This procedure covers the removal and installation of LED headlight modules on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK with the 3.6L V6 engine, including electrical connections and proper alignment.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• LED Headlight Module (Driver Side) × 1 — OEM or aftermarket LED headlight assembly
• LED Headlight Module (Passenger Side) × 1 — OEM or aftermarket LED headlight assembly
• Headlight mounting ring × 2 — Use existing if not damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts
5. Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Loosen and remove the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket. Move the cable away from the battery post and secure it so it cannot make contact during the repair.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access headlight assembly
   From the engine bay, locate the headlight assembly behind the grille. You will see the rear of the headlight housing with electrical connectors and the mounting ring. Note the position of all connectors before removal.
3. 3

   Disconnect headlight electrical connectors
   Press the release tab on the main headlight connector and pull straight back to disconnect. If equipped with a separate parking light connector on the factory halogen housing, disconnect it as well. For LED modules with integrated connectors, verify the new module matches your vehicle's connector type.
4. 4

   Remove headlight mounting ring
   Rotate the headlight mounting ring counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it releases from the headlight bucket. The ring has three tabs that align with slots in the bucket. Pull the ring forward and away from the housing.
5. 5

   Remove factory headlight assembly
   With the mounting ring removed, carefully pull the headlight assembly straight forward out of the headlight bucket. The assembly should come out freely once the ring is removed. Inspect the bucket for debris or corrosion.
6. 6

   Prepare headlight bucket and ground connection
   Clean the headlight bucket opening and verify the ground connection point is clean and free of corrosion. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to clean any ground contact surfaces if necessary. This ensures proper electrical connection for the LED module.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Install new LED headlight module
   Carefully insert the new LED headlight module into the headlight bucket, aligning the tabs on the module with the slots in the bucket. Ensure all adjustment tabs are properly seated and the module sits flush against the bucket seal.
8. 8

   Secure mounting ring
   Install the headlight mounting ring by aligning the three tabs with the slots in the headlight bucket. Push the ring in and rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks into place. Verify the ring is fully seated and secure.
9. 9

   Connect electrical connectors
   Connect the headlight electrical connector to the LED module by aligning the connector and pushing firmly until you hear or feel a click. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is locked in place. If the LED module requires additional adapters or anti-flicker harnesses, install them according to manufacturer instructions.
10. 10

    Repeat for opposite side
    Repeat steps 2 through 9 for the opposite side headlight assembly. Ensure both modules are the same model and properly oriented (driver vs passenger side if applicable).
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten to specification. Turn the ignition to the ON position and test all headlight functions including low beam, high beam, and parking lights if integrated. Verify both modules illuminate properly.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Adjust headlight aim
    Using the vertical and horizontal adjustment screws accessible from the engine bay, adjust headlight aim according to DOT specifications. The vertical adjuster is typically located at the top of the headlight bucket, and the horizontal adjuster on the side. Proper aim is critical for visibility and avoiding blinding oncoming traffic.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Confirm both headlight mounting rings are properly secured
3. Check that no tools or parts were left in the engine bay
4. Test all headlight functions before driving

Verification

• With ignition on, verify low beam headlights illuminate on both sides
• Activate high beams and confirm both modules switch to high beam mode
• Check for proper headlight aim - low beams should illuminate the road ahead without blinding oncoming traffic
• Verify no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster (some vehicles may require resistor installation to prevent bulb-out warnings)
• Inspect for any loose connections or components in the engine bay
• Test drive in dark conditions to verify adequate illumination and proper aim

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