There’s a unique bond you form with an older vehicle. For me, it was a battle-scarred but beloved ’92 Jeep Cherokee. Every creak and groan told a story. But as the years rolled on, its eyes grew dim. The original sealed-beam headlights, once beacons in the night, had become hazy, yellowed cataracts that threw a feeble, scattered light onto the road. Night drives, especially on winding country roads, turned from enjoyable cruises into white-knuckle ordeals. I tried every restoration kit on the market—sanding, polishing, sealing—but it was like trying to revive a dead battery. The plastic was too far gone. This isn’t just an aesthetic issue; it’s a critical safety failure. Diminished visibility puts you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road at risk. When you can no longer trust your lights to cut through the darkness, it’s not just time for an upgrade; it’s an absolute necessity.
- Direct Fit, OE Replacement Headlight Set
- Kit Includes: (1) Passenger Side Headlight; (1) Driver Side Headlight
Before You Illuminate: A Buyer’s Guide to Headlight Assemblies
A headlight assembly is more than just a bulb and a lens; it’s a precision-engineered component critical to your vehicle’s safety and appearance. It’s the solution for foggy, cracked, or simply outdated factory lights that no longer perform their essential function. Upgrading can dramatically improve your nighttime visibility, giving you a wider, brighter, and more focused beam of light. Aesthetically, a new set of crystal-clear assemblies can take years off your vehicle’s appearance, restoring that crisp, showroom look. It’s a functional and cosmetic refresh in one package.
The ideal customer for a product like the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set is a hands-on owner of an older vehicle with sealed-beam headlights or someone looking for a cost-effective alternative to exorbitant OEM replacements. If your factory housings are damaged beyond repair or you’re undertaking a restoration project, this type of kit is designed for you. However, it might not be suitable for those who own modern vehicles with complex, model-specific headlight designs, or for individuals who expect a flawless, out-of-the-box fit without any potential need for minor adjustments. For those simply wanting brighter light without replacing the entire housing, a simple bulb upgrade might be a more appropriate first step.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Vehicle Compatibility & Fitment: This is the most critical factor. While this TRQ set boasts wide compatibility, “direct fit” can be subjective in the aftermarket world. Always double-check your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model against the manufacturer’s list. Look at the mounting points and shape to ensure it matches your factory setup precisely to avoid frustrating installation issues.
- Light Source & Performance: This set is designed for halogen bulbs, the traditional standard. Understand the beam pattern—is it a crisp, clean cutoff or does it scatter light? Consider if you plan to stick with halogen or upgrade to LED or HID bulbs, as the reflector housing’s design will significantly impact the performance and legality of such upgrades.
- Materials & Durability: The lens material—in this case, glass—is a key feature, offering superior clarity and scratch resistance compared to the polycarbonate plastic found on many modern cars. However, the quality of the housing plastic and, most importantly, the sealant used to bond the lens to the housing, determines its long-term resistance to moisture and condensation.
- Sealing & Weatherproofing: Water intrusion is the number one killer of aftermarket headlights. A poor seal leads to condensation, which reduces light output, corrodes internal components, and can short out bulbs. Look for claims of waterproof or weather-resistant designs, but be prepared to inspect the seals upon arrival and potentially add a bead of silicone for peace of mind.
Keeping these factors in mind, the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set presents an interesting value proposition on paper. You can explore its detailed specifications and extensive compatibility list here.
While the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set is an excellent choice for many classic applications, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best LED Headlight Assemblies for Ultimate Nighttime Visibility
- Compatible With: 03-06 Avalanche 1500 / 03-06 Avalanche 2500 / 03-06 SIlverado 1500 / 03-06 SIlverado 1500 HD / 03-06 SIlverado 2500 HD / 03-06 SIlverado 3500 / 03-04 Silverado 2500 / 07 SIlverado...
- 【Compatible With】2007-2013 Silverado 1500 / 2007-2014 Silverado 2500 HD, 3500; Does NOT Fit 2007 (Old Body) Classic Models; Fits Models with Halogen Headlights Only
- 【VEHICLE COMPATIBILITY】Headlights Assembly Compatible with 07-13 Chevy Silverado 1500, 12-14 Chevy Silverado 2500, 07-14 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD, 2007 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Classic, 12-13 Chevy...
First Impressions: A Classic Design with Modern Clarity
Unboxing the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set felt like stepping back in time, but with a modern twist. The packaging was straightforward and secure, with each assembly individually wrapped to prevent scuffs during transit. The immediate standout feature was the lens. Unlike the hazy, yellowed plastic I was replacing, these were made of genuine, crystal-clear glass. The heft and coolness of the glass lens immediately gave an impression of quality and durability that modern polycarbonate housings often lack. The internal chrome reflector was mirror-bright, promising to capture and project every possible lumen from the bulb. The overall construction felt solid, though a close inspection of the sealant around the lens-to-housing seam revealed it was neatly applied, but perhaps not as thick as one might find on a premium OEM unit. This set is designed as a direct OE replacement for the ubiquitous H6054 rectangular sealed beam, and holding it up to the old unit, the mounting points and dimensions appeared to be a perfect match, promising a straightforward installation—a promise we were eager to put to the test.
