6 Easy Steps To Change Headlights For Acura RDX 2019

Featured Image: [Image of Acura RDX 2019 headlights being changed]

Replacing the headlights on your Acura RDX 2019 is a straightforward task that can be completed with basic tools and minimal mechanical knowledge. However, it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure proper installation and functionality. By carefully following this guide, you can save yourself the expense and hassle of hiring a mechanic.

Before you begin, gather the necessary materials: a new set of headlights, a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a pair of gloves. It’s also helpful to have a flashlight handy in case you encounter any dark areas during the process. Additionally, make sure to park your Acura on a level surface and engage the parking brake for safety.

Once you have everything ready, you can start by opening the hood and locating the headlights. The headlights are typically held in place by several bolts or screws. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove these fasteners and carefully lift out the old headlight assembly. Be careful not to damage any of the wires or connectors attached to the headlight. Next, disconnect the electrical connectors and install the new headlight assembly. Finally, secure the new headlight with the bolts or screws you removed earlier and close the hood. Double-check all connections and ensure that the headlights are functioning properly before you drive your Acura.

Safety Precautions

Before you embark on the task of changing your Acura RDX 2019 headlights, it is imperative to prioritize your safety. Follow these essential safety precautions to ensure a smooth and hazard-free experience.

1. Park Safely

Choose a well-lit and stable parking area. Engage the parking brake to prevent your Acura from rolling during the process.

2. Disconnect the Battery

For optimal safety, disconnect the negative terminal of your vehicle’s battery. This crucial step will prevent any electrical shocks or accidents while you work on the headlights.

Table: Disconnect the Battery Safe Practices

Step	Procedure
1	Locate the battery in your engine compartment.
2	Identify the negative terminal, typically marked with a black or negative (-) symbol.
3	Using a wrench or socket, loosen the nut or bolt securing the negative terminal.
4	Carefully lift the negative terminal away from the battery post.

Opening the Hood

To access the Acura RDX 2019 headlights, you need to open the hood. Follow these steps:

Locate the hood release lever: It’s usually found under the steering wheel or on the driver’s side footwell.
Pull the lever: This will release the hood latch.
Lift the hood: Use the metal support rod to prop the hood open securely.

Additional Tips:

Safety first: Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Inspect the hood: Check for any obstructions or loose parts before lifting.
Use caution: The metal support rod can be spring-loaded and may snap back if not handled properly.
Avoid touching the hood latch: It can be sensitive and may trigger the hood to close unexpectedly.
Close the hood carefully: Lower the hood gradually and secure it by pressing down firmly on the latch until it clicks.

Disconnecting the Electrical Connectors

Once the headlight assembly is loose, you can disconnect the electrical connectors.

There are two electrical connectors for each headlight assembly: one for the low beam and one for the high beam.

To disconnect the connectors, simply squeeze the tabs on the sides of the connectors and pull them apart.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Disconnecting the Electrical Connectors:

Step	Instructions
1	Locate the electrical connectors for the headlight assembly.
2	Squeeze the tabs on the sides of the connectors to release them.
3	Pull the connectors apart to disconnect them from the headlight assembly.

Once the electrical connectors are disconnected, you can remove the headlight assembly from the vehicle.

Replacing the Headlight Bulb

Tools Required:

New headlight bulb
Phillips screwdriver
T25 Torx screwdriver

Steps:

Remove the front wheel well liner: Turn the steering wheel fully to the left. Remove the 10mm screw at the bottom of the wheel well liner, then pull the liner out and tuck it behind the bumper.
Detach the headlight assembly: Loosen the two Phillips screws at the top of the headlight assembly and the T25 Torx screw at the bottom. Gently pull the assembly forward until it comes out.
Disconnect the electrical connector: Press the release lever on the electrical connector and pull it off the headlight bulb.
Remove the old bulb: Turn the bulb counterclockwise and remove it from the housing.
Install the new bulb: Insert the new bulb into the housing and turn it clockwise to secure it.
Reconnect the electrical connector: Push the electrical connector onto the new bulb until it clicks into place.
Reinstall the headlight assembly: Slide the headlight assembly back into its position and tighten the screws.
Reattach the wheel well liner: Pull the wheel well liner out from behind the bumper and screw it back in place.
Turn the steering wheel back to the center position: Check that the headlight is working properly.

