Change out headlamp bulb - MKS vs SHO???

D

DRII

New member
so my right side headlight is going in and out on the MKS.

called around a few places and the quotes for the MKS are like 6x higher than for the SHO!

like $350 vs $45???  just talking labor, not parts.

one guy said the MKS requires removal of the front bumper, another said it because the ballast for the Xenons requires much more time and its not the bumper???

I don't get it.

has anybody had this issue?  is it possible to DIY?

I searched youtube and could find nothing for the MKS, there was a couple on the Taurus and the guy made it look relatively simple.

Since they are the same platform, I don't understand why the labor cost are so different.
 
I know the MKS has the headlights that move automatically, when you turn... I don't think the SHO has that.  Honestly, I have no idea how to change the bulb on my MKS.  I've spent a decent amount of time under the hood, and I legit don't know how to access that.  If you do find out, come back here and do a write up!
 
Officially, all years require bumper cover and headlamp assembly removal.  Passenger side may be especially true if there are A/C lines running on that side.  If not, you MAY be able to squeeze the bulb in and out of there.

2013+
NOTE: The headlamp bulb should not be removed from the headlamp assembly until just before a new bulb is installed. Removing the bulb for an extended period of time may affect headlamp bulb performance. Contaminants may enter the headlamp assembly where they can settle on the lens and reflector. Never turn on the headlamps with the bulb removed from the headlamp assembly.

Remove the headlamp assembly. For additional information, refer to Headlamp Assembly .
Remove the headlamp bulb access cover.
Remove the headlamp bulb.
Twist the bulb counter clockwise and pull it back.
Disconnect the electrical connector.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.


2010-12
NOTE: The headlamp bulb should not be removed from the headlamp assembly until just before a new bulb is installed. Removing the bulb for an extended period of time may affect headlamp bulb performance. Contaminants may enter the headlamp assembly where they can settle on the lens and reflector. Never turn on the headlamps with the bulb removed from the headlamp assembly.

Remove the headlamp assembly. For additional information, refer to Headlamp Assembly in this section.
Remove the headlamp bulb access cover.
Remove the 2 screws and the headlamp bulb.
Disconnect the electrical connector.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
 
I get all that... But as a mechanic I'm telling you it can be replaced without removing the bumper cover. As a matter of fact I changed BOTH of my headlights on the side of the road last Saturday on my way to the track. I had some cheap aftermarkets in and one failed after a hot restart. As I was retrying (on and off) the other other side failed too! I kept spares in my car just in case as I had one fail before. It Can be done. The connector on the 13 plus is much easier however. I may post a video later to show you how. Save some $$$...
 
StinkinLinkin13 said:
I get all that... But as a mechanic I'm telling you it can be replaced without removing the bumper cover. As a matter of fact I changed BOTH of my headlights on the side of the road last Saturday on my way to the track. I had some cheap aftermarkets in and one failed after a hot restart. As I was retrying (on and off) the other other side failed too! I kept spares in my car just in case as I had one fail before. It Can be done. The connector on the 13 plus is much easier however. I may post a video later to show you how. Save some $$$...
Click to expand...

thanks man, I'd appreciate it.

Walmart auto wouldn't touch it and Pepboys was outrageous $$$.

BTW, what aftermarket bulbs did you get.

I'm looking at some RCPs 3DSs 8000K if i'm going to have to change them out anyway.  I think i'll prefer the bluish light vs the standard Xenons on our cars.
 
The RCPs look great but aren't very reliable... Thats what I had fail this weekend. I've gone through 2 sets in about 2 years... The Cougar brand seemed better but I traded my 09 in with them and don't know how long they lasted. Sorry ran out of time tonight with all the festivities... I'll post a video tomorrow afternoon. What year is your mks? If it's pre 13 it might just be best to remove the bumper cover. Still not an overwhelming job necessarily. Btw the 6k color is nice looking... Getting too blue starts loses effective light output
 
StinkinLinkin13 said:
The RCPs look great but aren't very reliable... Thats what I had fail this weekend. I've gone through 2 sets in about 2 years... The Cougar brand seemed better but I traded my 09 in with them and don't know how long they lasted. Sorry ran out of time tonight with all the festivities... I'll post a video tomorrow afternoon. What year is your mks? If it's pre 13 it might just be best to remove the bumper cover. Still not an overwhelming job necessarily. Btw the 6k color is nice looking... Getting too blue starts loses effective light output
Click to expand...
2010...
 
The driver's side headlight on my SHO was filling with condensation/water. I took the headlight assembly out, dried it out, and resealed it. I did have to take the bumper and grill off. It was frustrating, but, not too difficult.
 
My mks had torx screws holding it in as I have adaptive turn lights. I used a socket and loosened them, and then finished with a magnetic tip. You then twist and shimmy up and out. I didnt take my bumper off, but felt like a chinese contortionist in the matter. Dri ers side required taking snorkle and filter box out. Heres how mine looked...


You also have to push the lower connector off, i used a needle nose.


The two torx at the top at each side loosened up, best of luck to ya!
 
MKS Tom said:
I will just replace all of the bulbs when I finally order a GH intercooler.  lol
Click to expand...

Good idea then you can take full advantage of going through the process of removing the front bumper.  I try to do this often....depending on what it is I may not wait for other parts as that leads to delays but it's nice to be efficient with your time and tackle a few items at once.
 
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