Possible to convert 03 lights to 01?

[xLusi0n]

Is it possible to convert the non pop up lights to flip up? I like the flip up lights on the 01 but I'd perfer to buy a brand new car...unless i found a really clean 01. Thanks and sorry if this is a retarded question, im a newbie.

 

[Ojas]

Is it possible to convert the non pop up lights to flip up? I like the flip up lights on the 01 but I'd perfer to buy a brand new car...unless i found a really clean 01. Thanks and sorry if this is a retarded question, im a newbie.

As it's been said before (in reference to going the other way: 91-01 to 02+), anything's possible with enough money.

My initial thought is that you should look for a clean 01. It seems like spending time looking/waiting for one would be a better than spending thousands to cut up a nice new NSX to get the old look. I'm sure they are out there and would be a better option for you.

Also, many folks that did not initially like the new 02+ look (myself included) would agree that it's growing on them and looks very nice in person.

 

[NSXG35]

If you to do it right you will have to change out the front bumper, headlights and hood. I am in the process of changing my Red 97 to the 02 headlights and we actually have to cut out the rear bracket behind the headlight to make the new ones fit. I am assuming you will have to fabricate some small supports to hold the pop ups in the bigger space your headlights currently occupy. As for cost I would be willing to bet you could get it done for free. Just find someone who has a pre-02 car and offer to swap the necessary parts as long as they pay the labor to have the pop headlights installed in your car. The other option is to buy all the parts necessary for the conversion and then keep your originals so when you sell your car in the future you put it back to it's factory setup. BTW if you decide to buy parts I can make you a package deal on a 97 Red front bumper, headlights, and hood.

 

[KANE]

I have converted a 1992 to 2002 headlights. The old style headlights will bolt in to a 2002 you do not have to fabricate any thing. In each headlight bucket there is a bolt covering a hole where the old style headlight bracket will bolt up. The other holes used by the 2002 headlights are the same as a 1991-2001. You can also reuse the 2002 bumper reinforcement beam, you just need to get the early style attachment plates. If you have anymore questions I can be reached at
kane @nsxpro.com

 

[xLusi0n]

wow, so basically, if i just find someone to swap it for me, it can be done cleanly without cutting up such a precious car awesome...from the sound of things, it wont be too hard to find someone to swap with me. will the front bumper need to be swapped? or just hood and healgihts? I planned to get a different hood anyway (similar to the dali racing hood)...hmm...thanks guys for all your help...its easier for me to get financed for a new NSX than a used one, thats why i want to get a 03...also, it just feels better to be the first owner

 

[KANE]

Yes all 3 sections of the front bumper must be changed

 

[NSXG35]

Kane I would love to see some pics of your new car and get some input from you about any problems you ran into doing the conversion. I am waiting on a Margahills front bumper that I expect to get by this Friday then we are going to start the project next week.

 

[tabasco]

xLusi0n

What color is your '03

 

[Biaggi]

Don't forget that you'll need to add the button/switch on the dash that will pop up the headlights when the lights are off.
BUT,I would highly consider getting a 2001 and avoid the hassle.

Plus financing on any car is easy depending on your credit history... Another plus is that the loan will be less for a 2001 then 2002.....

A lot of banks are willing to loan $$$ now-a-days. I've read several posts here that use Peoplefirst.com and are easily approved. so call around (credit unions and such... even your bank that does your mortgage) Most car insurance companies finance too at great rates, since you already are an established customer with them....

Good luck!

 

[bayareansx1999]

why dont you buy the 02 and trade with someone with older flip lights ...

 

[Zishan]

I'll swap, I'll swap!!!! Me wants NEW NSX front!!!!

 

[mlambert890]

I'd strongly suggest just getting the 01. There's no difference in difficulty financing the 01 vs 03. If anything, the used car will be easier since it's cheaper. Add in the risk of hacking up a financed car, and all signs point to the 01.

 

[KANE]

Although you can change a 2002 to 2001 headlights with ABSOLUTELY NO HACKING, I agree that it makes much more sense to buy a 2001.

 

[nsx_parts]

If you ever want to sell the 2003 later on you will have a hard time explaining the front of the car was swapped out due to personal preferences.

I think your resale value would drop a lot!

If you do it I will buy the old parts.

 

[xLusi0n]

hmm...thanks for all your input...ill take all this in to consideration when I look around. thanks again.