Ghetto Repair discovered... Panel under the headlight

So I just found this ghetto "fix" for what I presume happened when the head lights were changed previously at Toyota with the last owner.

The crazy thing is, it came off like this. Was a tight fit and looked fine. Now it is physically impossible to put back on, and I mean impossible. Been messing with it for 45 minutes...

Ideas?

 

Super glue

 

Looks like old hot glue or some type of epoxy? I think the tab you need to go into the quarter panel is broken off.

 

Ghetto fix the ghetto fix! Maybe try to get behind it to figure out a way to hold it together. I can’t remember if you can get an arm up there.

 

The thing is I can see the paint on both parts and see how they fit together...but it isn't possible

 

I have a 2014 (not sure if it’s the same as yours) and I have taken those pieces off a bunch of times messing with different headlights. Every time it feels like they’re going to break. It’s a crappy design from the factory, that’s why I figure rigging something up might be just as good. I’d just glue them.

Edit: I can’t tell, but if it won’t fit back on, break out the file.

 

PL-400?

 

Well they aren't very expensive parts to buy on line...

 

There is a tab that fits into the fender that is broken off.

 

Think your fender tab is bent .Might need to straighten tab and buy the black bumper filler clip anf filler .





Like TomTom said

 

Alright so the black plastic thing is missing and for some reason they choose to add this... Super strong crap.

I got it back on after I realized changing the headlights was impossible... I think later I'll see about getting a dremal and cleaning the slot.

 

It’s not impossible, it’s just like a puzzle getting them in/out.

 

The Gf and I spent an hour trying to get to the last hidden bolt... I don't see a way to do it without removing the bumper and the side panels. I've no idea how people go through the wheel well as it's not assessable on my truck. Man it was a pain haha

 

Zip ties my friend.

 

Removing that bolt isn't all that difficult. You don't need to take the fender apart either as you can get to it from underneath. I just reached up and put my socket on it.

 

I honestly wouldn't worry about the clip back there. First time I took off my headlights, I literally broke both clips right off. I reinstalled them and the don't even budge.

I honestly don't think you need them.

 

Right that's what all the video show, but when I'm laying under the truck and look up there you can't see it. When I reach my hand up there I can feel some piece of sheet metal and cannot get to the bolt.

 

I had to disconnect the front of the splash guard in the wheel well (2 bolts I think), then kind of peel it back (use the tire to hold it), then you should be able to reach up there.

 

In pic I posted of headlight you can see the bolt bellow the blue tape .