This procedure covers removal and replacement of the headlight assembly on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L engine, including proper disconnection and torque specifications.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off headlights and remove key from ignition
3. Allow headlight assemblies to cool if recently used
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Access headlight assembly
   Locate the headlight assembly from the engine bay. Identify the three mounting bolts securing the headlight assembly to the front fascia and radiator support. Note the positions of the upper and lower mounting points.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the main headlight electrical connector on the rear of the headlight assembly. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight back to disconnect. If equipped with separate connectors for high beam, low beam, and turn signal, disconnect all applicable connectors.
3. 3

   Remove upper mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the two upper headlight assembly mounting bolts. These bolts secure the top of the headlight to the radiator support. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove lower mounting bolt
   Locate and remove the lower headlight assembly mounting bolt using a 10mm socket. This bolt secures the bottom of the headlight assembly to the front fascia support bracket.
5. 5

   Remove headlight assembly
   Carefully pull the headlight assembly forward and away from the vehicle. Tilt the assembly slightly outward from the center of the vehicle to clear any alignment tabs. Remove the assembly completely from the vehicle and set aside on a clean, protected surface.
6. 6

   Prepare new headlight assembly
   Inspect the new headlight assembly for any shipping damage. Ensure all mounting tabs and alignment pins are intact. If transferring bulbs from old assembly, carefully remove bulbs by rotating counterclockwise and install in new assembly. Do not touch bulb glass with bare hands.
7. 7

   Install new headlight assembly
   Position the new headlight assembly into the mounting location, aligning the assembly tabs with the body slots. Ensure the assembly is seated flush against the radiator support and front fascia before installing bolts. Verify proper alignment with adjacent panels and grille.
8. 8

   Install mounting bolts
   Install the two upper mounting bolts and one lower mounting bolt finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all three bolts are started, torque each bolt to specification using a torque wrench in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the assembly.
   Torque spec

   Headlight Assembly Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Reconnect all electrical connectors to the rear of the headlight assembly. Ensure each connector clicks firmly into place and the locking tab engages. Verify connectors are fully seated by gently pulling on them.
10. 10

    Test headlight operation
    Turn the ignition to the ON position and test all headlight functions including low beam, high beam, turn signal, and parking light (if applicable). Verify proper operation before closing hood.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Check headlight assembly alignment with adjacent body panels and opposite side headlight
3. Ensure no gaps exist between headlight assembly and front fascia

Verification

• Test low beam, high beam, and turn signal functions on the replaced headlight
• Verify headlight beam pattern aims properly (perform headlight aim adjustment if necessary using adjuster screws)
• Inspect for any warning lights on instrument cluster
• Check for proper seating of assembly with no rattles or movement when gently pressed

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