This procedure covers the removal and replacement of both left and right headlight assemblies on a 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla with the 1.8L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Left headlight assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• Right headlight assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Allow engine to cool if recently operated
4. Open hood and prop securely

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm wrench, loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt and remove the cable from the battery post. Secure the cable away from the battery to prevent accidental reconnection.
   Torque spec

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

   Access driver side headlight assembly
   From the engine bay, locate the rear of the driver side headlight assembly. Disconnect the main headlight electrical connector by pressing the release tab and pulling straight back. If equipped with DRL or turn signal connectors on the assembly, disconnect those as well.
3. 3

   Remove driver side headlight mounting bolts
   Locate the three 10mm mounting bolts securing the headlight assembly. There is typically one bolt on top accessible from above, and two bolts accessible from the side/front. Remove all three mounting bolts completely using a 10mm socket with extension as needed.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove driver side headlight assembly
   Gently pull the headlight assembly forward and toward the front of the vehicle to disengage it from the mounting tabs. The assembly slides forward and then lifts out. Be careful not to scratch the fender or bumper cover during removal.
5. 5

   Access passenger side headlight assembly
   Move to the passenger side of the engine bay. Disconnect the main headlight electrical connector by pressing the release tab and pulling straight back. Disconnect any additional connectors for DRL or turn signal bulbs as equipped.
6. 6

   Remove passenger side headlight mounting bolts
   Locate and remove the three 10mm mounting bolts securing the passenger side headlight assembly. Access points are similar to the driver side: one from above and two from the side/front. Remove all three bolts completely.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove passenger side headlight assembly
   Pull the headlight assembly forward to disengage the mounting tabs, then lift the assembly out of the vehicle. Take care not to damage surrounding body panels during removal.
8. 8

   Prepare new headlight assemblies
   Inspect new headlight assemblies for shipping damage. If bulbs are not pre-installed, transfer bulbs from old assemblies or install new bulbs according to bulb type. Avoid touching halogen bulb glass. Ensure all bulbs are properly seated and locked into position.
9. 9

   Install passenger side headlight assembly
   Position the new passenger side headlight assembly by inserting the mounting tabs into their slots first, then pushing the assembly rearward until it seats flush against the mounting surface. Ensure proper alignment with the bumper cover and fender before installing bolts.
10. 10

    Install passenger side mounting bolts
    Install the three 10mm mounting bolts hand-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all three bolts are started, torque them to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the assembly.
    Torque spec

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

    Reconnect passenger side electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the passenger side headlight assembly. Ensure each connector clicks into place and is fully seated. Verify bulb connections are secure if they were separately connected.
12. 12

    Install driver side headlight assembly
    Position the new driver side headlight assembly by engaging the mounting tabs first, then push the assembly rearward until flush with the mounting surface. Verify alignment with adjacent body panels.
13. 13

    Install driver side mounting bolts
    Install the three 10mm mounting bolts hand-tight, then torque to specification in a cross pattern. Ensure the headlight assembly remains properly aligned during tightening.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reconnect driver side electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the driver side headlight assembly. Press each connector firmly until it clicks into place. Tug gently to verify secure connection.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Reinstall the negative battery cable to the battery post. Tighten the battery terminal bolt to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal or battery post.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Confirm headlight assemblies are flush with body panels and gaps are even
3. Check that all mounting bolts are torqued to specification

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and activate headlights to verify both low beams function
• Activate high beams and verify both headlights switch to high beam mode
• Test turn signals on both sides to verify proper operation
• Verify DRL (daytime running lights) function if equipped
• Visually inspect headlight aim by observing beam pattern on a wall or garage door from 25 feet away - both beams should be level and aimed properly
• Schedule professional headlight aim adjustment if beams appear misaligned or if required by local regulations

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