How To Replace The Headlamps In A Nissan Xterra

[@mattwright7689]

Our daughters car was stolen and we had to buy a 2009 Xterra in a pinch for her transportation. After watching this video my wife and I replaced the head light assembly's and painted the grill and bumper while it was off. This video is the only reason we tried this and it turned out great. Huge thanks for putting this out.

[@Rythecarguy]

That's awesome! I'm sorry to hear about the stolen car but I'm glad you found something else. The Xterra is a great SUV if you maintain itz

[@diegopereira1383]

Thanks to your videos I am learning how to fix a lot of things in my Xterra 2006. 280,000 miles and strong

[@angier8609]

Finally!!! A guy who cuts to the chase. I loathe nothing more than having to zoom through the same bolt/screw... what have you 6 + x's. Also, a nice, soothing voice to listen to. Thanks so much! BTW love the tree tat. I have a similar one on my right forearm.😄

[@bradlivsey6569]

Very depictive of step by step what's needed for a forthright R & R disassembly and reassembly. Good on-ya, RY!

[@kevinnewsome4481]

Easy Peasy. Thank you for the info. My 2014 Xterra has new headlights now. Update: After seeing the light pattern from these headlights, I realized that the reflector on the Left assembly was defective. I returned them and bought some TYC brand CAPA certified assemblies for an extra $100 for the pair from the online company with rock in the name. These are very high quality for an extra $50 each.

[@Rythecarguy]

You're welcome!

[@mr_e_mc2]

once again I am doin the exact same thing to my X, and your content helps me out so much and save me tones of time reading the manual. YOU ROCK RY!!!!!

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad to help dude! Thanks for continuing to come back and check out the videos. 🤘🏻

[@bigpimpin8058]

Thank you for being the only vid close to what I was looking for! I’m currently trying to replace the headlights on my 2004 Nissan Xterra and I couldn’t find anything else on YT as close as the vid you’ve provided on how to do it smh

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad to help in anyway that I can!

[@vj5597]

Just did my headlights. Great video! Voice was clear. Instructions were good.

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks for watching! About 200 more where that came from. 😀

[@geller373]

Good video, thanks for getting right to the point. Unlike most other "how to" videos that go off topic and take forever to get the information needed.

[@trailbuilderXC]

Thanks Ry. I have an 06 OffRoad edition and your videos have been my go-to for taking the guesswork, or frustrating trial-error, out of my up-keep and maintanence of an aging Xterra.

[@Rythecarguy]

You’re welcome man, Thanks for watching!

[@jontygers1]

Thank you for all of your videos on the X! I bought a 2005 Xterra brand new off the lot and it has been all a fun truck running all over the US for years. I started doing most of the maintenance again since I found mechs and dealers in the SF area were not performing the work I was paying them for. Your videos have helped a lot!

[@bjstuhl]

Love the clarity of your video. Helped me understand how easy it is to replace the old lights.

[@TheCreagar]

Wow, the difference that makes is astounding. Great videos, please keep it up !

[@sifusnakeeyes5209]

Just bought my first standard xterra. Excited to pimp it out my own way but thank you for the tips!!!

[@tonypuga2502]

Thanks, I just replaced my headlights following your steps,

[@genericdude6551]

I'm glad my Mustang headlamps are a LOT easier to remove and replace. Looks like I'll have to do all this stuff in this video to replace the fog lamps and the side markers. Not looking forward to doing that. Doing the Big 4 electrical upgrade will be a challenge also considering where Nissan mounted the alternator.

[@MattTheriot]

Excellent video! Very comprehensive and thorough. I'm about to do this to my 2012 Xterra that I bought used, I figured it was easier than trying to buff out the existing ones, which hasn't worked out well for me in the past on my Mazda Tribute.

[@Rythecarguy]

I have a video on refinishing them as well and they did turn out great. I just didn’t protect them afterwards so they just got yellow again.

[@stevenebel6502]

Thanks again brother,used your video for my speaker upgrade also!

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad I could help!

[@the_earl]

Quick comment on your initial comment for "stupid design" on the bolt placement, I used to have a 95 Tacoma, and the headlight bolts could be easily accessed without removing the bumper, and I replaced the headlights with some new Fancy HID ones that were about $400 at the time as HID's were all the rage back then, and about a week after installing them someone broke out my window popped my hood and stole them, along with my radio, CD's, amp, and tires :( while it was sitting in the overflow parking lot across the street from my high school where there were no security cameras. They installed some cameras shortly after that as there were several vehicle break-in's that day and a bunch of stuff was taken from like 10 - 15 cars, but they did some serious damage to my ride and I was really bummed out. So My guess is that the bolt placement is a built in security measure in the design to make it more difficult for thevin' Also a really funny side note, they also stole a Mc D's breakfast sandwich I bought on the way to school that day I was planning on eating for lunch, that I left it in the ride to keep it cold as it was about -3 degrees that day, so double bummed because I got all my stuff stolen and I did not even get to eat and I was soo o dang hungry while spending the rest of the day filling out a police report with the SRO itemizing all the things that got jacked, and yes the report included the sandwich LOL.

