How do I change the headlights in a 2001 Grand Am?

Question

I have read the owner's manual and it says to "lift the clips." Where are the clips? I've taken off the protective plastic piece to keep idiots out of the engine but can't figure out how to remove the headlight assembly. The pictue in the manual doesn't look like the inside of my car... Help?

Answer 1

The clips you are looking for are just behind the headlamp assembly and will be remove by pulling UP, straight UP. They should be just infront of the metal crossmember that runs from fender to fender.
also this:

-Open the hood.
-Remove the front air deflector. (plastic cover over headlamp)
-Apply light pressure to the headlamp lens to hold the headlamp in place while disconnecting the retainers. (press against)
-Lift up the headlamp retainers to release. IMPORTANT: Note the location and position of the headlamp adjuster retainers and the locator tab.
-Remove the headlamp, pulling straight forward from car
-Rotate the headlamp bulb/socket(s) counterclockwise to release. Remove the headlamp bulb(s).

Installation just go back up the list.

Happy motoring

Answer 2

One thing that someone forgot to mention, Your headlight is just a bulb, not a whole assembly like the older cars. The clips retain the bulb in a headlight socket and are located behind each headlight assembly under the hood. One more important thing you need to know. never, and i mean never touch any part of the glass bulb with your fingers. The oil from your skin will create a hot spot on the bulb and it will burn your new bulb out in a short period of time. If you go to an Auto Zone, you may find the bulb for about $9 and the counterperson can probably install it for free, or at least show you where it is located and how to replace it from there.
good luck..........

Answer 3

I agree with the first two answers but, just an addition buy the retainers that secure bulbs to headlamp assembly, they will probably break during removal.