Table of Contents
For those looking to tackle headlight replacement on a 2011 to 2018 Volkswagen Jetta, this guide offers a straightforward approach. From removing the old unit to installing a new one, we’ll walk you through the essential steps. Before starting make sure you verify you have a sedan or a station wagon, the headlights are different.
New Jetta Sedan Headlights
Jetta Station Wagon Headlights
![Headlight Assembly For 10-14 VW Golf Jetta 4-Door Wagon [Left Side Only]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41adXpSTJCL.jpg)
Used Jetta Headlights
How to Replace the Headlight Assembly:
Tools Needed
Replacing the Headlights Assembly on both Models:
The easiest way to remove the headlight will involve taking off the bumper that might seem intimidating but it’s not that bad.
- Remove Bolts: Start by removing bolts around the headlight—two on top, one in the back, and another hidden behind the grille.
- Detach Bracket: Remove the black upper bracket and two plastic grommets on the top of the headlight.
Removing the Front Bumper
- Bolts Removal: Start with removing four T25 bolts securing the front bumper.
- Detach Lower Brackets: Remove T25 bolts from the bottom plastic brackets.
- Fender Well Bolts: Remove T25 bolts inside the fender well, including one deep down.
- Fender Bumper Removal (If Applicable): For models with fender bumpers, peel back the double-sided tape carefully.
- Additional Bolt Access: Locate and remove a downward-facing T25 bolt for bumper detachment.
- Detaching the Front Bumper and Grille
- Apply Pressure: Push forward on the bumper to release it from the back guide, then pull it straight out with assistance.
- Disconnect Fog Lights: If equipped, twist and remove fog light bulbs from both sides.
- Final Bolt for Grille: Remove the last T30 bolt holding the grille before pulling off the front bumper.
Headlight and Bumper Reinstallation
- Realign Headlight: Start by inserting the first bolt on the inner side, ensuring alignment for the bumper and grille overlay.
- Bracket and Hardware Reassembly: Place the headlight bracket over the headlight and loosely assemble all hardware for adjustment.
- Adjust and Tighten: Once aligned, tighten the headlight to the bracket, using previous washer marks as a reference for positioning.
- Headlight Adjustment: Use an Allen key for final headlight aim adjustments after reassembly.
Finalizing the Front Bumper Installation
- Clip and Align: Ensure the bumper clips back into place, especially around the center and sides.
- Reattach Fog Lights: Insert and lock the fog light bulbs into their positions on both sides.
- Secure Top Hardware: Reattach and screw down the grille and any upper bumper components.
Aiming the Headlights
- Mark Headlight Axis: Find and mark the axis on a vertical wall from 25 feet away, adjusting the height and centerline accordingly.
- Adjust Beam Focus: Use the adjusting screw to set the passenger side beam 2 inches below the line and the driver’s side 4 inches below to avoid blinding oncoming traffic.