It sounds like you are trying to change the whole light unit, not just a bulb. If you are just changing a burnt-out headlight bulb, then, yes, it is done through an open hood. The two headlight bulbs, bright and dim, are locked into position by plastic rings. The driver's side bulbs are a little easier to access than the passenger side, but neither are difficult. The air cleaner intake, the black plastic needs to be lifted out of the way, but the battery doesn't have to be removed. If you bought a manual, bulb replacement should be covered.