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Dodge Ram 1994-2001: How to Replace Headlights and Fog Lights

A broken headlight or fog light can really make driving your favorite truck difficult. Don't let it get you down. This how-to will show you everything you need to know to replace your headlights and fog lights.

By Jared Hammond - June 25, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (1994-2001).

Keeping your headlights in working condition is paramount for safe driving at night. If the lens is cracked or faded, you should replace it immediately. Headlights and fog lights are not all that expensive. This article will show you how to replace your factory headlight and fog light assemblies.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement headlight assembly and/or fog light assembly
  • Ratchet w/ 10 mm socket and extension
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Clean cloth or gloves

Step 1 – Remove the turn signal lights

The turn signal lights are separate from the head lights and need to be removed first. There is a Phillips screw inside the gap between the turn signal light and front bumper. Remove that screw and the turn signal light will come loose. Unplug the bulb socket in the back by twisting it counter-clockwise. Then pull the turn signal assembly free from the truck.

Figure 1. Remove the screw under the turn signal light.

Pro Tip

If it's not possible to reach the Phillips screw, it may be necessary to remove the bumper.

Step 2 – Remove the headlights

Open the hood of your truck. On the side of the headlight you'll see a gasket held by three clips that need to be pried off. Next, there are three bolts you need to remove. One is towards the inside, the other is below that behind the bumper, and the last one is on the opposite side just below where the turn signal lights were. After that there is a pin in the back of the assembly that needs to be pried out before the headlights will come loose. Remove the bulb sockets, then slide the headlight assembly out from the truck.

Figure 2. One of three bolts to remove.

Warning

Be careful when handling bulbs that have just been used as they can get very hot. Be sure to avoid touching the halogen bulbs. If you must touch them, use a cloth or gloves.

Step 3 – Replace the headlights and turn signal lights

Replacement of the headlights and turn signal lights is simply the reverse of the previous steps:

  • Connect the bulbs to the headlight assembly.
  • Line up the pin in the back of the assembly with the hole in the truck and push it in.
  • Return the three bolts around the headlight assembly.
  • Reattach the gasket and pins at the top of the headlight assembly.
  • Connect the bulb for the turn signal light assembly.
  • Line up the turn signal light assembly and insert it to the truck.
  • Reattach the Phillips screw.

Step 4 – Replace the fog lights

The fog light assembly can be replaced separately from the headlights and turn signal lights. Just unplug the electrical harness and remove the two bolts at the top of the assembly, and it'll fall from the bumper. Line up the new fog light assembly with the holes on the bumper, then tighten the two bolts. Reconnect the electrical harness, and you're all done.

Figure 3. Fog light assembly.

Featured Video: How to Install/Replace Headlights Dodge Ram '98-'02

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