[@sapphire163]

If you are watching this, you should also watch Ry's fog light video. While you have the bumper cover off, you might want to add fog lights if the vehicle doesn't have them

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks!

[@seanm3883]

Great overview and explanation. Always learn something in your videos

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks Sean. I appreciate you watching. :D

[@gc_914]

Dude do you have any recommendations on led headlights for an xterra 2005? Thanks great videos

[@robmoses2945]

Excellent video!! Took me maybe two hours…. but I did it. Thanks!!

[@Rythecarguy]

Heck yes! Glad you were able to knock it out

[@davidvillafranca2011]

Thank you for your videos. I just changed mine.

[@yqma1964]

beautiful... thank you so much for all the videos, saved me lots of money!

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad to help!

[@soulgivesoul07]

I’m starting to do mods to my X soon, these vids have been very helpful. Thanks you! Anyone ever tell you that you sound like Daniel tosh?

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad I could help! And no, no one has told me that lol.

[@elonsus9747]

I took the grille off and unscrewed the wheel wells and I was able to get to the hidden bolt. I left both bolts out and only put on the 3 bolts in front. So anytime I need to change the headlights it should be easier. I did not take off the bumper. It was a little harder to take them out.

[@juanotzoy6502]

Thank you Ry nice video. Now I have the idea. 👍

[@povertyspec9651]

OEM headlights are actually reasonably priced now. Just replaced mine.

[@randyhammer7777]

Very helpful. Great detail. Thanks!

[@Rythecarguy]

🤘🏻🤘🏻you're welcome

[@22kpar1xcyberdyne9]

Nice video editing. Transitions smoothly and video is informative, not full of fluff, excessive jargon, or fukn ads. 💯👍

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks!! 💪🏻💪🏻

[@Whumann]

Very helpful. Thank you!

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad you like it!

[@georgewiker3999]

Excellent Video. Thanks!

[@Rythecarguy]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@kellenmartin6593]

Great work, I really appreciate the clarity of your videos. After having those on your X for nearly 2 years, how are they holding up? Would you still recommend them?

[@sh00ca]

Hey, Ry! Did you put any clear coat on these, or do you recommend doing so to keep them nice?

[@Rythecarguy]

Left them bare. But I recommend doing a clear coat

[@jessegames6714]

Thank you for your videos. 👍

[@Rythecarguy]

No problem man!

[@pjkaup]

The link to the headlamps isn’t working anymore. Could you share a new link or description of the brand you purchased? Looks awesome! Definitely on my list. Thank you!

[@tkooj2]

How do you like the headlights now that you've had them for awhile? The darker housing unit looks awesome.

[@Rythecarguy]

They still look pretty darn good! The outside layer is peeling a little bit but they're not clouding.

[@tkooj2]

@@Rythecarguy so worth it in the end?

[@Rythecarguy]

I would say yes, for sure.

[@hilariomendez9111]

Good video. Keep up with the good work

[@brjones27]

Curious if it'd be a good idea to put a protective coating of something on the new ones. So they last a bit longer.

[@sonnybeltran7096]

Would you recommend replacing the light bulbs?

[@povertyspec9651]

Replacement OEM headlights come with new bulbs pre-installed.

[@cammurfitt229]

I have a bull bar on mine do I take that off and then bumper or can I take it off as one ?

[@Rythecarguy]

Bull bar has to come off first. You can also take out your wheel well covers and go in from the side of you want.

[@BBCtheformerBT]

Excellent guide, Ry! Most of my screws and clips are rusty and/or brittle; do you know of a parts list or other resources for the right sizes to use as replacements? Thanks!

[@Rythecarguy]

I always just bring a few to the auto parts shop and buy them in bulk right there. They are usually on a spinning rack with bolts, nuts etc. its way more expensive online but you know you are getting something that works.

[@mastershocks6916]

Please do the cruise control for ur car and show us how to add it people will love it

[@Rythecarguy]

Maybe. :D

[@DDDYLN]

Nissan really made this a PIA. Thanks fornthe video. Will this be the same for a 2011 Pro-4X?

[@Rythecarguy]

Yes sir.

[@CarsRMe]

those are the 2010 up style headlights... funny thing I replace my 2012 xterra headlights with the 2005-2009 style lights

[@janb8472]

Excelente explicación gracias 👍💯

[@Rythecarguy]

De nada, thanks for watching!

