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, use gloves or a clean cloth.
5. Refit the ring and bezel, reconnect the battery, and test both beams.

Good maintenance habits go a long way:

• Clean the glass regularly, mud and dust sap output quickly.
• Inspect the 3‑pin plug and earths on the radiator support for corrosion, clean and tighten as needed.
• If the switch or wiring runs hot, consider a relay harness upgrade to reduce voltage drop and protect the column switch.
• Check for moisture inside the lamp or housing, replace cracked lenses or perished boots.
• Aim the lights after any replacement using the vertical and horizontal adjusters, follow the service manual pattern to avoid dazzling others.

Done right, a fresh pair of sealed beams or quality H4 bulbs makes a vintage Jimny feel far newer at night, whether it’s commuting or picking its way up a rutted fire trail.

Popular questions about 1987 Suzuki Jimny headlights

What headlight type does a 1987 Suzuki Jimny use?
Most AU/NZ 1987 Jimnys run 7-inch round lamps. Many were sealed beams (H6024-style), while some trims or later replacements use H4 halogen housings with a 60/55W bulb. A quick look behind the lamp will tell you—sealed beams have a fixed glass unit, H4 setups have a removable bulb under a rubber boot.

How do you adjust the headlight aim on a 1987 Jimny?
With the vehicle on level ground, tyres at normal pressure and some fuel on board, park a few metres from a flat wall. Use the horizontal and vertical screws on the headlight bucket to align the low-beam cutoff just below and slightly left of the lamp centre marks. Follow the service manual pattern so you get good reach without glare.

Can you fit LED headlights to a 1987 Jimny?
Yes, but only with a complete LED headlamp assembly that meets local rules (e.g., ADR-compliant/E-marked). Simple LED “bulb swaps” in halogen housings often aren’t legal and can fail WoF/roadworthy checks due to poor beam control. If upgrading, choose a certified 7-inch LED unit, check clearance, and re-aim the lamps after fitting.