I have read the posts, but still don't understand what is the down side of not replacing the cracked, disfigured lense over the turn siginal. Can just the turn siginal bulb be replaced if burned out ? 2005 XLR.

You're referencing two separate issues.

Ugly DRL bezels can be ignored -it's purely a cosmetic issue. To fix, the whole headlamp assembly must be replaced at a cost of close to $1000 per.

Defective bulbs can be replaced anytime --for consideraby less.

CC

Thanks ccclark, is it easy to replace the turn siginal bulb or do you have to remove the whole headlight assembly ?

If you have an 04 or 05 I would make sure you have the proper pigtail adapter that prevents yours from going bad in the first place.

If you have an 04 or 05 I would make sure you have the proper pigtail adapter that prevents yours from going bad in the first place.

The problem redone is trying to resolve hasn't been specifically stated yet. He's describing two completely different issues. As for the pigtail adapter harness, it's a required connection for the new, upgraded headlamp assemblies. There's nothing wrong with the original lighting harness; it just won't interface with the new headlamps.

There was a recall (NHTSA Campaign ID 06V263000) for defective headlamp DRL sockets on the 04-05's that could lead to bulb failure due to vibration and/or bad environmental seals. The affected side's turn signal would flash faster than normal on the instrument panel. If this is your problem, the dealer should replace the socket and bulb free of charge. 7689 XLRs were affected. You may have won the headlamp bulb lotto and not even know it!

The old headlamps have an orange bezel that gets a "frosty" look due to the material overheating. The newer units have a clear bezel and an orange bulb. The new bezels are more heat-resistant.

As for bulb replacement, the headlamp assembly needs to be removed (according to the shop manual) and is accessed through closeout panels located at the front of the wheelwell. There are a couple of nuts holding the headlamp in place. You may be able to remove the bulbs with these panels removed. Maybe someone who's done this can chime in with some pointers.

I can walk you through the process if you need to go this route.

CC :seeya

Thanks for the info. My XLR is a 2005, but it has clear bezels and orange bulbs, but the bezels are frosty. The problem came to my attention because the left turn siginal dash indicator blinks very fast and the turn siginal doesn't work. I will take it to the dealer armed with your information. Thanks very much !

Our 2005 also has the clear lens with orange bulbs and are frosted. Finally took it in and after some negotiation the dealer is replacing them both for $850. The headlamp assemblies are in now, just waiting for the harness adapters.

Dave