[@icesolad6664]

Hey Ry recently picked up a 2008 Xterra and your videos have been super helpful. I'm already planning on adding/fixing some elements using your vids. Thanks a bunch man. Is there any chance you could do one on programming a new transponder key? I don't know much about the process or if the procedure gaps multiple Nissan models/years.

[@Vitamindevo]

Thank you so much dude! Watching this video gave me the confidence to buy and install myself those new headlights and I got some DiodeDynamics SS3 Yellow Fog lights. Wondering tho, the new headlights dont feel that bright. Any suggestions on super bright bulbs?

[@fishybusinessco.8398]

Can you do a video on a 2010 Xterra front cigarette lighter is dead and I don’t know how to fix it

[@carriemomeni3761]

Approximately how long did it take you to complete this project? I have the lights ready to install but want to know if this is a half day mess or an hour long one before I start. Thank you! Love my 04

[@matthewalston1226]

Lol...04 is a totally different Truck, you're on the wrong video.

[@mattandrews684]

How have these after market headlamps holding up?

[@Rythecarguy]

They have been pretty good! They have just a little fading on the top edge but keep in mind that my X NEVER sees a garage. It is an outdoor dog lol.

[@mattandrews684]

@@Rythecarguy I am going to be installing fog lights here in a couple of weeks and although my headlamps look okay, I don't want to have to remove the bumper twice.

[@dougprude]

Ry, great video. I found an extra cable behind the passenger side light. What is it? Did I miss something?

[@MaximumDIYGarage]

This one is probably for your fog lights

[@repocheta43]

Great explanation!

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks!

[@keithjackson1180]

I have an 06 Xterra S and Amazon says that the listed lights don't fit my model. There is another cheaper model that Amazon says does fit. From a quick look at them, the only real difference I see is that the ones you selected have a black bezel while the ones Amazon says will fit have chrome. I really enjoy watching your videos and have lots of plans for my Xterra.

[@CarsRMe]

they will fit... they are the updated lights from the 2010 face lift

[@Rythecarguy]

Yes, those are the exact headlamps I purchased and installed. They definitely fit. Thanks so much for watching. I glad you like the videos

[@keithjackson1180]

I ordered a pair this morning. It will probably be at least next week before I can get around to putting them in. I will post how it turns out. I also picked up and LED light set for the interior lights.

[@Rythecarguy]

Sweet! Hope it goes well.

[@cachief]

@@keithjackson1180 how did it turn out?

[@ripd97]

Ry, I've not been been able to find any videos of the power steering hoses, return or suction, being replaced on a second generation Xterra. Have you done this on your X yet?

[@stephentaylor6182]

Hey Ry, I have a 2012 Xterra X, not sure which headlights you recommend as the link to amazon is broken. Could you update your link? Thanks in advance...

[@jrw100990]

I have a pro4x with the 2 piece bumper is it pretty much the same process?

[@Rythecarguy]

Ohhh I am not totally sure. If you tried it let me know.

[@nkbc5819]

Great video!

[@Rythecarguy]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@BX0207]

Are the headlihts from 2005 to 2015 all compatible I think theres a differnce somewhere in those years... but some times you see aftermarket lights that say `for 2005-2010.. and 2011 to 2015.. but then you ll see headlight models that say; fits 2005 to 2015 Xterras

[@DimplesDon9]

Hey man, i know this video is from 2019. I have a question regarding the oem headlight. Most of the reflector housing have this small circle sometimes square inside the housing your xterra have this as well. Its at the front of the led bulb, do you know what is the name of this part and what's it's role for the headlight bulb?

[@rado925]

Hi Ry, the hand-break light on dashboard ((!)) is not working, Nissan pathfinder 2009, what should i do ?

[@cachief]

Ryan how have these headlamps held up?

[@Rythecarguy]

Honestly they have been great. Still look like new.

[@LeoMoPacCrypto]

Did yours have extra connection holes on the bottom middle of the headlight unit? Cause I do but there’s nothing to attach it to

[@Rythecarguy]

I'm sorry but I don't recall

[@USMC_BABE38]

awesome video very helpful

[@محمدرجب-غ7ل4ه]

Nice video

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks 👍🏻

[@Agent.K.]

Did you do the diff breather mod?

[@Rythecarguy]

Nope. I’ll look into it though.

[@patdrumm3770]

I looked at those before. Not sure if I like the look or not. They are definitely good looking, but on my tan xterra it may be too modern looking.

[@jasonaldrich6197]

Same process for a 2015?

[@alexneri7513]

How are you with 2003 Xterra? I have new headlamps and nt sure what I am getting into.

