Front headlight unit replacement

J

JustCruzin

Member
Sorry if this has been covered a zillion times. I am replacing my front headlamp units for some clear ones and I was wondering whether anyone had any tips or advice on doing this. I read an excellent thread in the 'how' to section on removing the front spoiler/bumper and it seems this needs to be removed to allow access to the headlamp retaining mechanism.

The units I am replacing are the standard non-xenon type. Are there any major technicalities. I consider myself moderately skilled (have done timing belts and water pump replacements on Swedish vehicles).

Any advice very much appreciated.

Cheers

Arif
 
Assuming you are replacing like for like then no wiring or programming issues.

Just look really carefully at the alignment and positioning and mark the bolts so when you undo the old you can put the replacement in the exact same position, else it's bumper on and off a few times to align everything by trial and error.

Don't forget to tget the beams adjusted and aligned once fitted
 
CJ's the headlight master so nothing to add in response to the question. If you check the link in my sig that will give you some pictures (scroll down for the front).

It's a little extra expense, but I'd put in the Philips brighter bulbs.

Dropped by an MOT place after and they checked the alignment for me for the price of a drink :thumbsup:
 
:D Thanks for the advice! Will give it a go shortly. I am fitting like for like for the time being so hopefully there won't be any wiring issues.

Hope you don't mind, one last question- is aligning the bumper assembly a real pain? Is it worth have a third arm handy to help out?

Thanks again

Arif
 
Aligning the bumper was easy - clips into place... getting the lights right is the issue. Another person would help, I sat mine on a box that held it just at the right height. Not sure if CJ or anyone else has any better suggestions.

Good luck... don't forget the photos!

Actually, only wiring issue someone has had with Halogens was the indicator, but was an easy fix. Mine were fine.
 
Easiest way to fit the bumper imho is to loosly fasten it on with a couple of turns of the central bonnet torx bolt, without the the metal clamp.

That holds it in about the right position while you work ont he various other clamps. Once you get it about right take the bolt out, put the metal clamp on and insert all the torx. From there it's just a case of getting the right crease lines and gaps aligned

I do the same as I take it off, using 1 bolt as a holding point. Never dropped it on the floor and fitted and removed it a dozen times in the last 3 years, on my own :thumbsdown:
 
:) Many thanks to you both for this really great stuff. I'm a wee bit nervous but the worst that can happen is that I fail and you will be bombarded for more advice! :poke:

No seriously thanks CJ and 'PS'

Will post some hopefully positive results wit pics real soon.

Cheers

Arif
 
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