Chevrolet Car Parts UK - Quality Used & Genuine Parts

How to Replace Chevrolet Headlights

Chevrolet headlight replacement varies between models but follows similar principles. Whether replacing standard halogen units or upgrading to LED headlights, this guide covers Silverado trucks, Cruze sedans, Equinox crossovers, and other Chevrolet vehicles.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the bonnet and secure it safely. Locate the rear of the headlight assembly from within the engine bay. On Silverado trucks, the high bonnet line provides excellent access to headlight mountings. On Cruze and compact models, you may need to work around the battery or air filter housing. On Equinox and SUV models, access is generally straightforward with ample space. Ensure adequate lighting to see clearly behind the headlight assembly.
2. Disconnect all electrical connectors. Chevrolet headlights typically have 1-3 electrical connectors depending on equipment. These include main bulb connector, side light connector, and on some models additional connections for daytime running lights or adaptive lighting systems. Press the release tabs carefully and pull straight out. Some connectors twist counterclockwise before pulling. Keep track of which connector goes where to ensure correct reconnection.
3. Remove the headlight mounting bolts. Most Chevrolet models use 10mm bolts to secure the headlight assembly. On Silverado trucks from 2014-2018, there are typically 3-4 bolts along the top edge accessible once the bonnet is open. On Cruze models, expect 2-3 mounting bolts with possible additional lower mounting points. On Equinox and Traverse SUVs, headlights usually have 3 mounting bolts easily accessible from above. Remove all mounting bolts completely and keep them organized as replacement headlights may not include new hardware.
4. Release any additional clips or retainers. Some Chevrolet headlights use supplementary plastic clips for additional security. On Silverado trucks, check for clips at the inner corner near the grille. On Cruze models, look for tabs that slot into the bumper cover. On SUV models, inspect the bottom edge for retention clips. Work carefully as plastic clips can become brittle with age especially on older vehicles exposed to temperature extremes.
5. Carefully remove the headlight assembly. With all bolts and clips released, gently pull the headlight straight forward out of its mounting position. Chevrolet headlights typically slide forward with moderate force. Support the weight as you pull to prevent dropping. If you encounter resistance, stop and check for missed fixings rather than forcing. On some models, you may need to angle the headlight slightly to clear surrounding components during removal.
6. Transfer components to new headlight if needed. If your replacement headlight doesn't include bulbs, inspect bulbs from old unit for condition before transferring. When handling halogen bulbs, wear clean gloves to avoid touching glass surfaces with bare hands as skin oils cause hot spots leading to premature failure. For vehicles with separate indicator bulbs, transfer these carefully ensuring correct orientation in new housing.
7. Install the new headlight assembly. Reverse the removal process by aligning the new headlight with mounting points and push firmly into place ensuring all locating tabs engage correctly. Refit all mounting bolts and tighten securely but avoid overtightening plastic mounting points. Reconnect all electrical connections ensuring each clicks firmly into place. Test all lighting functions before final assembly including dipped beam, main beam, side lights, indicators, and daytime running lights if equipped. Check headlight alignment visually against wall at night and adjust if necessary using adjustment screws typically located on rear of assembly.

Important Notes: Chevrolet headlight replacement is straightforward on most models. When installing aftermarket headlights, verify they include necessary bulb holders and wiring adapters as some cheaper units require transferring components from original headlights. On newer Chevrolet models with LED or HID systems, headlights may require programming to vehicle ECU to avoid dashboard warning lights. Proper headlight alignment is crucial for optimal visibility and to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers.

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How to Replace Chevrolet Front Bumper

