K I'm probably going to be replacing my moms headlights soon and was wondering what is the safest way to take out the headlights WITHOUT scratching the paint.

She has a $5k paint job on this camaro so you can see why I want to be as careful as possible

 

Lay several layers of masking tape below the lamps.

JamesC

 

Hm, true. lol

 

Make sure you only use masking/painters tape, other types of tape may leave the adhesive behind or could possibly damage the paint when you try to pull it off.

 

I tucked a small rag under the light, then aimed the light all the way up. Removed the top 2 trim screws and pulled the trim peice forward enough to get the light out. There may be a better way to do this, but I found that to be the easiest way for me.

 

Use a low adhesive tape like charcoalbird said, when i redone my car i drilled holes from the inside so i could screw and unscrew them, makes it easier.

 

I put one of those buffing clothes down in the bucket area. Never had a problem scratching paint that way.