Fits: 2012-2015 Toyota Prius (XW30).
These steps cover both builds. Two projector cups per side is the Dual build, three is the Triple. They share the same housing and fitment and install exactly the same way. No adapter harness is needed.
Before You Start
- Check which build you received: count the projector cups per side.
- Park on level ground, switch off, and disconnect the negative battery terminal while handling wiring.
- Tape the painted edges around the bumper cover and fender before removal.
- Do not put dielectric or weather-sealing grease on connectors or sockets.
Required Tools
- Trim removal tool or panel clip tool
- Metric socket and ratchet set
- Phillips screwdriver
- Clean microfiber towels and masking tape
- A wall or flat vertical surface for checking beam aim
Part 1: Remove the Factory Headlights
Step 1: Free the Front Bumper Cover
The Prius headlight is captured behind the edge of the bumper cover, so the cover has to come clear before the lamp will move. Release the upper clips and the fender-side fasteners far enough to draw the cover away from the lamp.
Step 2: Unbolt the Headlight
Support the lamp as the last fastener comes out.
Step 3: Disconnect the Wiring
Press the lock tab and pull on the connector body, not on the wires.
Step 4: Compare Before Fitting
Hold the new lamp against the original and confirm the mounting tabs and plug position match. This is the back of the new lamp — check the socket, the mounting tabs and where the harness exits against the lamp you just removed.
Part 2: Install the New Headlights
Step 5: Connect
Plug the new lamp into the factory connector and confirm the lock tab clicks home.
Step 6: Test Before Closing Up
With the lamp still loose, confirm low beam, high beam, the white daytime running light, the amber side marker, the sequential amber turn signal and the startup animation.
Step 7: Seat and Bolt the Lamp
Check the gap against the fender, hood and bumper cover before tightening.
Step 8: Refit and Repeat
Refit the bumper cover, do the other side, then reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Step 9: Check the Beam Aim
Park square to a flat vertical surface and confirm the cutoff line sits level and at the same height on both sides.
Common Issues and Solutions
One headlight does not light. Recheck the connector lock, the related fuse and the battery connection. Inspect the pins inside the connector; if any are bent, carefully straighten them with a small precision tool and reconnect securely.
Hyperflash or a dash warning. Confirm both sides are wired the same way and every plug is fully seated.
Body gaps look uneven. Before adjusting the lamp itself, check that the bumper cover is fully re-clipped over the lamp edge.
Condensation inside the headlight. Temperature differences can cause light condensation, which is normal. Once the light has been on for a while and the internal temperature stabilizes, the moisture clears on its own. It does not affect brightness, performance, or lifespan.