Replacing a Chevrolet front bumper is achievable in 60-120 minutes depending on model. This process covers Silverado trucks, Cruze sedans, Equinox crossovers, and other Chevrolet vehicles, though specific fixing locations vary between generations and body styles.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the bonnet and secure it with the prop rod. Locate the upper bumper mounting fixings along the top edge behind the grille area. Most Chevrolet models have 4-8 bolts or screws securing the bumper from above. On Silverado trucks, these are typically 10mm bolts along the radiator support. On Cruze sedans, expect T20 or T25 Torx screws across the top. On Equinox and SUV models, you'll find 6-8 fixings across the upper edge. Remove all upper fixings systematically and keep organized.
2. Access the wheel arch areas on both sides. Turn the steering wheel fully to one side to maximize access to the wheel arch liner. Behind each front wheel, locate the plastic arch liner secured by screws and plastic push-clips. You may need to remove 3-5 screws or clips to fold back the liner sufficiently to expose side bumper mounting points. Chevrolet uses various plastic clip types including push-pin clips that release by pressing center pin first then pulling entire clip. Repeat process on both sides carefully as arch liner clips break easily on older vehicles.
3. Remove the side mounting screws from both wheel arches. Behind each wheel arch liner, you'll find 2-4 screws or bolts securing each side of the bumper to the wing and chassis. These are usually 10mm bolts or 8mm screws on Chevrolet models. On Silverado trucks, expect substantial bolts through metal brackets. On car models, these are typically smaller screws through plastic mounting points. Remove all side fixings on both driver and passenger sides keeping track of different lengths if applicable.
4. Remove undertray screws and lower bumper fixings. Safely raise the front of the vehicle using ramps or jack stands ensuring stability. Locate and remove all screws and clips securing the engine undertray and lower edge of the bumper. Chevrolet typically uses 8-15 fixings along the bottom edge. These may be 8mm or 10mm bolts, plastic push-clips, or combination of both. On Silverado trucks, substantial bolts secure the bumper to frame rails. On car models, plastic clips are more common. You don't always need to fully remove the undertray but may need to drop it for access.
5. Disconnect fog lights, sensors, and electrical connections. Reach behind the bumper and disconnect all electrical connectors including fog lights if fitted as standard or aftermarket, parking sensor connections if equipped with parking assist typically 4-8 sensors across bumper, any additional connections for cameras on newer models with forward collision systems, and washer jet connections if washer nozzles are integrated into bumper. Press release tabs carefully and pull straight out. Count connections as you disconnect to ensure complete reconnection during refitting.
6. Release the bumper side clips and mounting tabs. Chevrolet bumpers are secured by plastic clips or metal brackets on each side that engage with the wings. With all fixings removed, firmly but gently pull the bumper forward from one corner while supporting the opposite side. You may need to wiggle slightly to release stubborn clips. Listen for clicks as clips disengage from their mounting points. On some models, bumper tabs slot vertically into wing mounting points requiring upward lift while pulling forward.
7. Remove the bumper completely from the vehicle. With all fixings removed and clips released, carefully pull the bumper straight forward away from the vehicle. Chevrolet bumpers vary in weight with Silverado bumpers being substantial and heavy requiring two people, while Cruze and compact model bumpers are lighter but still benefit from assistance due to size. Place the removed bumper on a protected surface such as cardboard or blankets to avoid scratching painted surfaces or damaging mounting tabs.
8. Prepare and fit the replacement bumper assembly. Before installation, transfer any brackets, trim pieces, grille components, or tow hook covers from the old bumper if not fitted to your replacement. Check all mounting tabs on new bumper are intact and not damaged during shipping. Align the new bumper with mounting points ensuring side clips are positioned to engage properly with wing mounting slots. Push firmly into place listening and feeling for all clips to engage with distinct clicks. Reconnect all electrical connections including fog lights, parking sensors, cameras, and washer jets ensuring each connection clicks securely. Systematically secure with all screws, bolts, and clips in reverse order of removal. Tighten all fixings securely but avoid overtightening plastic mounting points which can crack. Test all electrical functions including fog lights and parking sensors before final assembly. Check panel gaps are even on both sides and bumper sits flush with wings and bonnet. On Silverado trucks, verify bumper is level and aligned with frame mounting points.

Top Tips: Chevrolet bumpers are designed for practical replacement though complexity varies significantly between trucks and cars. When refitting parking sensors, ensure each is correctly aligned flush with bumper surface and seated fully in mounting holes as misaligned sensors give false readings. On Silverado and truck models, bumpers are heavy and awkward to maneuver so two people make the job significantly easier and safer. Check all panel gaps between bumper, wings, and bonnet are even before final tightening of all fixings. Aftermarket bumpers may require minor adjustment of mounting tabs for perfect fitment. On models with forward-facing cameras or radar for adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance, these may require recalibration at a Chevrolet dealership after bumper replacement to ensure proper operation.

