How to Change the Passenger Headlight on a Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima was introduced in 1993. Since then, it has experienced four different redesigns. The Altima has always used halogen composite headlights capsules.To gain access to the passenger side headlight, the removal of other components is usually required. However, hiring a mechanic to perform the repair is not necessary for the determined do-it-yourself person.
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Ratchet and metric socket set
Replacement bulb
1

Open the hood. Locate the two 10 mm coolant reservoir retaining bolts on the passenger side of the vehicle and then remove them using the ratchet and socket.
2

Remove the 10 mm bracket retaining bolt using the ratchet and socket. Remove the bracket.
3

Position the coolant reservoir out of the way to gain access to backside of the headlight assembly.
4

Turn the large plastic headlight cover counterclockwise to remove it from the back of the headlight assembly. Remove the cover.
5

Disconnect the wire harness clips from the headlight blades by pulling them off.
6

Press in and then upward on the headlight retaining ring holding the headlight bulb in place. Remove the bulb.
7

Align the new composite headlight into place without touching the glass bulb. Skin oils will greatly reduce and compromise the longevity of a halogen composite headlight.
8

Refasten the retaining ring to secure the headlight into the headlight assembly. Plug the wire harness onto the blade of the headlight and test for function. Reassemble the remaining components by reversing the procedure