Cliff: Created page with "'''Gen 2 headlight motors''' are the second-generation pop-up headlight motors used in the Gen 2 headlight system on 1987 and 1988 Pontiac Fiero models. The Gen 2 motors are different from the earlier Gen 1 headlight motors used on 1984-1986 Fieros. == Overview == The Gen 2 headlight motors raise and lower the Fiero's pop-up headlight doors. They are controlled by the Headlight control module, which is used only on the 1987-1988 headlight system. Gen..."

2026-07-06T18:13:07Z

Created page with "'''Gen 2 headlight motors''' are the second-generation pop-up headlight motors used in the Gen 2 headlight system on 1987 and 1988 Pontiac Fiero models. The Gen 2 motors are different from the earlier Gen 1 headlight motors used on 1984-1986 Fieros. == Overview == The Gen 2 headlight motors raise and lower the Fiero's pop-up headlight doors. They are controlled by the Headlight control module, which is used only on the 1987-1988 headlight system. Gen..."

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'''Gen 2 headlight motors''' are the second-generation pop-up headlight motors used in the [[Gen 2 headlight system]] on 1987 and 1988 [[Pontiac Fiero]] models.

The Gen 2 motors are different from the earlier [[Gen 1 headlight motors]] used on 1984-1986 Fieros.

== Overview ==

The Gen 2 headlight motors raise and lower the Fiero's pop-up headlight doors. They are controlled by the [[Headlight control module]], which is used only on the 1987-1988 headlight system.

Gen 2 motors are generally considered simpler and more reliable than the earlier Gen 1 motors, but age-related failures are still common.

== Applies to ==

Gen 2 headlight motors apply to:

* [[1987 Pontiac Fiero]]
* [[1988 Pontiac Fiero]]

Earlier Fieros use [[Gen 1 headlight motors]] unless they have been converted to the later system.

== Major components ==

A Gen 2 headlight motor assembly includes:

* Electric motor
* Gear housing
* Internal gear
* Motor bushings
* Output shaft
* Manual adjustment knob
* Electrical connector
* Mounting points
* Linkage connection

== Common symptoms ==

Common Gen 2 headlight motor symptoms include:

* Motor runs but the headlight door does not move
* Headlight door does not open
* Headlight door does not close
* Headlight door moves slowly
* Headlight door stops partway
* Motor makes grinding or rattling noises
* One side works and the other does not
* Intermittent operation

== Common failures ==

Common failures include:

* Failed internal bushings
* Worn or damaged gear
* Poor connector contact
* Damaged wiring
* Motor wear
* Binding headlight door linkage
* Mechanical obstruction
* Weak battery voltage
* Failed or faulty [[Headlight control module]]

== Motor bushings ==

One common Gen 2 failure is deterioration of the internal motor bushings. When the bushings fail, the motor may run but fail to move the headlight door correctly.

This can cause noise, slipping, partial movement, or no movement even though the motor itself is turning.

Related topics:

* [[Headlight motor repair]]
* [[Headlight motor rebuild]]
* [[Headlight motor parts]]

== Diagnosis ==

Diagnosis should first determine whether the problem is mechanical, motor-related, wiring-related, or module-related.

Basic checks include:

# Confirm the car uses the Gen 2 system.
# Check whether the problem affects one side or both sides.
# Check for mechanical binding in the headlight door and linkage.
# Check the motor connector.
# Check power and ground at the motor.
# Check the [[Headlight control module]] if both motors are affected or if motor control is abnormal.
# Inspect the motor internals if the motor runs but the door does not move.

== Repair and rebuilding ==

Many Gen 2 headlight motor problems can be repaired by rebuilding the motor with replacement internal parts.

Common repairs include replacing bushings, inspecting or replacing the gear, cleaning the housing, checking the output shaft, and verifying that the linkage moves freely.

Related topics:

* [[Headlight motor repair]]
* [[Headlight motor rebuild]]
* [[Headlight motor parts]]
* [[Headlight door binding]]

== Gen 1 comparison ==

Gen 2 motors are not the same as Gen 1 motors.

The 1984-1986 Gen 1 system uses earlier motors and relays. The 1987-1988 Gen 2 system uses later motors and the [[Headlight control module]].

Related topics:

* [[Gen 1 headlight motors]]
* [[Gen 1 headlight system]]
* [[Gen 2 headlight system]]
* [[Headlight control module]]

== Notes ==

Always identify the headlight system before ordering parts or following a repair guide. Some Fieros may have been converted from Gen 1 to Gen 2.

If the motor runs but the headlight door does not move, inspect the internal bushings and gear before assuming the control module is bad.

== See also ==

* [[Headlights]]
* [[Gen 2 headlight system]]
* [[Headlight control module]]
* [[Headlight motor problems]]
* [[Headlight motor repair]]
* [[Electrical system]]
* [[Wiring diagrams]]
* [[Connector pinouts]]

[[Category:Fieropedia]]
[[Category:Headlights]]
[[Category:Electrical system]]
[[Category:Diagnostics]]

Gen 2 headlight motors - Revision history