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Common Chevrolet Parts Problems & Solutions

Chevrolet vehicles offer diverse range from efficient compact cars to powerful trucks and sports cars. RepairPal data shows Chevrolet has average annual repair costs of $649 versus $652 industry average with only 0.3 shop visits per year versus 0.4 industry average, making Chevrolet better than average for maintenance frequency. However, certain models and components experience specific recurring issues. Here are the most commonly reported Chevrolet parts problems based on verified data from UK owners, mechanics, Consumer Reports, and industry specialists.

Silverado Transmission Problems (2012-2022) - Major Issue:

• 8L90 and 10L90 Automatic Transmission Failures: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 models from 2014-2022 equipped with 8-speed 8L90 or 10-speed 10L90 automatic transmissions experience widespread problems. Consumer Reports gave 2021 Silverado only one star out of five for reliability with thousands of owner complaints about transmission issues. Common problems include harsh shifting especially from first to second gear causing jerking sensations, transmission shuddering and vibration particularly during acceleration or when towing loads, delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse with noticeable delay before movement, slipping gears where transmission unexpectedly changes gears or loses power, and complete transmission failure requiring rebuild or replacement. Technical Service Bulletin 22-NA-185 acknowledges 2-3 upshift slip or flare issues caused by trapped air in 3-5-R clutch assembly.
• Affected Models and Transmissions: Issues primarily affect 2014-2022 Silverado 1500 with 8L90 transmission, 2020-2022 Silverado with 10L90 10-speed transmission, Colorado midsize pickup with similar transmissions, and related GMC Sierra models sharing platforms. The 8L90 uses electronic solenoids and complex hydraulic systems prone to failure. Harsh shifting often stems from malfunctioning pressure control solenoids, worn clutch packs, or valve body issues. Many failures occur relatively early with problems reported from 30,000 to 80,000 miles though some experience issues much earlier.
• Repair Costs and Solutions: Transmission repairs are expensive with costs ranging from £1,500 to £4,000 depending on severity. Minor issues like software updates or solenoid replacement cost £500-£1,200. Complete transmission rebuild costs £2,500-£3,500. Full transmission replacement with remanufactured unit costs £3,000-£4,000 or more. Some owners report multiple transmission replacements under warranty suggesting fundamental design issues rather than isolated defects. Preventative maintenance includes using correct GM-approved Dexron VI transmission fluid, changing transmission fluid every 45,000-60,000 miles rather than relying on lifetime fill claims, avoiding heavy towing during first 5,000 miles to allow proper break-in, and monitoring for early warning signs including rough shifts or shuddering to address issues before catastrophic failure.
• Older 4L60E and 4L65E Transmission Issues: Earlier Silverado 1500 models from 1999-2013 with 4L60E or 4L65E 4-speed automatics also experience problems. Common issues include 1-2 accumulator failure causing harsh 1-2 shifts due to broken plastic accumulator, 3-4 clutch pack wear preventing shifting beyond third gear, and shift solenoid failures. These older transmissions are well-understood with established repair procedures and parts availability making repairs somewhat more affordable at £1,200-£2,500 for rebuilds.

1.4L Turbo Engine Problems (Cruze/Sonic 2011-2019) - Critical Issue:

