Range Rover can’t open headlight

As a Range Rover owner for many years, I have become quite familiar with the vehicle’s reliability issues. It’s almost like a rite of passage for Range Rover owners to experience some sort of problem.

One that I encountered was a headlight that wouldn’t open. If you, too, are facing this issue, fear not, for I’ve written a comprehensive guide to help you fix it.

What models are affected?

• Land Rover Defender
• Range Rover Discovery
• Range Rover Evoque
• Range Rover Sport
• Range Rover Velar
• Range Rover Vogue

Signs and symptoms

The most obvious sign that your Range Rover is experiencing headlight problems is that it won’t open.

If you’re repeatedly pressing the button to open the headlight and it’s still not working, you may have a problem.

Another sign is if you hear a clicking noise when you try to open it but nothing happens.

List of possible OBD codes

The most common OBD codes for a headlight that won’t open are the P1499 and P1504 codes.

Common causes

• Broken Plastic Piece: The plastic piece that connects the headlight to the motor often snaps, causing the headlight to stop opening. This can happen due to age or exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Bad Motor: The motor that opens the headlight can burn out or stop working.
• Weak Battery: A weak or dead battery can cause the motor to stop working.

Can it be fixed without a mechanic?

Yes, in some cases it can be fixed without a mechanic. However, if you’re not comfortable working with car parts or if the issue is more complicated than replacing a battery, then it’s best to bring it to a mechanic.

Parts you’ll need to fix it

• The plastic piece that connects the headlight to the motor.
• Replacement motor, if necessary.

Tools you’ll need to fix it

• Wrench
• Screwdriver
• Pliers

How to fix it

1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Open the hood.
3. Locate the headlight that is not opening.
4. Using a wrench, unscrew the plastic piece that connects the headlight to the motor and removes the broken piece.
5. If the motor is broken and needs to be replaced, remove the motor from the other side, using a screwdriver and pliers.
6. Install the new motor.
7. Attach the plastic piece that connects the headlight to the motor.
8. Reconnect the battery.
9. Test the headlight to ensure it’s opening correctly.

Potential alternative causes

• Overheated Headlight: If the headlight has been on for a long time, it may overheat and need to cool down before it can open.
• Dirty/Locked Mechanism: Sometimes the headlight mechanism can become too dirty or locked up. Try cleaning the mechanism first before doing any repairs.

FAQs

Summary

A Range Rover can’t open headlight can be frustrating, but hopefully, this guide has helped you diagnose and fix the issue. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about fixing it yourself, it’s always better to bring it to a mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly.

Last updated and verified on 4th September 2023