This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the headlight assembly on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including disconnecting electrical connectors and adjusting beam alignment.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight assembly (left or right as needed) × 1 — 81130-06xxx (Left) or 81170-06xxx (Right) depending on model year
• Push-type retainer clips × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn ignition off
2. Open hood and secure with prop rod
3. Allow headlights to cool if vehicle was recently operated
4. If desired, mark adjuster screw positions with tape or take reference photos for alignment
5. Disconnect negative battery terminal if working with HID or LED headlights (recommended for safety)

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove front grille upper cover
   Locate the plastic cover panel above the grille and headlight area. Remove the Phillips screws securing the upper radiator cover (typically 4-6 screws). Lift the cover away to access the headlight assembly mounting bolts.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Disconnect headlight electrical connector
   Reach behind the headlight assembly and locate the main electrical connector. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight back to disconnect. For models with daytime running lights or additional bulbs, disconnect all electrical connectors from the rear of the assembly.
3. 3

   Remove upper headlight mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the two upper mounting bolts securing the top of the headlight assembly to the radiator support. These bolts are accessible from the engine bay once the cover is removed. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Headlight Assembly Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove lower headlight mounting bolt
   Locate the lower mounting bolt at the bottom corner of the headlight assembly, accessible from above or through the wheel well area. Remove this 10mm bolt to free the assembly from the lower mounting point.
   Torque spec

   Headlight Assembly Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Release headlight assembly clips
   Gently pull the headlight assembly forward while checking for any remaining clips or tabs holding it in place. The assembly typically has alignment pins that fit into the fender and bumper. Rock the assembly gently side-to-side while pulling forward to release it from these engagement points.
6. 6

   Remove headlight assembly
   Once all fasteners and clips are released, carefully pull the headlight assembly straight forward and out of the vehicle. Be careful not to scratch the fender or bumper cover during removal. Set the assembly on a clean, soft surface lens-side up.
7. 7

   Transfer bulbs and components (if reusing)
   If installing a new headlight assembly, remove all bulbs, dust covers, and ballasts (if equipped) from the old assembly and transfer them to the new one. Twist bulb sockets counterclockwise to remove. Avoid touching halogen bulb glass with bare hands.
   ⚠Handle halogen bulbs only by the base. Oil from skin contact can cause premature bulb failure or hot spots.
8. 8

   Install new headlight assembly
   Position the new headlight assembly, aligning the mounting pins with the holes in the fender and bumper. Push the assembly firmly into place until it seats completely against the body panels. Ensure all alignment tabs are properly engaged before installing fasteners.
9. 9

   Install headlight mounting bolts
   Install the lower mounting bolt first, then the two upper mounting bolts. Thread all bolts by hand initially to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten all three headlight assembly mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern.
   Torque spec

   Headlight Assembly Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the back of the headlight assembly. Push each connector until it clicks into place. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is locked securely.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper cover panel
    Position the radiator upper cover and align all mounting points. Install the Phillips screws and torque to specification. Ensure the cover sits flush and all clips are properly engaged.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Test headlight operation
    Reconnect the battery if disconnected. Turn on the ignition and test all headlight functions: low beam, high beam, turn signal, and daytime running lights if equipped. Verify both headlights illuminate properly before final adjustment.
13. 13

    Adjust headlight aim
    Locate the vertical and horizontal adjustment screws on the back of the headlight assembly. Use these screws to adjust beam aim. The vertical adjuster is typically on top, horizontal on the side. Park 25 feet from a wall and adjust beams to manufacturer specifications or to match the opposite headlight pattern.
    ℹ️Proper headlight aim is critical for safe night driving and to avoid blinding oncoming traffic. Consider professional alignment if uncertain.
    Torque spec

    Adjuster Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify headlight assembly is flush with surrounding body panels with no gaps
3. Check that all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
4. Confirm no tools or parts were left in the engine bay

Verification

• Test low beam, high beam, and turn signal functions on the replaced headlight
• Verify headlight beam pattern matches the opposite side and does not point too high or low
• Check for proper sealing around the headlight assembly with no visible gaps or misalignment
• Inspect the area around the installation for any loose fasteners or disconnected components
• Take a short test drive at night to confirm proper illumination and aim

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