2000 Echo left headlamp replacement

[mek42]

Is the procedure given in an earlier thread (below) for a 2000 Corolla the same for a 2000 Echo?

Headlight bulb change 2000 corolla - how to do it

Thanks!

[jambo101]

The headlamp bulb replacement is mostly universal on most japanese cars,basically peel back the rubber cover ,pull out the plug,rotate and pull out plastic bulb holder,replace bulb and reassemble,the hardest part of the operation may be actually getting at the assembly.
Heres what a Honda setup looks like.its almost identicle to the Toyota.

http://autorepair.about.com/library/images/bl579lib.htm

[mek42]

Great! Any advice on how to remove the exterior rubber "boot" without damaging it?

For that matter, are there any tips for putting the rubber boot back on when done?

[jambo101]

The boot should either shimmy off or just come off with the plug,you wont damage the boot as its made of tough stuff,when i put it back on i usually wipe a dab of silicon lubricant around the inside so it comes off easier the next time you do it.When changing bulbs be careful not to touch any part of the glass on the new bulb as the glass has to remain scrupulously clean or it will prematurely burn out.
PS check your owners manual i think it tells you the process somewhere in there.

[mek42]

Ok, I figured it out. In case some future reader is interested here is the procedure:

First unplug the socket from the bulb.

Then remove the rubber boot by primarily rearwards force using the tabs as grips.

The bulb is retained with a steel wire clip. On the left (US driver side) lamp, the part of this clip that needs to be manipulated is located closest to the engine. Just gently push on this until it releases and the lamp should pop right out (try not to drop the lamp - I didn't but it did come right out).

Then put the new lamp in - you may need to fiddle with it to make sure it is properly seated before re-engaging the wire clip. I did this entirely by feel since it was dark when I was doing the work and I don't know that there's an angle of view for this procedure anyhow.

Slide the rubber boot back on.

Plug the electrical socket back onto the lamp.

Turn on the lights to test and verify that high beams both work also.

Done.