Lighting - Headlamp Low Beam Inoperative

Classification:
EL03-008A

Reference:
NTB03-089A

Date:
October 2, 2003

2002-2003 ALTIMA; HALOGEN HEADLIGHT LOW BEAM BULB INOPERATIVE

This amended version (NTB03-089a) updates the Parts Information Section. Please discard all previously released paper copies of NTB03-089.

APPLIED VEHICLES:
2002-2003 Altima (L31) with halogen headlights

APPLIED VIN:
Vehicles built before 1N4AL11D(*)3C 246000

APPLIED DATE:
Vehicles built before March 19, 2003

IF YOU CONFIRM:

A low beam bulb is "inoperative" (burned out) in a halogen headlight assembly.

ACTIONS:





Inspect the headlight Low beam reflector.

As needed:

^ Install Halogen Terminal Plate Kit and a new low beam bulb.

OR

^ Replace headlight assembly.





PARTS INFORMATION

IMPORTANT:
The purpose of "ACTIONS" (above) is to give you a quick idea of the work you will be performing. You MUST closely follow the entire Service Procedure as it contains information that is essential to successfully completing this repair.





CLAIMS INFORMATION

SERVICE PROCEDURE

NOTE:
You'll do all inspection and repair procedures without removing the headlight assembly, unless the assembly is to be replaced.

1. Make sure the headlight switch is turned OFF.

2. Write down the radio station presets for later reprogramming.

3. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

4. Inspect the low beam reflector:





^ You can inspect the reflector surface through the headlight lens (see Figure 2).

^ If there is any "discoloration or "hazing of the reflector, replace the headlight assembly. *

* If the headlight assembly is replaced, the repair is complete.

^ If there is no "discoloration" or "hazing", go to step 5.

5. Open the back cover on the headlight assembly.





^ Turn the cover about 45 degrees counterclockwise (see Figure 3).





6. Disconnect the Red (+), and the Black (-) terminals (see Figure 4).

7. Unhook the low beam bulb retaining spring (see Figure 4).

8. Remove the low beam bulb and discard it.





9. Loosen the retaining spring screw (see Figure 5) enough to remove the retaining spring-about one turn.

CAUTION:
Do not remove the retaining spring screw. Loosen it just enough to remove and install the spring.

10. Remove and discard the old retaining spring.

11. Install the new retaining spring from the service kit (see Parts Information).





^ Make sure the new spring is positioned properly under the retaining spring screw and then tighten the screw (see Figure 6).

CAUTION:
Do not over tighten the screw, the plastic threads may be damaged.

12. Replace the low beam headlight bulb:





^ Install replacement low beam bulb (see Parts Information). Make sure bulb is seated properly (see Figure 7).

CAUTION:
Do Not touch the glass surface of the halogen bulb. Touching the bulb's glass surface may shorten its life.

13. Install the "ground plate" over the low beam bulb (see Figure 7).

^ It's a new part from the service kit (see Parts Information).

^ Make sure it is positioned correctly.

14. Secure the bulb and "ground plate" in place with the bulb retaining spring.

15. Bend the original ground terminal as shown in Figure 8, so it cannot be used.





16. Attach the Black (-) terminal to the new location on the "ground plate" (see Figure 8).

17. Attach the Red (+) terminal to its original location (see Figure 8).





18. Reinstall the back cover on the headlight assembly (see Figure 9).

19. Connect the negative battery cable and reprogram the radio station presets.





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