How to: headlamp replacement, 1999+ Grand Am

[sunrunner_pei]

Here are the steps to removing the headlamps on the 1999+ Grand Am:

http://www.gaownersclub.com/images/99_headlight/99_headlight1.jpg

Remove the fasteners and the splash shield (if equipped)
http://www.gaownersclub.com/images/99_headlight/99_headlight2.jpg

Lift the two speed clips
http://www.gaownersclub.com/images/99_headlight/99_headlight3.jpg

Lift the headlamp assembly foward, out of the mounting bracket
http://www.gaownersclub.com/images/99_headlight/99_headlight4.jpg

Twist the bulb assmebly retainer counterclockwise one-sixth of a turn and pull
http://www.gaownersclub.com/images/99_headlight/99_headlight5.jpg

To re-install, reverse the steps.

[DRMALIKIA]

Using the tutorial and the tips everyone has posted I just changed one headlight bulb out in about 5 minutes. It works very easily here is what you do . . . . .

1. Remove the splashguard.

(small tabs on top of plastic fasteners need to be popped with a screw driver first in order to pull fasteners out)


2. Pull quick release clips on opposite ends of headlamp assembly.

(each clip has a small tab towards the top that locks it into place, be sure to pull the clip backwards towards the engine and then pull it up. If clip won't budge, use a little WD40 on it)


3. Gently pull the headlamp assembly towards the front of the car being sure not to scratch your paint.

(this should bring the whole headlamp assembly unit out of the car to where only the wires attached to the bulbs are holding it to the vehicle)


4. Remove whatever power cord from the bulb your replacing using a simple screwdriver to lift the prongs


5. Remove retaining ring by twisting it counterclockwise, then place it on the side.

(main driving headlight) (the black plastic ring holding your bulb in the headlamp assembly, twist until it comes off, about a complete turn should be enough)


6. Next gentle wiggle the bubble with a slow side-to-side motion until the bulb is free.

(with lamp hole exposed be careful not to get debris or water into this opening as is will cause you trouble in the future)


7. Carefully insert your new bulb remembering not to touch it on any surface or the sides of the headlamp assembly opening. Make sure the bulb is seated completely into the housing.

(DO NOT TOUCH exposed bulb with your fingers as it will ruin the bulb, oils from your fingers can cause the bulb to burn out prematurely)


8. After inserting the bulb, replace the retaining ring by screwing it on in a clockwise motion until you are unable to turn it any further.

(again about one turn is all it takes to secure the ring)


9. Replace wiring on back of bulb.


10. TEST BULB!!!!

(get in your car turn the lights on and see if it works before putting the whole thing back together) (bulb works precede to step 12) (bulb doesn't work go to step 11) (if after a few attempts the bulb still doesn't work try it on the other head lamp to test it, your bulb might be bad or your wiring is bad, see a mechanic for further guidance)


11. BULB doesn't work, recheck your connection & wiring, look for exposed copper or bent plugs inside the wiring harness.

(make sure you turn the lights off as not to get electrocuted before you start messing with the wiring) (Go to step 10)


12. After testing the bulb, reinsert the headlamp assembly. This is done by lining up the three adjustment pegs. Each peg has a guidance slot it must slide into in order to be put back properly. There is one adjustment on the left side of the assembly and two on the right. Make sure these are properly positioned before sliding the headlamp assembly back into place.

(use a screw driver to gently push them in place as you insert the assembly, double check your work as you will have to dismantle the whole unit again in order to get proper alignment on your headlight beams)


13. Once headlamp assembly is in the proper position you should be able to press the quick release tabs down very easily. When they click, your finished.


14. Replace the splashguard using the plastic tabs.


15. With everything in place your ready to start blinding drivers with your new high power headlights.

(some adjustments to your beam angle might need to be performed after installation of your lamps)


16. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!

Tutorial Provided by DOC drmalikia@aol.com

[Travis99GT]

The adjustment and mounting pegs, be careful not to break those. Just now getting around to replacing both my headlights cause I broke one on both sides replacing bulbs :(