1997-2004 C5 Headlight Motor Restoration Service LH or RH Each
Don’t gamble with junkyard guesses or premature replacements. Restore your original 1997–2004 Corvette headlight motor to GM factory performance with our Mid America Motorworks Headlight Motor Restoration Service. We’ll disassemble, clean, and inspect your motor, replace the drive gear, and perform a full electrical overhaul—including RPM matching. Every unit is rebuilt individually and tested for OE-grade performance.
Features
• Fits 1997–2004 Corvettes – Left or Right Side
• Complete electrical and mechanical restoration
• Includes new drive gear installation
• RPM-calibrated to original GM specs
• 1-Year Limited Warranty
Service and Shipping Instructions
• Turnaround time is 3–4 weeks from receipt
• Ship only the headlight motor (not the entire bucket/frame)
• Wrap securely with at least 2" of bubble wrap on all sides
• Label package: Attention Restoration Department
• Include: Year, contact phone number, reason for service, and return address
Ship To:
Mid America Motorworks
Attention Restorations
2800 N. 3rd Street
Effingham, IL 62401
Most customers choose USPS for convenience, but UPS and FedEx are also acceptable. We recommend insuring your headlight motor for $400 to protect against shipping damage.
If you'd prefer to drop it off in person, bring your headlight motor to our Retail Store in Effingham.
Because Details Matter
You know how a failed headlight motor affects driveability, safety, and presentation. Our restoration service revives your original motor’s integrity with OE-match precision—and saves you the hunt for quality replacements.
Diagnosing and Preventing C5 Headlight Motor Failures
Before installing your new C5 headlight motor actuator, it’s essential to inspect the entire headlight system for the root cause of failure. Replacing the motor without correcting alignment or electrical issues may result in premature wear—or worse, an immediate repeat failure.
Dead Motor Diagnosis
If the C5 headlight motor doesn’t respond, don’t assume it's failed. First, verify voltage at the motor with a multimeter. For a direct test, apply 12V power from the battery to the motor terminals. If it activates, the issue lies elsewhere—often in the headlight switch, wiring, or relay.
Check Headlight Bucket Alignment
One of the most common (and overlooked) causes of C5 headlight motor failure is a misaligned headlight bucket. With the motors removed, manually rotate the buckets from fully closed to fully open. There should be no resistance, binding, or rough spots. Many C5s have prior front-end damage, causing interference that puts excess strain on the motor. Buckets should move smoothly and evenly.
Evaluate the Headlight Switch Module
If the gear indicator light works, but the headlights don’t pop up, your headlight control module or switch could be at fault. Try adjusting the Twilight Sentinel settings in the DIC. Also test for power and ground to the actuator. If voltage isn’t present, the switch or relay circuit is likely at fault.
Gear Noise = Internal Failure
If the headlight motor spins continuously or you hear it engage without movement, the internal gear is likely stripped. C5 motors are prone to this issue—especially with age or binding buckets. Replace the motor with a new unit to restore proper lift function.
Also known under these part numbers: (For reference only)
- 686420036272
- C5HEADLIGHTREST