Front left headlight out [Archive] - Toyota Yaris Forums

Jem_hadar

07-11-2009, 07:28 PM

texkid

07-11-2009, 07:44 PM

So just saw that my left front headlight is out... arg.

What will this likely run me, you think? (DIY and dealership)

Also, I've noticed now for the last few days that when I let off the brake, I'm always hearing a noise now (not sure how to better describe the noise).

But it never never when I first depress it, just when i let off it each time.

Anyone wanna make some guesses?

I guess I'll be swinging by the dealership to inquire abt these matters at some point next week.

Jem

Don't know on the headlight issue. I think it will be cheaper if you bought bulbs and did yourself.

As far as the breaks. Is it a "squeak" or a "grind". Does it pull to any direction? Does lean forward as you apply the breaks? Does the break pedal feel spongy, loose, or hard? We'll need more info.

Jem_hadar

07-12-2009, 01:19 AM

Don't know on the headlight issue. I think it will be cheaper if you bought bulbs and did yourself.

As far as the breaks. Is it a "squeak" or a "grind". Does it pull to any direction? Does lean forward as you apply the breaks? Does the break pedal feel spongy, loose, or hard? We'll need more info.

Its def more of a "squeak"... and no pulling... just the squeak as i let off the break.

Pedal dont seem any different that usual... the squeak/noise is all that's charged as far as i can tell.

Could it be something like rust causes the noise maybe? hmm?

texkid

07-12-2009, 02:21 AM

How many miles since you checked the brakes? Since it seems that it only occurs at low speeds I would look at the rotors first and then go from there.

I had about 20,000 miles on mine when I took in to my mechanic for a "squeaking" issue. Turned out that the front rotors were glazed to a mirror finish. Got them turned and hadn't heard anything since then. In fact, it seemed to grip better. According to the mechanic, the pads themselves still look factory new.

Bob Dog

07-12-2009, 02:43 AM

warranty on the lights = free maybe

devinlamothe

07-12-2009, 09:11 AM

The break squeel has been happening to me for the past 30,000km. I have no idea what it's from and Toyota can't figure it out either. They attributed it to me living in a cold weather area (BS).

If you end up figuring it out let me know.

Oh and to change the bulb ... you basically have to just undo some clips for the bumper, unscrew the 3 screws for the headlight and remove the housing ... then just unclip the bulb and replace. I know it seems like a pain, but I've done it when both of my lights went out and replaced with some GE Nighthawks (what a difference from OEM).

Jem_hadar

07-12-2009, 06:02 PM

As far as the breaks. Is it a "squeak" or a "grind". Does it pull to any direction? Does lean forward as you apply the breaks? Does the break pedal feel spongy, loose, or hard? We'll need more info.

Well here's an update, and an interesting one, I think -- I have no idea what it means though.

So I just discovered while I was out that the squeaking noise does NOT happen if I have parking brake engaged! Huh...

I tried this a couple times to make sure I wasn't going crazy (lol)

So yea, if I have the parking brake is pulled up, there is no squeaking noise when i push on and off my breaks. Wierd...

Does this give anyone any insight maybe?

supmet

07-12-2009, 06:32 PM

Well here's an update, and an interesting one, I think -- I have no idea what it means though.

So I just discovered while I was out that the squeaking noise does NOT happen if I have parking brake engaged! Huh...

I tried this a couple times to make sure I wasn't going crazy (lol)

So yea, if I have the parking brake is pulled up, there is no squeaking noise when i push on and off my breaks. Wierd...

Does this give anyone any insight maybe?

Your rear shoes are shot, and now, probably the drums too.

Jem_hadar

07-12-2009, 07:52 PM

Your rear shoes are shot, and now, probably the drums too.

Sorry could you (or someone else) please explain the meaning of that to me in more layman terms? (sounds quite bad though)

And what's the significance? Get repaired ASAP bc my yaris may not stop the next time I need it too at a light or stop sign?

Yaris Hilton

07-12-2009, 10:03 PM

It means you need to go get your back brakes fixed, ASAP.

Jem_hadar

07-13-2009, 01:03 AM

It means you need to go get your back brakes fixed, ASAP.

FUCK!

