2001-2007 Ford Escape Headlight Replacement

If you have a headlight out in your car, it...

iFixit Library 2001-2007 Ford Escape Easy 10 - 20 minutes Guide 141927

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Guide overview

Before you begin

If you have a headlight out in your car, it should be changed as soon as possible. Headlights go out after many years of use or an electrical shortage within the car. This guide pertains to a first generation Ford Escape, years 2001-2007. Upon completion of this guide you will have one or two brand new headlights for your car. Headlights are an essential item in every car that enable the operator to see at night and in dangerous weather. Always make sure to handle glass bulbs carefully to avoid injury. It is best not to touch the bulbs with your bare hands as the oils will damage the bulb and cause the bulb to fail. Before beginning, make sure to turn off the car, turn on the emergency break, and stand clear of any road hazards.

Step 1

Repair step

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Release the hood latch located under the dashboard on the driver side of the vehicle.
You will hear a pop sound once the hood is properly detached.

Step 2

Repair step

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Push in on the sides of the bulb plug and pull directly out. It may take a bit of wiggling and effort to remove the plug.

Step 3

Repair step

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Remove the rubber boot surrounding the housing. It will peel off when pulling the tabs to the side.
You may need a pry tool to remove the rubber boot. Always use an appropriate pry tool for the job.

Step 4

Repair step

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Unlatch the bulb retention clip by pushing in on the two circle pins and pushing them apart.
They're similar to springs and will push away from each other once released.

Step 5

Repair step

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Remove the bulb by pulling it directly out of the housing. Once the bar is out of the way, the bulb isn't held onto by any remaining parts.
Be careful when removing bulbs to not scratch or damage the glass portion. Shattered glass is potentially harmful.

Step 6

Repair step

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Line the new bulb along the housing and set it in place. Clip the bar back down into it's original position from step 4 to secure it in place.
Be careful when handling headlight bulbs. Do not get any fingerprints on the glass of the bulb. Fingerprints can heat up when the light is turned on and cause the bulb to fail. Always grab the bulb by the end.

Step 7

Repair step

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Reverse steps 2 and 3 to finish installing the new bulb. These steps are mirrored on the driver side of the vehicle.