• PCV System Failure and Excessive Oil Consumption: The 1.4L turbocharged Ecotec LUV and LUJ engines fitted to Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 and Sonic 2012-2020 are extremely problematic powerplants with widespread failures. The primary issue is PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system failure causing excessive crankcase pressure. The PCV valve integrated into the valve cover uses a rubber diaphragm that deteriorates and fails. Additionally, check valves in the intake manifold and corrugated tube fail allowing oil to be sucked through the turbo into intake system. This causes excessive oil consumption requiring top-ups every few hundred miles, oil fouling spark plugs and coating intake system, turbocharger failure from oil starvation or contamination, rough idle and misfires from oil-fouled components, and Check Engine light with codes P0171 (lean condition), P0106 (MAP sensor), P1101 (MAF sensor), or P0299 (turbo underboost).
• Coolant and Oil Mixing Issues: The 1.4L turbo engine is prone to coolant leaking into oil creating creamy "forbidden milkshake" substance visible on oil cap and dipstick. This catastrophic failure causes rusted and damaged camshafts and rocker arms from water exposure, complete engine failure requiring replacement, and typically results from failed head gasket, cracked cylinder head, or failed thermostat housing allowing coolant intrusion. Water pump failures are extremely common with GM extending warranty coverage to 10 years or 150,000 miles per Service Bulletin 14371A after widespread failures. Leaking plastic coolant outlets also fail regularly.
• Turbocharger Failures: Turbo failures are frequent on these engines caused by failed wastegate or bypass valve that sticks open bleeding boost pressure, oil starvation from PCV issues or clogged oil feed lines, and heat damage from oil feed lines positioned too close to exhaust manifold causing oil to bake into tar-like substance blocking turbo lubrication. Symptoms include loss of power and boost, blue or grey smoke from exhaust, whining or grinding noises from turbo, and Check Engine light with code P0299 for turbo underboost. Turbo replacement costs £380-£900 for parts with several hours labor adding £400-£600.
• Reliability Assessment and Costs: First-generation Cruze 2011-2015 is ranked as the worst Chevrolet generation to buy due to these engine issues. Repair costs are substantial with PCV valve cover replacement costing £200-£400, intake manifold replacement costing £250-£500, turbocharger replacement costing £800-£1,500 total, water pump replacement costing £480-£690, and complete engine replacement due to coolant contamination costing £2,500-£4,000. One Reddit owner stated every weekend was spent changing coolant parts or valve covers with constant leaks. Prevention requires checking oil level every 500 miles and topping up as needed, changing oil every 5,000 miles maximum using quality synthetic oil, inspecting PCV system regularly and replacing at first sign of deterioration, monitoring coolant level for drops indicating leaks, and addressing any oil consumption or coolant leaks immediately before they cause catastrophic damage. The 1.8L naturally aspirated engine option is significantly more reliable though less powerful.

5.3L V8 Oil Consumption (1999-2017 Silverado):

• Excessive Oil Burning: Chevrolet Silverado models from 1999-2017 with 5.3L Vortec V8 engines experience excessive oil consumption. Engines burn 3-4 quarts between oil changes with some consuming even more. This is internal consumption not external leaks with oil bypassing worn piston rings into combustion chamber where it burns. Symptoms include blue-tinged exhaust smoke especially on acceleration, continuously fouled spark plugs requiring frequent replacement, and low oil level warnings if consumption goes unnoticed. Problem shows signs as early as 15,000 miles on some trucks and progressively worsens with mileage.
• Repair Solutions and Costs: Fixing excessive oil consumption requires either complete engine removal and rebuild with new piston rings, seals, and gaskets costing £3,000-£4,500 in labor and parts, or complete engine replacement with new or remanufactured unit costing £4,000-£6,000 total. Some owners simply top up oil regularly as workaround though this risks engine damage if oil level drops too low. The only prevention is monitoring oil level religiously between changes and topping up as needed. This issue affects millions of GM trucks making it one of the most widespread problems.

Oil Pressure Sensor and Switch Failures (Silverado All Years):

• False Low Oil Pressure Warnings: One of the most common Silverado problems is faulty oil pressure sensor or switch causing false low oil pressure warnings. Pre-2007 models used oil pressure switch behind intake manifold that frequently failed requiring intake removal for replacement making simple sensor replacement labor-intensive £300-£600 job. Post-2007 models use oil pressure sensor that fails regularly but is more accessible. The low oil pressure warning light illuminates even with correct oil level and pressure. True low oil pressure from worn engine bearings also occurs but sensor failure is more common especially on higher-mileage trucks. Diagnosis requires mechanical oil pressure gauge to verify actual pressure versus sensor reading.

Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failures (V8 Engines):

• Cylinder Deactivation System Problems: V8 engines equipped with Active Fuel Management (also called Dynamic Fuel Management) that deactivates cylinders for fuel economy experience lifter failures. Collapsed or stuck lifters cause ticking or tapping noises from engine, misfires and rough running, and Check Engine light with misfire codes. Repair requires replacing affected lifters, potentially camshaft if damaged, and often involves AFM delete kit to prevent recurrence. Costs range from £1,000-£2,500. Many owners proactively install AFM delete kits on high-mileage engines as preventative measure.

