Tools and Materials:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Socket wrench with a 10 mm socket
- Pry tool or flat-head screwdriver
- Replacement headlight assembly
- New headlight bulb (if needed)
1. Open the Hood:
- Open the hood of your Miata and secure it with the hood prop.
2. Remove the Headlight Cover:
- Locate the headlight cover on the driver's side.
- Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that secure the headlight cover.
- Lift and remove the headlight cover.
3. Disconnect the Electrical Connectors:
- Locate the electrical connectors behind the headlight assembly.
- Press the release tabs on the connectors and gently disconnect them.
4. Remove the Headlight Assembly:
- Use a 10 mm socket wrench to loosen the three bolts that hold the headlight assembly in place.
- Carefully remove the headlight assembly from the vehicle.
5. Transfer the Headlight Bulb (if needed):
- If the replacement assembly doesn't come with a bulb, you may need to transfer the old bulb from the original assembly to the new one.
- To do this, twist the bulb counterclockwise to remove it from the housing and install it in the new assembly by turning it clockwise until it's secure.
6. Install the New Headlight Assembly:
- Align the new headlight assembly with the mounting brackets and insert the three bolts.
- Tighten the bolts with the 10 mm socket wrench.
7. Reconnect the Electrical Connectors:
- Reconnect the electrical connectors that you disconnected earlier by aligning the plugs and pressing until they click into place.
8. Replace the Headlight Cover:
- Place the headlight cover back into position and secure it with the two screws you removed earlier.
9. Close the Hood:
- Close the hood of your Miata and ensure it is properly latched.
That's it! By following these steps, you should have successfully replaced the driver's side headlight assembly on your 1999 Mazda Miata.
