How To Install Projector Headlights on S550 Mustang

How To Install Projector Headlights on S550 Mustang

Last Updated August 8, 2023 | Bill Tumas

Installing a set of projector headlights on your S550 Mustang is a great way to improve the look of the front end and increase nighttime visibility. In this article, we're going to be installing a set from FORM Lighting, but the process is largely similar on any 2018-2023 Mustang GT or EcoBoost. The headlight assemblies from FORM Lighting are direct replacements for the factory headlights, so the process is simple and easy.

Mustang Projector Headlights Install Instructions

Parts and Tools Needed:

  • 1/4" Ratchet
  • 5.5 mm Socket
  • 7 mm Socket
  • 8 mm Socket
  • 10 mm Wrench
  • Panel Removal Tools
  • Basic Wiring Tools

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Step 1: Remove Plastic Radiator Clips

Remove the eight plastic clips on the radiator cover by pulling up on the center of each clip and pulling them out.

Mechanic removing radiator cover on an S550 Mustang

Then, remove the radiator cover.

Step 2: Remove Hardware Holding Bumper

Remove the eight screws underneath the radiator cover holding the bumper to the radiator support.

Mechanic removing radiator support hardware to remove the bumper on an S550 Mustang

Step 3: Pull Back Fender Liner

Remove the five clips holding the fender liner in place and pull it back to access two nuts holding the front bumper to the front fender. Repeat this process on the other side.

Mechanic removing fender liner hardware

Step 4: Separate Front Bumper from Front Fender

Loosen the two nuts you located in the previous step and separate the bumper from the fender. Simply push on the pin between the nuts and pull it down until they come apart.

Mechanic separating front bumper from front fender

Repeat this process on the other side.

Step 5: Lift Your Mustang

Raise the car using either a lift or a jack and jack stands.

Mechanic underneath a Mustang on a lift

Pro Tip: If you aren't sure where to safely place your jack or stands, check out our S550 jack points guide.

Step 6: Remove Belly Pan Hardware

Remove the pushpins and screws holding the belly pan in place.

Mechanic removing belly pan hardware

Step 7: Remove Front Bumper

Return to the front of the car and lift the front bumper over the alignment tabs and pull towards yourself. The bumper should start to separate from the support.

Mechanic removing front bumper on an S550 Mustang

Also, remember to unplug the marker lights before pulling the bumper fully off.

Step 8: Remove Stock Headlights

Unscrew the three headlight mounting bolts and carefully pull the stock headlight off, unplugging everything in the process. Repeat this on the other side.

Mechanic removing the S550 Mustang stock headlights

Step 9: Mount Aftermarket Headlights

Mount both aftermarket headlights using the factory mounting positions and reinstall the original hardware.

Mechanic mounting aftermarket headlights

Step 10: Tap Into Factory Turn Signal Harness

To make the turn signals work, hold the turn signal harness facing up and locate the second wire from the end (yellow).

Mechanic tapping into the factory wiring harness

Tap into this wire with the provided wiretaps, or you can solder it for a more secure connection. Do this for both headlights.

Step 11: Plug in Modified Harness

Reach behind the mounted headlight and reconnect the modified wiring. Repeat this process on the other side.

Mechanic plugging the modified harness into the headlights

To test your wiring, turn your hazard lights on and ensure they work properly.

Step 12: Reattach Front Bumper

Raise your front bumper up to the front of your car and plug the marker lights back in. Then, put the bumper back onto the alignment tabs.

Mechanic reattaching the front bumper on an S550 Mustang

Step 13: Align Front Bumper and Fenders

Make sure your bumper goes above the tabs on the headlight and line it up with the front fender until they click together. Repeat this process on the other side, and reinstall the hardware.

Mechanic aligning the front bumper with the front fenders of an S550 Mustang

Step 14: Reinstall Belly Pan Hardware

Reinstall the factory pushpins and screws into the belly pan.

Mechanic reinstalling the belly pan hardware on an S550 Mustang

Step 15: Reinstall Fender Liner Hardware

Reinstall the factory clips to hold the both fender liners in place. Each side should have five clips.

Mechanic reinstalling the fender liner hardware on an S550 Mustang

Step 16: Reinstall Radiator Support Hardware

Reinstall the factory hardware connecting the front bumper to the radiator support.

Mechanic reinstalling the radiator support hardware on an S550 Mustang

Step 17: Reinstall Radiator Cover

Put the radiator cover back in place and reinstall the factory hardware.

Mechanic reinstalling the radiator cover on an S550 Mustang

Congratulations, you're all done!

Make the Most of Your New S550 Headlights

With your newly installed projector headlights, you'll be able to see more clearly at night and in adverse weather conditions. If you're looking to upgrade your Mustang lighting further, adding a set of fog lights to compliment your new headlights is an easy and effective way to increase nighttime visibility.


This article was researched, written, edited, and reviewed following the steps outlined in our editorial process. Learn more about our editorial standards and guidelines.