How to Replace Headlight 02-04 Nissan Altima Sedan
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 50 min · Nissan Altima
Replace a headlight bulb or the full headlight assembly on a 2002-2004 Nissan Altima sedan.
Tools you will need
- Ratchet
- Socket extensions
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- 10mm socket
Parts and supplies
- Headlight bulb
- Headlight assembly
- Turn signal bulb
Steps
- Remove the old headlight
Remove the inner fender's Phillips screw and pull it back, remove the two 10mm bolts behind it, pry off the bumper cover's plastic clips, remove the two 10mm bolts at the top of the headlight bracket, pull the bumper cover out, remove the 10mm bolt underneath the headlight, then pull it out and disconnect its harnesses.
- Swap the bulbs if needed
Twist each bulb's base counterclockwise and pull it out, insert the new one and twist clockwise; for the main bulb, twist its cover off, disconnect the wiring clips, pull up the wire retainer, push the new bulb in, then reverse the steps to close it back up.
- Install the new headlight
Transfer the turn signal bulb to the new light, reconnect the headlight's wiring harnesses, seat it and tighten its top, bottom and side 10mm bolts, push the bumper cover back into place, refit the inner fender and its two 10mm bolts and Phillips screw, then clip the bumper cover's plastic clips back in.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.