Reinstalling the Headlight Assembly

Now that the new headlight is in place, it’s time to reassemble the headlight housing. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and proper fit:

Align the tabs on the headlight housing with the slots on the frame. Gently push the housing into place until it snaps into position.
Tighten the mounting bolts using a socket wrench. Make sure not to overtighten the bolts, as this can damage the housing.
Secure the headlight connector by pushing it firmly into the socket on the new headlight. It should lock into place with a satisfying “click.”
Connect the turn signal and daytime running light connectors to the corresponding sockets on the headlight assembly.
Secure the dust cover by pushing it into place over the back of the headlight housing.
Install the plastic cover over the headlight assembly. It should fit snugly and snap into place.
Align the metal bracket on the headlight assembly with the slots on the bumper. Insert the bracket into the slots and tighten the bolts to secure it.
Verify Function

With the headlight reassembled, test its functions to ensure they are working properly. Turn on the headlights, indicators, and daytime running lights to verify their functionality. If any issues arise, double-check the connections and ensure all components are securely fastened.

Connecting the Electrical Connectors

9. Unclip the electrical connectors from the old headlights. To do this, locate the connectors on the back of the headlights and gently squeeze the plastic tabs on the sides of the connectors. Once the tabs are released, pull the connectors straight back to detach them from the headlights.

9a. Identify the different types of electrical connectors. There are two main types of electrical connectors used in car headlights: Halogen and Xenon. Halogen connectors are typically round and have two prongs, while Xenon connectors are rectangular and have four prongs.

9b. Connect the electrical connectors to the new headlights. To do this, insert the prongs of the connectors into the corresponding slots on the back of the new headlights. Once the connectors are fully inserted, squeeze the plastic tabs on the sides of the connectors to lock them in place.

9c. Check that the electrical connectors are securely connected. After you have connected the electrical connectors, tug on them gently to make sure that they are properly locked in place. If any of the connectors are loose, they may come disconnected while you are driving, which could cause the headlights to malfunction.

Electrical Connector Type	Number of Prongs	Shape
Halogen	2	Round
Xenon	4	Rectangular

Closing the Hood

1. Locate the hood latch release lever inside the vehicle, typically on the driver’s side.

2. Pull the lever to release the hood latch.

3. Go to the front of the vehicle and lift the hood slightly.

4. Locate the hood prop rod and insert it into the designated hole to hold the hood open.

5. Inspect the headlight assemblies for any loose connections or damage.

6. Check that the new headlights are securely fastened in place.

7. Double-check that the electrical connectors are properly connected.

8. Close the hood by lowering it slowly and evenly.

9. Ensure that the hood is properly latched by pressing down firmly on the center of the hood.

10. Verify the Headlight Function:

Start the vehicle and turn on the headlights to test their functionality.
Check the brightness and alignment of the headlights.
Use the vehicle’s headlight adjustment screws to fine-tune the alignment if necessary.

How to Change Headlights for Acura RDX 2019

Replacing the headlights on a 2019 Acura RDX is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. Here are the steps involved:

Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Open the hood and locate the electrical connectors for the headlight assembly you want to replace.
Disconnect the electrical connectors by pressing the release tabs and pulling them straight out.
Locate the retaining clips that hold the headlight assembly in place and use a flathead screwdriver to remove them.
Slide the old headlight assembly straight out of the vehicle.
Insert the new headlight assembly into the vehicle and secure it with the retaining clips.
Reattach the electrical connectors by pushing them firmly into place until they click.
Close the hood and test the new headlight.