Parts for your 1987 Suzuki Jimny-Headlights

1987 Suzuki Jimny headlights — purpose, maintenance and replacement

Headlights are absolutely fitted to the 1987 Suzuki Jimny. Factory literature such as the Suzuki SJ413/Samurai Service Manual (Pub. No. 99500-83010-01E) and the period parts catalogue list the headlamp units as standard equipment, and road-legality frameworks like Australia’s ADR 13/00 and ADR 46/00 and New Zealand’s WoF/VIRM lighting rules require compliant headlamps on vehicles of this era. On most AU/NZ Jimnys, they’re the classic round 7-inch lamps—often sealed-beam units—with some variants using H4 halogen replaceable-bulb housings.

On a rugged little 4x4 like a 1987 Jimny, the headlight’s job is simple but crucial: throw reliable, well-shaped light down the road or track so the driver can see and be seen, without blinding oncoming traffic. Age, vibration and moisture can make them dim or patchy, so a quick check as part of regular servicing keeps night driving safe and roadworthy inspectors happy.

Owners will typically find two setups:

• Sealed-beam 7-inch round units (H6024 or equivalent) replaced as a complete lamp.
• H4 housings with a replaceable 60/55W halogen bulb (P43t base).

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools:

1. Switch off and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the headlight bezel (usually two screws) and the retaining ring (three screws). Support the lamp as you go.
3. Unplug the 3‑pin connector. For H4 units, pull back the rubber boot and release the spring clip to remove the bulb.
4. Install the new sealed beam or halogen bulb. Avoid touching glass