That sounds expensive too... dammit! (Warranty just ended in may)

Lafiro

07-13-2009, 01:10 AM

I dont think brakes are EVER included in ANY kind of warranty ;)
And they dont have to be expensive if you buy the parts from the vendors on the site, and install them yourself.

texkid

07-13-2009, 01:31 AM

I dont think brakes are EVER included in ANY kind of warranty ;)
And they dont have to be expensive if you buy the parts from the vendors on the site, and install them yourself.

I agree.

Brakes are considered to be normal wear-and-tear items and so they are not covered under warranty unless there is some severe damage/malfunction due to manufacturing. Which mostly likely is not.

As Lafiro said, get them from a vendor and install them yourself. There should be a DIY on this. Also, TRDSparks.com (http://trdsparks.com/) is a vendor and Toyota dealer and so they have the OEM parts for much lower price than if you went to your local dealership.

Somebody needs to confirm this, but I think the rear brake shoes part number is 04495-52100 and the actual drum is 42431-52070. You can also call TRDSparks themselves and they can confirm the part numbers and probably order them for you.

The Marshall

07-13-2009, 01:37 AM

I don't mean to hijack here but when you replace the burnt bulb, make sure you replace the other one too. Otherwise one will almost certainly be brighter than the other and looks foolish :)

Jem_hadar

07-13-2009, 10:14 AM

Oh and to change the bulb ... you basically have to just undo some clips for the bumper, unscrew the 3 screws for the headlight and remove the housing ... then just unclip the bulb and replace. I know it seems like a pain, but I've done it when both of my lights went out and replaced with some GE Nighthawks (what a difference from OEM).

I may or may not try to just replace them myself (im really not a DIY guy *at all*)

But either way, think I may go the route of buying some better headlight bulbs.

So obviously you'd recommend the GE Nighthawks.

Anyone else have bulbs they'd recommend instead of replacing with new OEM ones?

At the Nighhawks HID?

Jem_hadar

07-13-2009, 10:15 AM

I don't mean to hijack here but when you replace the burnt bulb, make sure you replace the other one too. Otherwise one will almost certainly be brighter than the other and looks foolish :)

And thank you for that tip. If i DIY'd it, id prolly have only replaced the one. lol

Yaris Hilton

07-13-2009, 10:43 AM

Installing HID lights isn't just a matter of changing bulbs. They have to have a special power supply. Ridiculously expensive.

devinlamothe

07-13-2009, 02:04 PM

I may or may not try to just replace them myself (im really not a DIY guy *at all*)

But either way, think I may go the route of buying some better headlight bulbs.

So obviously you'd recommend the GE Nighthawks.

Anyone else have bulbs they'd recommend instead of replacing with new OEM ones?

At the Nighhawks HID?

Nope, the Nighthawks aren't HID, they are just 'brighter' halogen bulbs. You can really notice the difference with your high beams. It's like night and day ... literally.

Jem_hadar

07-13-2009, 08:30 PM

Nope, the Nighthawks aren't HID, they are just 'brighter' halogen bulbs. You can really notice the difference with your high beams. It's like night and day ... literally.

I think ill buy some Nighthawks or SilverStars. A friend recommended and loves his SilverStars (installs them on all his rides), but ive read online about ppl complaining about their short(er) lifespan, and apparently it seems most ppl agree the Nighthawks are a better, more illuminating headlight.

Jem_hadar

07-14-2009, 06:10 PM

Taking my car into Toyo tomorrow to get looked it. Ill post back here what's discovered.

--

And re: the lights, prolly gonna end up w/ nighthawks. since i know cdn tire carries them. easy. think they are $25 a pop.

Gonna see if cdn tire dont carry a two pack which would be cheaper (like costco does, for $36), and/or ill double check to see if wal-mart has them. apparently ones in the city (toronto) have been known to carry them.

Jem_hadar

07-15-2009, 04:53 PM

Just got the call.

Turns out had to do w/ my rear brakes, the shoes. They've fixed the issues.

Apparently the front were getting pretty bad too. Having that delt with too (whatever it is they're doing to remedy the situation... ive already forgotten the explanation).

EDIT:

From invoice:

CAUSE: Rear brakes out of adjustment & frt brakes need serviced

CORRECTION: Labour to perform 4 wheel brake service

Yaris Hilton

07-15-2009, 06:06 PM

Good to have that fixed!

Jem_hadar

07-15-2009, 06:15 PM

Good to have that fixed!

Yes, thanks. $140 later though.

