02 headlight retention bar/tool stripped
 

Removed headlight using tool OK

On reinstall tool felt to be skipping

Removed headlight held bar and confirmed tool skipping

Tool is from pouch in tool kit, looks OK

Unsure if tool or bar end is stripped

What is suggested next step?

Will a standard 5mm socket work, or too thick?

5mm from a 1/4 drive set works for me.

Funny you mention this. I replaced my halogens with Litronics yesterday and the tool would not release after locking one of the headlights in place. I finally got it off after removing the headlight a few times and the tool looks buggered up a bit.

+1, My car didn't have the tool in the kit. I haven't had any issues using the socket.

Using the socket is fine.

Headlights tend to get tricky when installing. I've had the same thing happening to you happen to me. Patience is the key. You'll eventually get everything lined up just right and they'll slip into place.