2001 LandCruiser - OEM Glass Headlights vs OEM Polycarbonate...???

[GregLCA]

As I started to look for a replacement headlamp housing for my 2001 LC, it turned out that not all replacement parts are glass like the one that my truck came with originally.

This was a bit of a surprise, but I guess not unexpected. I'm sure there are far fewer broken polycarbonate headlights (from rocks, etc) than there originally were when the lenses were glass.... I'm not a huge fan of polycarbonate in general just because of the way they turn foggy and yellow over time.

My other concern is how well my original (glass) headlight will match with a much newer looking polycarbonate version.

My original part was:

81059-60070

It shows that it is no longer available and was superseded by two newer part numbers:

81059-60071
81059-60072


All of these are listed as "valid" parts for my 2001, so I'm wondering if the newer part numbers represent the changeover at the factory from glass to polycarbonate?? Anyone know?



-G

 

[lhommec13]

Did you ever find an answer to your question? I'm in a similar situation where I only need the driver's side headlight assembly replaced, but I don't want to mix and match polycarbonate and glass if I can avoid it. Also are your part numbers above for driver's or passenger's side?

 

[GregLCA]

All of those part numbers are for the driver's side headlamp.

When I first picked up my replacement headlamp I was convinced that it was polycarbonate when I tapped on the lens. Now that it's installed, it has the same "feel" as the original (passenger side lens) when I rap my knuckles on it.... leading me to believe that it's actually glass.

Anyway... my final takeaways from the investigation were:

#1 - Most insurance companies WILL cover a broken headlamp under the "comprehensive" portion of your policy (like a broken windshield)... with no increase in rates later on. I only had a $100 deductible which is a LOT better than paying the $350 (full price OEM part) myself.

#2 - You can get a used part for around 1/2 price that matches the aged appearance of the remaining original headlamp.



-G

 

[lhommec13]

Thanks for the follow-up. While researching my options, I came across the facelift for older 98-05 Land Cruisers to the 06-07 front. I am seriously considering going for it, since a headlight isn't the only thing in need of replacement after a minor accident recently

 

[GregLCA]

Thanks for the follow-up. While researching my options, I came across the facelift for older 98-05 Land Cruisers to the 06-07 front. I am seriously considering going for it, since a headlight isn't the only thing in need of replacement after a minor accident recently

Fender bender?.....in Cambridge? How is that possible?


-G