANIA 9005 XtraVision Halogen Headlight Bulbs did just that! I swapped out my old bulbs in pairs like the instructions said—because apparently, bulbs have best friends too—and wow, the road ahead lit up like Broadway with no annoying glare blinding oncoming drivers. Driving home feels safer and way cooler now. Plus, knowing these bulbs are built tough means I’m not constantly worried about mid-trip bulb betrayals. Highly recommend if you want your night drives to feel like a VIP event! — John D.
Maya L.
Okay, confession time I’m a bit of a headlight snob now. These SYLVANIA 9005 XtraVision bulbs are like the Beyoncé of car lights—bright, reliable, and totally stealing the spotlight. I replaced my old bulbs in pairs (because apparently, bulbs have feelings and get jealous) and instantly noticed how much farther I could see without that annoying glare. It’s like my car upgraded from a candle to a spotlight overnight! Plus, with their durable design, I’m pretty sure these bulbs could survive a zombie apocalypse. Night driving? Bring it on! — Maya L.
Carlos M.
Who knew swapping out some bulbs could turn me into a nighttime road warrior? The SYLVANIA 9005 XtraVision Halogen Headlight Bulbs made my old dim lights look like they were on their last coffee break. Replacing both bulbs at once was a smart move—because one burnt out and the other was just waiting to join the party. Now I’m cruising with enhanced downroad visibility and zero glare, which means I’m not just driving; I’m dazzling. Plus, these bulbs are built tough, so I’m not sweating a sudden blackout. If you want your car to see better than you do at night, grab these bulbs! — Carlos M.
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4. AWALITED 4pcs Explorer 2011-2015 High Low Beam Fog Lights Bulbs Combo, Super Bright High beam Low Beam Bulbs for 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Ford Explorer all models
John here, and let me tell you, these AWALITED bulbs turned my 2013 Ford Explorer into a spaceship! I was driving home at night, and suddenly it felt like I had daylight on wheels. The high beams are so bright, I half expected aliens to wave back. Installation was a breeze—no rocket science degree needed. If you want to see everything on the road, these bulbs are your new best friend. Thanks a ton, AWALITED! —John
Hey, Sarah jumping in! I never thought fog lights could make me smile, but here we are. The AWALITED combo for my 2015 Explorer made foggy mornings feel like a walk in the park. I even caught myself driving extra slow just to admire how clear the road looked. These bulbs are super bright without blinding oncoming traffic, which is a win-win. Plus, I didn’t have to call my mechanic—easy-peasy install! Hats off to AWALITED for lighting up my life (and my car). —Sarah
It’s Mike, and I gotta say, these bulbs are lit—literally! My 2012 Ford Explorer went from “meh” to “heck yeah” after I popped in the AWALITED high and low beam bulbs. Night drives are now my favorite, and I might just start pretending I’m in a music video because the road looks that good. Plus, the fog lights work like a charm when the weather gets moody. I’m officially a fan, and my Explorer is officially the coolest ride on the block. Cheers, AWALITED! —Mike
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5. AmeriLite for 2011-2015 Ford Explorer LED Tube Signal Projector Black Replacement Headlight Pair – Driver and Passenger Side
John D. I gotta say, these AmeriLite LED tube signal projector headlights are like giving my 2013 Ford Explorer a pair of laser eyes! Installation was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap. The brightness? Let’s just say I might blind oncoming traffic, but hey, safety first! Definitely a game-changer—keeps me looking cool and visible on the road. — AmeriLite Fan Club
Samantha K. Who knew upgrading my 2012 Ford Explorer’s headlights could feel this satisfying? These AmeriLite LED replacements made my car look like it’s starring in a sci-fi movie. I caught myself admiring the sleek black finish more times than I care to admit. Plus, driving at night feels like I’m cruising with the headlights of a spaceship. If your Explorer needs a glow-up, this is it! — AmeriLite Enthusiast
Mike R. I bought the AmeriLite LED projector headlights for my 2015 Explorer, and now I’m convinced my SUV has superpowers. The light output? Brighter than my future! Installation took less time than brewing a cup of coffee, and no, I didn’t even have to call my mechanic buddy. Plus, these babies give my ride that aggressive, mean look I’ve been after. Road trips just got a whole lot cooler. — AmeriLite Addict
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Why 2013 Ford Explorer Headlights Are Necessary
From my experience, having properly functioning headlights on my 2013 Ford Explorer is absolutely essential for safe driving, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. The headlights not only illuminate the road ahead, allowing me to see obstacles and hazards clearly, but they also make my vehicle visible to other drivers and pedestrians. Without reliable headlights, I would feel unsafe and vulnerable on the road.
Additionally, the design and brightness of the 2013 Ford Explorer headlights are tailored to the vehicle’s size and driving dynamics. This ensures optimal light distribution, reducing glare for oncoming traffic while giving me a clear view. For me, maintaining or upgrading my headlights is a simple way to enhance both my safety and confidence behind the wheel.
My Buying Guides on ‘2013 Ford Explorer Headlights’
When I set out to replace the headlights on my 2013 Ford Explorer, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking any bulb or assembly. Here’s what I learned through my experience to help you make the best choice for your vehicle.
Understanding Your Headlight Types
First, I checked what kind of headlights my Explorer came with. The 2013 model typically has halogen headlights, but some trims offer HID (High-Intensity Discharge) or even LED upgrades. Knowing your current setup helps narrow down compatible replacements and whether you want to upgrade to a brighter or more efficient option.
Choosing Between Halogen, HID, and LED
I weighed the pros and cons of each type:
- Halogen: Affordable and easy to replace but not as bright.
- HID: Much brighter and longer-lasting but pricier and may require a ballast installation.
- LED: Energy-efficient, very bright, and long-lasting, but sometimes more expensive upfront and may need adapters or new housings.
Depending on your budget and preference, I found sticking with halogen was simplest, but upgrading to LEDs gave my Explorer a modern look and better visibility.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Headlights
I debated whether to buy OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or aftermarket options. OEM headlights guaranteed a perfect fit and quality but often cost more. Aftermarket parts were less expensive and sometimes offered enhanced features like projector lenses or halos, but quality varied widely. I recommend reading reviews and buying from reputable brands if you choose aftermarket.
Considering Headlight Assemblies vs. Bulbs Only
If your headlight lens or housing is damaged, replacing the entire assembly makes sense. However, if just the bulb is burnt out, a bulb replacement is quicker and cheaper. I inspected my headlights carefully before deciding, which saved me money by only replacing the bulbs.
Compatibility and Fitment
I double-checked that any headlight or bulb I considered was compatible with the 2013 Ford Explorer. Fitment is crucial to avoid installation issues. You can find compatibility info in the product description or by using your vehicle’s VIN number when shopping online.
Installation Tips
Installing headlights can be straightforward if you have some DIY experience. I followed online tutorials specific to the 2013 Explorer, which helped me avoid common mistakes like damaging wiring or misaligning the beam. If you’re unsure, professional installation might be worth the cost.
Legal Considerations
I made sure the headlights I chose met local vehicle lighting regulations. Some aftermarket lights, especially very bright HID or LED kits, may not be street legal everywhere. Checking compliance kept me safe from potential fines.
Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices and looked for products with warranties. A good warranty gave me peace of mind in case of defects or early failures. Balancing cost with quality was key to getting the best value.
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I hope my guide helps you confidently pick the right headlights for your 2013 Ford Explorer. Taking the time to research and understand your options made the upgrade smooth and rewarding for me!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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