This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the LED headlight module assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• LED headlight module assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground with parking brake engaged and ignition off
2. Turn headlight switch to OFF position
3. Allow headlights to cool for at least 30 minutes if recently operated
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod
5. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes to allow electrical system to discharge

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the terminal from the battery post and secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental reconnection during the procedure.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove front grille upper cover
   Locate and remove the plastic cover clips along the top edge of the front grille using a trim removal tool. Gently pull the upper grille cover forward and up to release it from the mounting tabs. Set aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove headlight access panel
   Behind the headlight assembly in the engine bay, locate the circular or rectangular access panel. Rotate counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn or release the retaining clips to remove the access panel. This exposes the rear of the headlight assembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect headlight electrical connectors
   Through the access opening, locate the main LED module connector (large multi-pin connector). Press the release tab and pull straight back to disconnect. Next, disconnect the DRL/position light connector if equipped as a separate connector. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reassembly.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires themselves; always grip the connector body to prevent wire damage.
5. 5

   Remove headlight module mounting bolts
   Locate the three mounting bolts securing the headlight assembly: one at the top center (accessible from above), one at the inner edge near the radiator support, and one at the outer edge near the fender. Using an 8mm socket with extension, remove all three bolts completely and store them safely.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Release headlight module from mounting clips
   The headlight assembly is retained by both bolts and plastic locating clips. Carefully pull the headlight assembly forward from the front of the vehicle while maintaining slight upward pressure. The bottom clip should release as you pull forward. If resistance is felt, do not force; verify all bolts are removed.
   ⚠The module weighs approximately 5-7 lbs and is awkward to hold. Use both hands and support from underneath to prevent dropping.
7. 7

   Remove headlight module from vehicle
   Once the mounting clips are released, carefully guide the headlight assembly out of the mounting position, navigating around any remaining brackets or wiring. Tilt slightly if needed to clear the fender and radiator support. Place the removed module on a clean, padded surface with the lens facing up.
8. 8

   Prepare new headlight module
   Remove the new LED headlight module from its packaging carefully. Inspect for any shipping damage. Verify that all seals and gaskets are properly seated. Do not remove any protective films from adjustment screws at this time. Wear clean gloves to handle the new module.
9. 9

   Install new headlight module into position
   Carefully align the new headlight module with the mounting position. Insert the assembly from the front, angling as necessary to clear the fender and radiator support. Ensure the bottom locating clip engages its slot and the alignment pins on the back of the module fit into the corresponding holes in the radiator support.
10. 10

    Install and torque mounting bolts
    Hand-thread all three mounting bolts (top, inner, and outer positions) to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, torque each bolt to specification in a star pattern using an 8mm socket and torque wrench. Verify the headlight assembly sits flush against the radiator support and fender.
    ⚠Over-torquing can crack the plastic mounting brackets on the headlight assembly. Use a calibrated torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Route the wiring harness as noted during removal. Connect the main LED module connector first, pushing firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Connect the DRL/position light connector if equipped. Gently tug on each connector to verify secure connection.
12. 12

    Reinstall headlight access panel
    Position the access panel over the opening behind the headlight assembly. Rotate clockwise 1/4 turn or press until retaining clips engage fully. Verify the panel is secure and sealed properly.
13. 13

    Reinstall front grille upper cover
    Align the upper grille cover with its mounting tabs and press firmly into position. Reinstall all retaining clips along the top edge, ensuring each clip is fully seated and secure.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Clean the battery terminal and post if any corrosion is present. Reconnect the negative battery terminal to the battery post and torque the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
3. Confirm headlight assembly is flush with surrounding body panels with no gaps
4. Check that access panels and covers are properly secured

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and activate headlights to verify LED module illuminates properly
• Check low beam, high beam, and DRL functions operate correctly
• Verify turn signal and position lights function if integrated into the headlight assembly
• Inspect for any error messages on the instrument cluster
• Visually confirm no light leaks around the headlight assembly seals
• Check headlight aim and adjust if necessary using adjustment screws (separate procedure)
• Test drive vehicle after dark to confirm proper headlight operation and beam pattern

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