Electronic Power Steering Issues (Multiple Models):

• Steering Rack Failures: Cruze and other models with electric power steering experience stiff steering especially when turning at low speeds, grinding or whining noises from steering column, and intermittent loss of power assist. Electronic steering rack replacement costs £600-£1,200. Some issues resolve with software updates but mechanical failures require parts replacement.

Bolt EV Battery Fire Recall (2017-2022):

• Battery Defect and Fire Risk: Chevrolet Bolt EV models from 2017-2022 were recalled due to battery fire risk from defective LG battery cells. Two manufacturing defects could occur simultaneously causing short circuit and fire risk. GM recalled all 141,000 Bolt EVs produced requiring complete battery pack replacement costing GM nearly $2 billion. Owners were instructed to park outside away from structures until repairs completed. While praised for driving dynamics and range when operational, this massive recall severely damaged Bolt reputation leading to discontinuation after 2023.

Dashboard Cracking (2007-2014 Silverado):

• Upper Dashboard Pad Failure: 2007-2014 Silverado and Sierra models experience dashboard cracking especially in hot climates. The upper dashboard pad develops cracks typically starting near windscreen and defroster vents. This is purely cosmetic but unsightly. Replacement dashboard costs £300-£800 depending on supplier. GM issued extended warranty coverage for some affected vehicles but many owners paid out of pocket.

Ignition Switch Recall (2005-2014 Models):

• Safety Recall for Ignition Defect: Multiple GM vehicles including Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, and others from 2005-2014 were recalled for faulty ignition switches that could move from Run to Accessory position during driving causing loss of power, engine shutdown, and disabled airbags. This defect was linked to 124 deaths and 275 injuries. Ignition switch replacement was provided free under recall. When buying used Chevrolets from affected years, verify recall work was completed.

Chevrolet Reliability Assessment:

Mixed Reliability with Model-Specific Issues: Chevrolet's overall reliability is slightly below average compared to all brands but varies significantly by model. Consumer Reports 2024 ranked Chevrolet 20th out of 30 brands with reliability score of 43/100, below Asian brands averaging 63 and European brands averaging 46, but above average for American brands which scored 39 overall. RepairPal shows Chevrolet has $649 annual repair costs versus $652 industry average (essentially identical) with 0.3 shop visits per year versus 0.4 industry average (25% fewer visits, significantly better) and 15% severe repairs versus 12% industry average. This indicates Chevrolet visits shops less frequently than average but when repairs are needed they are slightly more likely to be serious.

Best and Worst Models: Top reliability performers include 2025 Trax awarded Cars.com Best Car of 2024 with J.D. Power 83/100 and RepairPal 4.0/5.0, 2025 Traverse with J.D. Power 88/100 Great rating, Corvette ranked #1 out of 40 Most Reliable Luxury Sports Cars by iSeeCars, Equinox with above-average Consumer Reports scores, and Silverado HD 2500/3500 heavy-duty trucks scoring better than 1500 light-duty. Worst reliability includes first-generation Cruze 2011-2015 ranked worst Chevrolet generation, Silverado 1500 2014-2022 with transmission issues scoring one star Consumer Reports, Blazer EV with below-average reliability, Colorado 2015-2022 with transmission problems, and Bolt EV due to battery recall despite good driving dynamics.

Prevention and Maintenance: To maximize Chevrolet reliability, follow strict maintenance schedules without extending intervals especially on 1.4L turbo engines, monitor oil levels weekly on 5.3L V8 and 1.4L turbo engines topping up as needed, change transmission fluid every 45,000-60,000 miles on 8L90/10L90 transmissions despite lifetime fill claims, address warning lights and symptoms immediately before minor issues become major failures, verify all recalls completed when buying used Chevrolets, consider extended warranty on models with known issues like Cruze 1.4L turbo, and choose proven reliable models like Trax, Traverse, and Corvette when possible. Despite issues with specific models, many Chevrolets provide reliable service with proper maintenance and attention to known problem areas.

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