How do you change a 2002 Kia Rio headlight?

Answer 1

HOW TO CHANGE A 2002 Kia RIO HEADLIGHT.

It's not very hard to replace and should only take 15 minutes. (I just did it for Grandma)

First get a replacement bulb 9003/HB2.

Open the hood and locate the three bolts that hold the headlight unit in.

Use a 10mm socket and remove the bolts.

Now comes the only tricky part. You must pull the whole assembly straight out towards you with a jerk. This will release the one attaching clip that is not visible. Don't try to pry the unit out you will just scratch the car or the lens. No he-man stuff either; you don't want to rip the wires out. A good straight tug should pop it loose.

Two wires only hold the light in at this point.

Next twist counterclockwise the turn signal socket and remove the bulb.

Now push the locking tab on the other wire/ socket and pull it out.

You should have the complete assembly in your hands.

On the back is a big round cap. Notice which way it fits. Turn it counter clockwise and it will come out.

Inside is the bulb. It's held in with a spring clip. Push the clip down and out from under it's holder and swing it up and out of the way.

Pull the old bulb out. Remove the wire plug by pulling it straight out, don't twist it.

Here's a tip! Handle the new bulb only by the metal edge. Grease and even skin oil are not good for the glass of the bulb. It needs to stay clean and dry to work properly.

Replace with the new bulb, plug it in and replace the spring clip.

Before you reassemble the whole works, turn on the headlights to make sure it lights up.

Time to put it back together.

Replace the big cap and put your signal bulb back in by twisting clockwise.

Position the unit so the clip lines up and pop it back in by giving it a short bump with the heal of your hand. You should feel it lock in.

Put the three 10mm bolts back in and...

YOUR DONE!! Congratulations you just saved at least 25 bucks.