I finally got the 10mm socket for my wrench and was able to remove both headlights. I thought I was in the clear to change the bulbs, but there seem to be two long rods sticking out the back of the each cover that hold it to the back of the headlight assembly. I attempted to remove the rods, and the plastic ends that are shaped like nuts snapped... What do I do?

5/21: Got it open but I can't get the white residue off (from the exploded bulb). I tried water and soap, alcohol, and white vinegar but still nothing. Any ideas?

 

The things you broke were to aim your headlights. I don't have any advice for ya to getting those back on.





You didn't have to remove them to change your headlights. In fact, you didn't have to pull the headlights to remove the bulbs.

 

Wow thanks for that, you just helped me figure it out.

I need to get inside of the compartment to clean it out; there is debris in there from an older bulb that exploded (even a dried liquid like substance on the base) and it is making one of the headlights look foggier than the other.

 

Found the solution here: http://forums.maxima.org/1745286-post2.html

 

Got it open but I can't get the white residue off. I tried water and soap, alcohol, and white vinegar but still nothing. Any ideas?

 

You may have to buff that off. When the old bulb exploded, the stuff that flew out was probably very hot and may have melted the surface of the lens, causing the discoloration.

 

might as well go to a junkyard and look for a new one.

 

Yeah, you could try wetsanding, but if it did melt the surface of your lens. You might as well get used ones....buff those clear. Or, buy R34's for $110.

 

Baking soda seems to have gotten a bit of it out. At this point, it is no longer an eyesore.

I have been eyeballing R34's for a while though. :O