What We Like
- Excellent value compared to OEM replacement costs
- Clear glass lens provides superior optical clarity and scratch resistance
- Bright chrome housing dramatically improves light reflection
- Extensive compatibility with a wide range of older vehicles
What We Didn’t Like
- Inconsistent quality control regarding weather sealing, leading to condensation
- Fitment can be problematic on some vehicles, requiring modification
Putting TRQ to the Test: A Deep Dive into Performance
An affordable price and a pretty face out of the box are one thing, but real-world performance is what truly matters. We installed the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set on our test vehicle, a 1990s-era GMC pickup, to evaluate it across the three most critical areas: ease of installation and fitment, optical quality and light output on the road, and its long-term durability against the elements. The results were a mixed bag, revealing both brilliant highs and concerning lows that any potential buyer needs to be aware of.
Installation & Fitment: The “Direct Fit” Dilemma
The term “direct fit” is the holy grail for any DIY mechanic, promising a hassle-free swap with no drilling, cutting, or swearing required. With the TRQ assemblies, our experience fell somewhere in the middle of that spectrum. For our GMC test truck, the process was reasonably smooth. The main housing slid into the headlight bucket perfectly, and the three main mounting points aligned with the factory holes. The retaining ring fit snugly over the new glass lens, securing the unit in place. This mirrors the experience of many users who report a perfect fit and easy installation, with one happy customer noting, “They fit perfectly and all the body gaps look really nice. No complaints.”
However, the user forums and reviews are filled with tales that paint a different picture, highlighting a significant inconsistency in manufacturing tolerances. One user with a 2008 Tacoma lamented that the installation was “significantly more difficult than it should have been,” citing that connection points for the bumper, trim, and grill were all completely off. Another noted that while the main housing fit, getting the turn signal piece to connect was a struggle. This tells us that while the core H6054 dimensions are correct, the ancillary mounting tabs and plastic molds can vary. Our expert advice is to approach the installation with patience. Expect that you may need to slightly enlarge a mounting hole or finesse a plastic tab to achieve perfect alignment. For the price, this is a common trade-off, but it’s one that can turn a 30-minute job into a two-hour project if you’re unprepared.
Optical Quality & Light Output: A Brighter Path Forward
Once installed and aimed, the difference in light output was, quite literally, night and day. The combination of the perfectly clear glass lens and the pristine chrome reflector housing makes an incredible difference. We used standard Sylvania H4 halogen bulbs, and the beam pattern was a significant improvement over the old, tired sealed beams. The light was brighter, whiter, and cast much further down the road, with a reasonably sharp cutoff that prevents blinding oncoming traffic. The road shoulders were better illuminated, increasing our confidence and ability to spot potential hazards.
It’s worth noting that the internal reflector design is crucial. We did observe some minor “choppiness” in the beam pattern, as one user pointed out. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it lacks the perfectly uniform beam you’d get from a high-end projector headlight. This housing truly shines, however, for those looking to modify. As one enthusiast mentioned, they purchased these specifically to “retrofit some LED projectors,” and the results were “fantastic.” The clear glass lens is ideal for this, as it won’t obstruct the clean output from a projector. Whether you stick with powerful halogens or go full-custom with an LED or HID retrofit, these TRQ housings provide a brilliant and affordable foundation for massively improved visibility.
Durability & Weather Sealing: The Achilles’ Heel
This is where our review must take a serious, cautionary turn. While our initial installation held up through a car wash and a light drizzle, the sheer volume of user complaints regarding moisture intrusion is impossible to ignore and points to a major quality control lottery. For every user like the one in Alaska who reported their lights survived weeks of rain with “no leaks or problems,” there are several others with nightmare stories. “Drivers side is a rainforest,” one user succinctly put it. Another stated, “Installed these headlights 2 days ago. It rained last night, now both headlights have condensation in them.”
This is the single greatest risk when purchasing the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set. The sealant used to bond the glass lens to the rear housing is the point of failure. When it fails, humid air gets in, and as the headlight cools, that moisture condenses on the inside of the lens, creating a foggy, unsightly mess that severely compromises light output and can lead to premature bulb failure or electrical shorts. Based on our expert analysis and the weight of user feedback, we strongly recommend taking a preemptive step. Before installing these headlights, purchase a tube of clear, waterproof silicone sealant and apply a generous, even bead around the entire seam where the lens meets the housing. It’s an extra 15-minute step that can save you from the massive headache of having to remove and replace a waterlogged headlight just weeks or months after your initial installation. While you shouldn’t have to finish the manufacturing process yourself, it’s a realistic precaution for a product at this price point.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the broad spectrum of feedback on the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set reveals a clear divide between satisfaction and frustration. On the positive side, many users are thrilled with the cosmetic upgrade and value proposition. One happy customer transformed their 2013 Acura RDX, stating, “I immediately started getting compliments. People actually thought I purchased a new car.” Another praised them as a great alternative to shockingly expensive OEM parts, a sentiment we wholeheartedly agree with. These reviews often highlight the impressive looks and the sheer affordability of the set.