But good to have it fixed, nonetheless.

window_lee

07-16-2009, 02:19 AM

I got the same problem with the drum brake too

Jem_hadar

07-28-2009, 12:03 PM

Tried to change the lights on Monday... couldnt get two of the damn clips off, even with a screwdriver... could they have made it any more difficult to try and change the lights? I'm thinking not. lol

When my attempt failed, I took it to my friend who I thought I knew FOR SURE would be able to do it for me (as he's changed the lights in all of his prior cars)... and even he couldnt get those same damn tricky little clips off on the inside! Arg

Cant believe how hard toyota made it to remove the highlights...

Im just taking it to the dealership for them to do on friday. Not worth the hassle and frustration for only $30-40.

Shame.

Yaris Hilton

07-28-2009, 11:30 PM

I'm really mad about how they did the headlights & front marker lights.

devinlamothe

07-29-2009, 01:00 AM

Too bad you weren't closer I'd offer to change them for you lol

And yeah the clips are a pain but once you get one off it's not that bad. I just hate the rubber piece.

Jem_hadar

07-29-2009, 11:06 AM

I'm really mad about how they did the headlights & front marker lights.

Thats what my buddy said when i went to him after being unable to change them myself.

He couldnt believe how difficult they'd made it in my Yaris. He was truly surprised, bc hes never had any difficulty before, on 5 or 6 different cars. Should just be a 5-10 min job he said.

We spent over 15 trying to get the clips off...

Too bad you weren't closer I'd offer to change them for you lol

And yeah the clips are a pain but once you get one off it's not that bad. I just hate the rubber piece.

And thanks for even throwing that out there. Appreciate the thought and consideration.

Snyprwlf47

07-29-2009, 11:23 AM

I hit a deer recently and it took out a headlight and when I got the new one the clips and rubber piece were alot different and easier to get off then my other headlight. Maybe I got a newer model headlight:iono: I unno but its easy to remove the light now.:thumbup:

Darb

07-29-2009, 11:33 AM

Thats what my buddy said when i went to him after being unable to change them myself.

He couldnt believe how difficult they'd made it in my Yaris. He was truly surprised, bc hes never had any difficulty before, on 5 or 6 different cars. Should just be a 5-10 min job he said.

We spent over 15 trying to get the clips off...

And thanks for even throwing that out there. Appreciate the thought and consideration.

I have yet to need to replace/upgrade my headlights, but I'm not looking forward to it. I guess that's what we get for having an engine bay the size of a shoebox.

Regarding the clip, is it one of those push-in-and-down dealies? It seems the to be the most common type.

Yarisight

07-30-2009, 08:23 PM

I'm really mad about how they did the headlights & front marker lights.

Yea...me too...

You'd have to be a Pygmy midget contortionist with the hands of a fetus to get them fecking bulbs out. I tried to change my headlight bulbs one time, and I almost had a stroke I was so pissed off. My hands are too big to get them out. WTF Toyota? Simple bulb changes should be user friendly.

Yaris Hilton

07-31-2009, 12:51 AM

Yep, that's supposed to be about as basic as basic maintenance gets.

Jem_hadar

07-31-2009, 03:12 PM

silver_echo

07-31-2009, 04:25 PM

OK what?!

Steve at the dealership just calls me back at work after I dropped off my car with the replacement GE headlights for them to install.

He tells me that bc they need to remove the whole front bumber to get at them, so its gonna be more like an hour's job, so it could cost me like $80. He wanted to make sure i knew that before they went ahead...

WTF... can changing these damned headlights really take up to an hour, even w/ the bumber removal bs?!

probably won't take the tech that long, but over at the stealership, flat rate is king... and if it is decided that the bumper needs to be removed, then they add the labor time for removing the bumper... kinda sucks, but that is the way it is...

ezhacker1

07-31-2009, 04:35 PM

LMAO o come on. you dont need to take off the bumper. just take off all the black push pin things, then fry the bumper towards you to get to the 3 screws that hold the headlight assembly in place. then its easy peasy. All this in 5 min or less.

O this is the dreaded HB yaris too.

Yaris Hilton

07-31-2009, 04:52 PM

Still a stupid way to design it. Also, the Toyota recommended way to change the O2 sensor involves removing the floorboards and working from above.

My old 1940 Ford still holds the record for the hardest car to work on by design that I've ever seen, though.

Jem_hadar

07-31-2009, 05:58 PM

devinlamothe

07-31-2009, 06:47 PM

Makes me wanna scream.

