How do you replace the headlamp assembly - bulb on a 1986-1995 Sable?

Answer 1

For the 1986-1988 Taurus / Sables, the headlight assembly doesn't come out very easily - makes bulb replacement a job for someone with small hands.

Starting 1989, the headlamp assembly is much more easily removed, making headlight and turn signal bulb replacement a breeze.

According to the Chilton's manual, there are only 3 nylon u-shaped clips holding the headlamp assembly in.

After releasing the headlight assembly:

# Disconnect the electrical connector from the bulb. Now the headlamp is free to work with.

# Remove the bulb from the lamp assembly by pulling straight back.

Do not twist, as there are alignment slots built into the lamp assembly socket. It may take some effort to remove the lamp because it has a rubber o-ring type seal - try a bit of wiggling side-to-side while pulling

# Insert new bulb into headlight assembly - don't touch the glass - use gloves, paper towel, or similar

Make sure that the flat surface of the bulb socket is facing upward, and is firmly seated

# Re-attach retainer ring by rotating clockwise

# Reconnect the electrical harness

# Re-install headlamp assembly

* Do not touch the glass of the new halogen bulb - the oils in the skin will shorten the life-span of the new bulb, or possibly cause the bulb to explode when first turned on

If the bulb is accidentally touched, it should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol before being used

* I would also suggest referring to the Owners Manual (if it's still around ;)) - it'll have illustrated instructions on bulb replacement procedures.

See "Related Questions" and "Related Links" below for more unplug the plug going to the bulb, turn the black plastic ring the is going around the bulb and the bulb should come right out.