On the other hand, the negative feedback is consistent and centers on two major flaws: fitment and sealing. The most alarming and frequent complaint is water intrusion. One user reported that in “less than three months during very little to no rain both lights were full of moisture.” Another received a unit that was literally falling apart in the box, with “the lens and clips…coming apart.” These severe quality control issues are compounded by reports of non-existent customer service, making warranty claims difficult. This feedback is critical because it frames the purchase not as a sure thing, but as a calculated risk where you might get a perfect set or one that requires immediate modification or return.
How Does the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set Compare to Alternatives?
While this TRQ set fills a specific niche for older vehicles, it’s helpful to see how it compares to other lighting solutions on the market. Depending on your vehicle and goals, one of these alternatives might be a more suitable choice.
1. SYLVANIA SilverStar 3157 DRL Mini Bulb
- Lights Dim Over Time, Replace In Pairs: Your lights are a pair, one is never turned on without the other. If one bulb burns out, the other isn't far behind. Replace your 3157 SilverStar Mini bulbs in...
- Whiter Light: The Sylvania High Performance mini bulb delivers a whiter light by using a specially designed filament and a propriety gas mixture, as well as a lamp coating that shifts the color...
This SYLVANIA product is not a headlight assembly but rather a high-performance replacement bulb. This is a crucial distinction. If your vehicle’s headlight housings are still in good condition—clear, uncracked, and properly sealed—but you find the light output lacking, a bulb upgrade like the SilverStar is your best first step. It’s far cheaper and easier than replacing the entire assembly. However, if your lenses are foggy, yellowed, or leaking, no bulb in the world can fix that. The SYLVANIA bulb is an upgrade component, whereas the TRQ set is a complete replacement solution for failed or aged housings.
2. Auto Dynasty Halogen Headlights Chevy Silverado 2007-2014
- Vehicle Compatibility - Headlight assembly compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013. NOTE: Fits models with halogen headlights Only, does NOT fit classic and old body...
- Vehicle Compatibility - Headlight assembly compatible with Chevy Silverado 2500HD / 3500 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 . NOTE: Fits models with halogen headlights Only, does NOT fit classic...
The Auto Dynasty assembly highlights the difference between a “universal” and a “vehicle-specific” design. This product is engineered to fit a narrow range of Chevy Silverado models (2007-2014) perfectly. It accounts for every specific mounting tab, body line, and wiring harness unique to that truck. The TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set, being a universal H6054 replacement, is designed for a much older generation of vehicles that used standardized headlight sizes. If you own a modern vehicle like this Silverado, the Auto Dynasty assembly is the correct choice; the TRQ set simply will not fit.
3. AUTOSAVER88 Headlights Chrome Clear Lens 1994-2001 Dodge Ram
- Vehicle compatibility: headlights assembly compatible with 1994-2001 dodge ram 1500, 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 dodge ram 2500 3500; high beam/low beam bulb type: 9007(HB5); bulbs...
- Waterproof: fully sealed with solid silicon & designed with one-way vents to prevent moisture from being trapped inside the housing, no corrosion or moisture worries in sorts of weather conditions
Similar to the Auto Dynasty option, this AUTOSAVER88 set is a direct competitor for a specific vehicle application—in this case, the classic 2nd Generation Dodge Ram. This era of truck used a composite headlight design, not the older sealed-beam style the TRQ set replaces. This is an important lesson in vehicle compatibility. For a ’98 Ram owner, this AUTOSAVER88 set is a direct replacement that includes the corner lights for a complete front-end refresh. The TRQ product would be incompatible. This comparison underscores the absolute necessity of using your vehicle’s year, make, and model to find the correct assembly before purchasing.
Final Verdict: A Conditional Recommendation
So, should you buy the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set? Our answer is a qualified “yes,” but only for the right type of owner. If you are a budget-conscious DIYer restoring an older vehicle with H6054 sealed-beam headlights, and you are willing to potentially do a little extra work to ensure a perfect seal, then this kit offers phenomenal value. It can instantly refresh your vehicle’s appearance and significantly improve nighttime visibility for a fraction of the cost of OEM parts. The clear glass lenses are a fantastic feature that promises long-lasting clarity.
However, if you are looking for a guaranteed, plug-and-play solution with zero chance of future issues, you may want to look at more premium brands. The widespread reports of condensation and inconsistent fitment are significant risks. You are essentially gambling on quality control. For the handy individual who isn’t afraid to spend 15 minutes with a tube of silicone to guarantee a waterproof seal, this is a smart buy. For everyone else, the potential for waterlogged headlights might not be worth the savings.
If you’ve decided the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set is the right fit for your project and your skillset, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API