Labour cost was $64... sharmota! :mad:

Ouch that seems like a ripoff. Considering ezhacker is right ... all you have to do is undo the bumper clips, unscrew the headlight and then remove the bulb ... maybe takes 10 mins per light.

I agree though, it was pretty lame from an ease of use point of view. They make you never want to change the bulbs lol.

Jem_hadar

07-31-2009, 07:09 PM

Ouch that seems like a ripoff. Considering ezhacker is right ... all you have to do is undo the bumper clips, unscrew the headlight and then remove the bulb ... maybe takes 10 mins per light.

I agree though, it was pretty lame from an ease of use point of view. They make you never want to change the bulbs lol.

What annoys me is that yall are saying you DONT HAVE to remove the whole bloody bumper... so why the f*ck would they determine that they had to??

10 mins your way vs. almost an hour their way (w/ bumper removal)

WTF

Even more annoying is that I tried myself (and as well with the help of a more DIY-savvy friend) to do this, but could end up getting the clips off! Ugh (and we tried and tried for like 15-20 mins... those couple on each side were such little bitches to get at! ARG)

ezhacker1

07-31-2009, 08:02 PM

yeah the bumper clips (not the black push pins) on the side are pain. i was scared of cracking the bumper, but force is definitely necessary to get it off.

o and i figured this route out after i took off my bumper to get to the lights ....lol

CTScott

07-31-2009, 10:02 PM

What annoys me is that yall are saying you DONT HAVE to remove the whole bloody bumper... so why the f*ck would they determine that they had to??

10 mins your way vs. almost an hour their way (w/ bumper removal)

WTF

Even more annoying is that I tried myself (and as well with the help of a more DIY-savvy friend) to do this, but could end up getting the clips off! Ugh (and we tried and tried for like 15-20 mins... those couple on each side were such little bitches to get at! ARG)

They follow the service manual procedure, which says to fully remove it. Theoretically flexing the bumper could cause it crack or whatever.

I pulled my bumper once to change the bulbs and a second time to install fogs. Fully removing the bumper only takes 5 to 10 minutes. when I changed my bulbs I was completely done in less than 30 minutes and that included taking a bunch of picture of my car with it off and checking out all the things I could see with it off.

They probably were done even quicker than that, but hit you with a minimum labor charge.

Jem_hadar

08-02-2009, 02:01 PM

They follow the service manual procedure, which says to fully remove it.
...
They probably were done even quicker than that, but hit you with a minimum labor charge.

Agreed on both parts, unfort.

PhilD424

08-02-2009, 02:41 PM

Reason why all of you are having problems with the rear drums wearing out and not being properly alligned is because you guys aren't using your handbrakes when you park.

AlexNet0

08-02-2009, 02:47 PM

I use the handbrake every single time, actually most times, thats all I use.

My rears still wore out in 63-64k miles. thats not bad.

PhilD424

08-02-2009, 02:48 PM

The Japs always have to do things the hard way which is one of many reasons why I hate japped cars. What a stupid design.

Yaris Hilton

08-02-2009, 03:12 PM

I agree that it's stupid, but like I said the good old 1940 Ford was far worse. Try adjusting the valves or replacing the clutch on one of those American classics.

devinlamothe

08-02-2009, 05:18 PM

Reason why all of you are having problems with the rear drums wearing out and not being properly alligned is because you guys aren't using your handbrakes when you park.

I don't think so ... I always use my handbreak when I park. Although I've developed drum problems around 110k km so it may have prolonged it ...

Jem_hadar

08-02-2009, 05:46 PM

Reason why all of you are having problems with the rear drums wearing out and not being properly alligned is because you guys aren't using your handbrakes when you park.

Non.

I've use my parking break absolutely EVERY single time I've ever parked my Yaris. Absolutely. Every. Time.

Jem

Jem_hadar

08-02-2009, 07:07 PM

just to let you guys know , the first time is always the hardest to remove the bulb , you have to get rid of that super tight membrane then you have to play around with your fingers to unclip the spring. when you have done it once all the other times will be like sliding through butter.....

Thanks for commenting this... bc I believe im gonna try harder to change them myself next time i have to replace a front bulb.

90tsi

08-02-2009, 07:11 PM

so if I told everyone that i can change the bulb out on both sides of my car with out removing anything sound crazy? thats how i did all my bulbs on my 07 and 09. I didnt find it that bigga deal... even when i did my HID conversion on both of them.