Upgrading the headlights on a late-model Ram truck is one of the most satisfying visual and functional improvements you can make, and in this guide we walk through the complete AlphaRex Ram 1500 headlight installation for 2019 and up trucks. We tested and installed a set of AlphaRex projector headlights on a 2019-2021 Ram 1500, and below we break down every step exactly as the official install shows it, from disconnecting the battery to aiming the finished beams. Whether you are a first-time installer or a seasoned DIYer, this walkthrough will help you get the job done right.

Why We Chose AlphaRex Headlights for the Ram 1500

AlphaRex specializes in designing and producing superior and uniquely stylish aftermarket automotive performance lighting with unrivaled innovative technology. For the 2019 and up Ram 1500, these projector headlights deliver a dramatic new front-end appearance along with improved night driving. If you want to see the full lineup of options available for this platform, the Ram 1500 NOVA-Series Headlight Collection is a great place to start browsing styles and finishes. The set we installed comes ready to bolt onto the truck with the factory lower bracket transferred over, and it includes a daytime running light harness that we wire directly to the battery. One popular option that many Ram owners gravitate toward is the NOVA-Series Jet Black Projector Headlights, which pair a blacked-out housing with the crisp projector output. If you are still weighing your lighting choices across the Ram lineup, the Ram Lighting Upgrade Hub is a helpful resource for comparing products before you commit.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting the install, we prepared the tools shown at the beginning of the video. You will primarily need 8mm and 10mm sockets along with a trim tool for the plastic clips. Whenever working on your vehicle, always start by disconnecting the negative battery terminal. This is the single most important safety step, and it protects both you and the truck’s electrical system while you handle connectors and wiring during the install. This guide is specific to 2019 and up Ram 1500 trucks receiving AlphaRex headlights. If your goals include sequential turn-signal behavior or a broader lighting refresh, our Sequential LED Upgrade Overview covers additional considerations for this generation of Ram.

Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Disconnect the Battery and Remove the Lower Trim Panel

With the negative battery terminal disconnected, we moved to the front lower trim. Remove the two 8mm screws located in the wheel well that hold the front lower trim panel to the vehicle. This gives you the initial access needed to begin working your way toward the fender liner and the factory headlight mounting points.

Step 2: Remove the Fender Liner

Next, remove the three 8mm screws which hold the fender liner to the front fender, then gently pull it away from the fender. Taking your time here prevents cracking the plastic. Behind the lower trim panel you will also find a 10mm bolt to remove. Push down on the bracket behind the trim piece and carefully remove it from the vehicle, then set it aside for later. Repeat this process for the other side of the truck.

Step 3: Remove the Top Plastic Cover

Now move to the top plastic cover. Remove the 12 plastic clips securing it in place, starting from one side and working your way across. Once all the clips are out, lift the cover off the vehicle and set it aside for later. Keeping these clips organized makes reassembly much easier at the end of the job.

Step 4: Remove the Grille Assembly

With the top cover out of the way, remove the eight 10mm bolts and two plastic clips located at the top of the grille. Pulling gently toward you, remove the top part of the grille and set it aside for later. Then remove the three 10mm bolts at the bottom of each side of the grille, followed by the four 10mm bolts attaching the top of the grille to the vehicle. Finally, lift the two plastic connector arms over the bosses to release the grille, then remove it from the vehicle and set it aside.

Step 5: Remove the Factory Headlight

At the top of the headlight, remove the 10mm bolt and plastic clip. Then remove the 10mm bolt located on the side of the headlight. Now pull the headlight away from the vehicle and remove the connector at the bottom of the light and the one at the back corner. Once both connectors are free, you can remove the headlight from the vehicle completely.

Step 6: Transfer the Lower Bracket

This is a key step that is easy to overlook. Remove the lower bracket from the factory headlight and install it onto your new AlphaRex headlight as shown in the video. This factory bracket is required for the new light to mount securely, so make sure it is properly seated before you position the AlphaRex housing on the truck.

Step 7: Wire the DRL Harness

To attach the daytime running light harness, go to your fuse box and locate fuse F38, then add it to the fuse tap. The power and ground for the DRL harness need to be connected to the battery respectively. Once the harness is powered, run the daytime running light harness to the location of both headlights so each side has its connection ready. This is the step that brings the AlphaRex DRL styling to life.

Step 8: Install the AlphaRex Headlight

With the harness routed, attach the connectors to the AlphaRex headlight and complete the installation by securing the headlight to the vehicle. Then repeat the previous steps for the opposite side headlight, following the same removal and installation instructions. Working methodically on one side and then mirroring the process on the other keeps everything consistent.

Step 9: Reinstall the Trim and Grille

Follow the previous instructions in reverse to reinstall your factory trim and grille. Reattach the grille, reinstall the top plastic cover with its 12 clips, and secure the fender liners and lower trim panels. Take your time reseating each clip and bolt so the front end goes back together cleanly with no rattles or gaps.

Step 10: Test All Functions

Before you consider the job finished, test the functions of your AlphaRex headlights to ensure everything works properly. Check low beams, high beams, and the daytime running lights on both sides. Confirming all functions before final aiming means you can catch any wiring issue while the panels are still accessible.

Step 11: Aim the Headlights

Once everything has been tested, aim your AlphaRex headlights by parking 25 feet from a wall and leveling the headlight beams evenly. Turn the adjuster clockwise to lower the light and counterclockwise to raise it. Getting the beams balanced side to side ensures you have proper visibility without blinding oncoming traffic. Now you are ready to use and enjoy your AlphaRex headlights, along with the stylish new look and improved night driving of your 2019 and up Ram 1500.

Final Thoughts on the Install

From start to finish, this is a straightforward install that most DIYers can complete with basic hand tools and a bit of patience. The trickiest parts are staying organized with all the plastic clips and grille hardware, and making sure the DRL harness is wired correctly to the battery through the F38 fuse tap. Transferring the factory lower bracket to the new housing is the detail that ties the whole install together, and it keeps the new headlights mounted just like the factory units. Once you have both sides installed, tested, and aimed, the transformation on the front of the Ram 1500 is well worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools are needed before starting the AlphaRex Ram 1500 headlight installation?

The video instructs viewers to prepare the required tools shown at the start of the install and to always disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning work on the vehicle.

What panels must be removed to access the factory headlights?

Installers need to remove the front lower trim panel, fender liner, top plastic cover with its plastic clips, and the grille assembly before the factory headlight bolts and connectors can be accessed.

How is the daytime running light harness powered?

The DRL harness is connected by locating fuse F38 in the fuse box and adding a fuse tap, with power and ground wires connected to the battery respectively before routing the harness to each headlight.

How do you aim the new AlphaRex headlights after installation?

Park the vehicle 25 feet from a wall and level the headlight beams evenly, turning the adjuster clockwise to lower the beam and counterclockwise to raise it.

What should be done after installing both headlights?

Reinstall the factory trim and grille following the removal steps in reverse, then test all headlight functions to confirm proper operation before aiming the beams.