[@Rythecarguy]

Unfortunately I don't have any experience with those. 😕

[@patrickmoseley8756]

Ry, how would you rate the optics of the headlights you installed? I replaced the headlights (with a different brand) on my daughter's Xterra by watching your video. The ones installed now create a lot of bright arcs, dark areas, inconsistent light pattern. Almost dangerous to drive on back roads at night. Looking to replace them with a higher quality product.

[@kirkchapman6098]

What did you replace them with, out of curiosity?

[@jkwic4646]

Nice! Do you have an O2 sensor changing video? Thanks

[@Rythecarguy]

No sir, not yet.

[@jkwic4646]

Cool. Thanks for the reply. Love the vids. Keep me coming. My son and I are learning a lot. Love from Hawaii 🤙

[@CaBdosdos]

So they look nice but what about the light they give? Is it brighter than oem does it spread too much? I'm thinking of buying a retro fit projector set you should totally do a how to for it 😁

[@Rythecarguy]

They project well! They seem brighter than before. Probably because they are just much more clear. I did do an HID install video on the Xterra. Here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmKZeqWKqqh-qqM

[@USMC_BABE38]

Will those headlights work for the 2007 Nissan xterra?

[@Rythecarguy]

Yea they should

[@williamwilkin1892]

How well are they holding up?

[@Rythecarguy]

Ehhhhh....ok. I have a little bit of the coating peeling off on one of them. Overall still looking decent. Keep in mind my Xterra sit in the Florida sun all day every day. No garage time until recently.

[@williamwilkin1892]

@@Rythecarguy have you tried 303 products?

[@Rythecarguy]

What’s that!?!

[@williamwilkin1892]

@@Rythecarguy uv protection but yours are peeling so a little late I suppose! Im going to end up wrapping mine with cleat vinyl. I just installed new headlights yesterday.

[@firstnamelastname3681]

Awesome video, thanks! I have a question not related to the headlamps... Have you had the famous SMOD problem on your xterra yet?

[@Rythecarguy]

No sir. I have a manual transmission. They don’t have that problem.

[@JamesWilliams-jz7ft]

Whats that??

[@jimeneze1987]

@@JamesWilliams-jz7ft Strawberry Milk Shake of Death .(SMOD) refers to the resulting color that happens when coolant and transmission fluid (ATF) mix inside the radiator and, subsequently, the transmission. SMOD typically happens when the transmission cooler (full of ATF,) which in some cars is located inside the radiator, fails, and leaks. When ATF and coolant mix the color resembles that of a strawberry milkshake, hence the name SMOD, and it can cause transmission failure and engine problems. SMOD notorously plagues Nissan’s from 2005-2010, as well as other brands and models. Any vehicle that has a transmission cooler located inside the radiator can potentially fall victim to SMOD. One last note, you should not drive if you suspect you have strawberry milkshake of death happening in your car or truck.

[@JamesWilliams-jz7ft]

@@jimeneze1987 oh ok disnt know what they called that but yeah my 07 x is in the shop with that problem getting a new tranny thanks for the info

[@Afig24]

what happened to your fog lights? Did you film this before you added them in?

[@Rythecarguy]

No, Since I was taking the bumper off I took the opportunity to take them out. One of the lenses broke and I didn’t want so spend the money to replace it, so I just removed them for now.

[@sajjathbaig]

Awesome

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks!

[@josemireles2894]

What model and year is this?

[@Rythecarguy]

2005 Xterra

[@michaelortega1928]

Hi, I have a 2014 xterra pro 4x and i wanted to know how to replace the off road lamps lens. I have looked everywhere for the answer but cannot find the answer at all. Would you be able to help please or anyone on this?.

[@Rythecarguy]

Sorry, I dont have the fancy version of the X. I have the most basic stripped down model lol.

[@matthewalston1226]

Why you doing all that disassembly for headlights? Nissan didn't even do that when replacing headlights with OEM (07-S 4x4)

[@Rythecarguy]

I would be curious to know how they unscrewed a bolt from behind the bumper without removing it.

[@Dwendele]

Is there anybody who makes nice aftermarket headlights for an 01 Xterra

[@Tony-uo4ml]

Why not just polish those?

[@Rythecarguy]

Already did once. Wanted to try something new.

[@elonsus9747]

Nissan and stupid designs go hand in hand. 😉 good video.

[@geoffgrooms7849]

Thanks. Hyundai takes two minutes but of course Nissan makes me take the bumper off. Not surprised.

[@Rythecarguy]

I get that. Some things they do well, others not.

[@Luca_Natoli]

Wait wait wait, I thought you removed that roof rack!

[@Rythecarguy]

Just to make a video on it.

[@DonnieDeLo4577]

Me with 2 body clips left on my grill 👀

[@scottharrisohn6972]

good job, but what a pain in the a..