Disconnect the Negative Terminal of the Battery:
Begin by disconnecting the negative terminal of the car's battery to ensure that the electrical system is off before starting the replacement.
Unbolt the Lower Bolt:
Locate the two bolts that hold the headlight assembly in place. The lower bolt is towards the bottom of the assembly and can be accessed from the front of the car. Use a wrench or socket to remove this bolt.
Unbolt the Upper Bolt:
Next, identify and remove the upper bolt that secures the headlight assembly. This bolt is located behind the headlight assembly and may require the use of an extension to reach it.
Detach the Electrical Connectors:
Once both bolts are removed, gently pull the headlight assembly forward to disconnect the electrical connectors attached to the back. Disconnect the connectors by pressing on the retaining tabs while gently pulling them out.
Remove the Headlight Assembly:
After disconnecting the connectors, carefully lift and remove the headlight assembly from the car. Be cautious as the assembly may still be connected by wires near the bottom. Disconnect any remaining wires or clips to completely free the assembly.
Install the New Assembly:
Take your new headlight assembly and align it correctly in the empty housing. Connect any wire harness or clip removed during removal.
Secure the Assembly:
Replace the upper and lower bolts removed earlier to secure the new assembly in place. Hand-tighten them at first, and then use the wrench or socket to tighten them securely.
Reconnect the Electrical Connectors:
Reconnect the electrical connectors that you disconnected earlier. Carefully click them into place until you hear them snap or feel them firmly secure.
Reconnect the Battery:
Reconnect the negative terminal of the car battery that was disconnected in step 1.
Test Functionality:
Before completing the replacement, turn the headlights on and check if the new headlight assembly is working correctly.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace the headlight assembly on a 1997 Subaru Legacy Outback.
