I would say that the bulb is probably burned out. More than likely, if it was a fuse or switch, neither headlight would light. But, it doesn't hurt to check your fuse box anyway, just to be safe.
As far as the rest. I would check the wires leading to the headlight for cracks in the insulation, breaks in the wires, and loose connections and make sure that the wires aren't rubbing against anything causing breaks in the insulation that would cause a short circuit. You also might want to check the socket itself for good contact and make sure that there isn't any corrosion in the socket. Some parts stores sell a special lube/grease that goes into the socket to prevent corrosion. Also, make sure that there isn't any damage to the headlight housing itself. If there is damage to the housing letting debris, dirt, and moisture directly into the housing it should be addressed before replacement of the bulb if at all possible.
Bulbs do have a life expectancy so if one burns out the other is probably not far behind. That is why they always suggest replacing them in pairs.
On newer bulbs, they can blow from simple things like greasy fingerprints or too much moisture in the headlight housing.
Indeed, most packaging states that you should handle the bulb carefully, do not drop, scratch the surface, etc. and you should always handle the bulb by the base of the bulb, (the plastic part that actually plugs in). If not, you can significantly reduce the lifespan of the bulb.
I have heard that if you get fingerprints on the glass portion of the bulb it can be cleaned with a clean lint free cloth and some rubbing alchohol. Check the packaging and talk to the poeple at the automotive store where you shop and they should be able to help you a little more.
I would also go to a parts store, (O'Reilly's, AutoZone, etc.), and get a repair manual for that year and type of vehicle, (Chilton, Haynes, etc.).
They are fairly cheap and if you are planning on doing several repairs over the course of ownership of the vehicle, they are worth it. It very well could pay for itself the first time you use it vs. what you would pay an automotive technician/mechanic to do the same job.
If you sell the vehicle to another individual later on you could even toss the manual in with the vehicle.
I hope this helps.How to Change a Lightbulb in a Headlamp of a 2004 dodge stratus?1. unscrew old bulb
2. have a beer
3. screw in new bulbHow to Change a Lightbulb in a Headlamp of a 2004 dodge stratus?Lol is this a serious question?
Unscrew old on
Screw in new one
