Headlight will not unlock seems stripped

[cmccloud]

I am trying to change some bulbs out on a 1999 Boxster. Removal tool was missing from tool kit. Using a 5mm nut driver bit. There looks to be a plastic six sided slot for the bit to fit in but when turning it to unlock Headlight it just turns without much resistance. It does seem to loosen a bit when going in the counter clockwise direction as instructed but does not fully release headlamp unit. Is there another way to release the Bow clamps from under the wheel well? I am guessing that the prior owner must have stripped the locking bow clamp because this is the first time I have had to change a bulb needed for an inspection. I have searched everything I can think of trying to find a fix for this short of taking it in to dealer (which I don't want to do $$$$$). Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!!

[insite]

it sounds like you're turning one of the headlight adjusters instead of the release cam.

[insite]

BTW, when you get the right slot, you will only be able to rotate the release cam by about 180deg. it will NOT continue to turn.

[cmccloud]

Turning the bottom one....assuming the top two ports are the light angle adjustments???

[insite]

there are actually three adjustment ports. the top two ajust the beam up/down and left/right. the bottom one adjusts the fog light.

[cmccloud]

So the locking port is the one with the bigger black rubber knob? Didn't seem like it came off.

[MN 986]

Yes, remove the larger round rubber plug to unlock and remove the headlight unit. IF I remember correctly, you use a 5mm socket and turn it toward the rear of the car to unlock (clockwise for passenger side, counter-clockwise for drivers side), and the opposite to re-lock. It does take a bit of force. Be sure they are pushed/slid all the way back in and maybe even keep a little pressure on them when re-locking.
Good luck!

[insite]

MN is exactly right. the big knob will pop right off.

[cmccloud]

Thanks VERY much for the help!! I was totally bummed thinking the thing was stripped!! You just made my day!!

[CactusBob]

I have a similar problem with changing out 986 headlight bulbs. Did the passenger one, no problem. Now working on the drivers side and with already 2-3X the force I applied on the passenger side I cannot get the light to pop out. I am wondering if leaning on it, pushing it in as I try ow what might help. I have torqued on it pretty darn hard an it does not pop/budge. Any Ideas?

[tcoradeschi]

Just keep at it. If memory serves correctly (and you can verify this on the passenger side), you want to rotate the tool such that the top of the tool is rotating toward the front of the car.