Firebird 1999-2002: How to Replace Headlights and Fog Lights

Are your headlights and fog lights damaged, as yellow as the sun, or otherwise looking shabby? Here's how to replace them the easy way.

By Brett Foote - March 2, 2016

This article applies to the Pontiac Firebird (1999-2002).

Headlights and fog lights go through a lot of abuse over the years, as they face endless road grime and nasty conditions. Over time, they simply get dirty and oftentimes damaged, requiring replacement. Even though the Firebird has flip up headlights, replacing them isn't as complicated as you might think. Doing this job yourself can save you a pretty hefty bundle of money over letting a dealership do it for you, and it will really improve the looks of your ride. Here's how to get it done without breaking your back, or your bankroll.

Firebird 1999-2002: How to Replace Headlights and Fog Lights

Materials Needed

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • 10mm socket and ratchet or wrench

Step 1 – Remove the headlights

Pop the hood and make sure the headlights are in the "up" position. Remove the two Phillips screws from the side of each headlight (facing in toward the car). On the other side of each headlight (facing outward, away from the car) there are two other screws that must be removed as well. Use both hands to pull off the trim piece that surrounds each headlight. Remove the two Phillips screws on top of each headlight and the two on the bottom. Remove the trim piece around the headlights. Pull the headlights out and disconnect the three prong connector from the back of each one.

  • camaro firebird 4th gen f-body foglight headlight replacement removal DIY how to housing remove
    Figure 1. Remove the two screws from each side of each headlight.
  • camaro firebird 4th gen f-body foglight headlight replacement removal DIY how to housing remove
    Figure 2. Pull the trim piece off.
  • camaro firebird 4th gen f-body foglight headlight replacement removal DIY how to housing remove
    Figure 3. Remove the four screws from the headlight bezel.
  • camaro firebird 4th gen f-body foglight headlight replacement removal DIY how to housing remove
    Figure 4. Disconnect the electrical connector from the rear of the headlight.

Step 2 – Install new headlights

Plug the three prong connector into the back of each new headlight. Place the trim ring around the headlights and replace the four Phillips screws. Push the headlight trim piece back into place and reinstall the four screws on the sides of each headlight.

Featured Video: How to Change Firebird Headlights

Step 3 – Replace fog lights

Crawl underneath the car and locate the flap door access panels that are just in front of each tire. Remove the two 10mm bolts that hold each one in place and pull the panel out. Reach up inside and remove the three screws holding each fog light in place, then twist the bulb connector counterclockwise to remove. Install the new fog lights by inserting the bulb connector and turning it clockwise, replacing the three screws. Replace each access panel and reinstall the two bolts in each.

    • camaro firebird 4th gen f-body foglight headlight replacement removal DIY how to housing remove
      Figure 5. Remove the two screws from each access panel to access the fog lights.
    • camaro firebird 4th gen f-body foglight headlight replacement removal DIY how to housing remove
      Figure 6. Remove the three screws to remove the fog light.

Featured Video: How to Change Foglight on Firebird

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