If you own a 2018, 2019, or 2020 Ford F-150, you already know the stock headlights leave something to be desired. Fortunately, upgrading to the Morimoto XB LED headlights is one of the best visual and functional upgrades you can make. In fact, the entire installation is plug and play, meaning no cutting or splicing is required. David from That Dude in Blue recently stopped by The Retrofit Source to install a set on his 2019 F-150. He filmed the whole process, and the results speak for themselves. Watch the full walkthrough below to see every step in action.
Why Upgrade Your 2018+ F-150 Headlights?
The 2018 to 2020 Ford F-150 is an incredibly popular truck. However, many owners feel that the factory headlights fall short. Specifically, the base halogen headlights produce a warm, yellowish beam pattern. As a result, nighttime visibility suffers on dark roads and highways. Moreover, the OEM reflector housings simply cannot match the output of a properly engineered LED assembly.
Additionally, the stock halogen headlights give the front end a dated appearance. For example, compared to the higher trim LED headlights found on Platinum and Limited models, the base headlights look noticeably dim and uninspired. Therefore, many F-150 owners begin searching for aftermarket alternatives almost immediately after purchase.
Furthermore, upgrading your headlights is not just about aesthetics. Better lighting means improved safety for you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Consequently, the Morimoto XB LED headlights address both form and function in a single package. They deliver a wider, brighter beam pattern while also transforming the entire look of the truck. In addition, these headlights are designed as a complete assembly replacement, so you are not trying to shoehorn LED bulbs into a housing that was never designed for them.
On the other hand, some owners consider simply swapping in LED bulbs to their existing housings. While that approach is cheaper, it often results in poor beam patterns and scattered light. Specifically, the reflector geometry in halogen housings is not optimized for LED light sources. Therefore, a purpose-built LED headlight assembly like the Morimoto XB is the superior choice for real performance gains.
What Makes the Morimoto XB LED Headlights Special?
Morimoto has earned a reputation as one of the best LED headlight brands in the automotive aftermarket. Specifically, the Gen 2 XB LED headlights for the 2018 to 2020 F-150 represent a significant step forward in design and performance. First, the build quality is immediately apparent when you take them out of the box. The housings are solid, well-sealed, and feature a sleek smoked or chrome finish depending on the version you choose.
Moreover, these headlights are DOT approved, which is an important distinction. Many aftermarket headlights on the market fail to meet federal safety standards. Consequently, they can produce dangerous glare for oncoming drivers. In contrast, the Morimoto XB LEDs deliver a properly focused beam pattern that meets all DOT requirements. As a result, you get excellent output without blinding other motorists.
Additionally, the optics in the Gen 2 version have been refined for even better performance than the original release. The projector-style low beams produce a sharp cutoff line with impressive throw distance. Furthermore, the high beams flood the road with bright, white light that makes nighttime driving significantly more comfortable.
The aesthetic details also set these headlights apart. For example, the integrated LED daytime running lights create a distinctive signature that is visible from a distance. In addition, the turn signals can be configured as sequential or solid, giving you the ability to customize the look to your preference. Meanwhile, the overall design maintains a factory-quality appearance that looks like it belongs on the truck.
Perhaps most importantly, Morimoto backs these headlights with an industry-leading 5-year warranty. Therefore, you can install them with confidence knowing you are covered if anything goes wrong. For more details on how these compare to other options, check out our XB LED vs XB Hybrid comparison guide.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
One of the biggest concerns with aftermarket headlight upgrades is installation difficulty. Fortunately, the Morimoto XB LED headlights for the F-150 are designed for a straightforward, bolt-on installation. As David demonstrates in the video, the entire process takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour. Additionally, you do not need any specialized tools. A basic socket set, a trim removal tool, and some patience are all you need.
Removing the Front Bumper
First, you need to remove the front bumper cover to access the headlight assemblies. Specifically, start by opening the hood and locating the push clips along the top edge of the bumper. Use a trim removal tool to pop these clips out carefully. Next, look underneath the bumper for additional fasteners. There are typically several bolts and clips along the bottom edge that need to come out.
Furthermore, you will find bolts in the wheel well area where the bumper meets the fender liner. Remove these on both sides. Once all the fasteners are out, the bumper cover will pull forward and off the truck. However, it is helpful to have a second person assist you during this step. The bumper is not extremely heavy, but it is wide and awkward to handle alone. Set the bumper on a soft surface like a moving blanket to avoid scratching it.
Removing the Grill
Next, the grill needs to come off. Fortunately, this step is simple. There are several clips along the top and sides that hold the grill in place. Additionally, you may find a few bolts depending on your specific trim level. Carefully release each clip and pull the grill forward. As a result, you will now have full access to the headlight mounting points.
Removing the OEM Headlights
With the bumper and grill removed, the factory headlights are now fully accessible. Specifically, each headlight is held in place by a few bolts and a wiring connector. First, disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the release tab and pulling it free. Then, remove the mounting bolts using the appropriate socket. Finally, slide the headlight assembly out of the truck.
Moreover, this is a great time to compare your stock headlights side by side with the new Morimoto units. The difference in build quality and design is immediately obvious. In fact, David mentions in the video how much more substantial the Morimoto housings feel compared to the OEM assemblies.
Wiring the DRL Harness
Before installing the new headlights, you need to connect the included DRL harness. This harness enables the daytime running light function on the Morimoto XB LEDs. Fortunately, the harness is designed to be completely plug and play. Therefore, no wire cutting or splicing is necessary.
Specifically, the harness connects to the existing wiring at the headlight connector. Additionally, there is a fuse tap that ties into the fuse box to power the DRL circuit. The included instructions clearly identify which fuse slot to use. As a result, this step is simple even for beginners. Route the harness neatly and secure it with zip ties to prevent any rattling or interference with other components.
Installing the New Headlights and Testing
Now comes the rewarding part. Slide the new Morimoto XB LED headlight into the mounting position. First, connect the electrical connector to the headlight. Then, reinstall the mounting bolts and tighten them securely. Furthermore, make sure the headlight sits flush against the body of the truck.
Before reassembling the bumper and grill, test all the lighting functions. Specifically, check the low beams, high beams, turn signals, and daytime running lights. In addition, verify that the sequential turn signal function works if you have that feature enabled. Consequently, catching any issues now saves you from having to remove everything again later. For alignment and adjustment details, refer to our headlight adjuster guide.
Once everything checks out, reassemble the grill and bumper in reverse order. Specifically, reinstall the grill first, followed by the bumper cover. Make sure all clips seat fully and all bolts are tightened properly. Finally, give everything one more visual inspection to confirm a clean, flush fitment.
Sequential Turn Signals and DRL Options
One of the standout features of the Morimoto XB LED headlights is the sequential turn signal capability. Specifically, when you activate your turn signal, the amber LEDs sweep from the inside of the headlight to the outside in a smooth, sequential animation. As a result, the visual effect is modern and eye-catching.
However, not everyone prefers the sequential look. Therefore, Morimoto includes the option to switch between sequential and solid turn signal modes. Specifically, there is a simple selector that allows you to choose your preferred style. Consequently, if you want a more traditional solid blink pattern, that option is available. Moreover, you can change your mind and switch modes at any time without any rewiring.
In addition to the turn signals, the DRL function is another important feature. The daytime running lights activate automatically when the truck is running. Furthermore, the DRL signature creates a distinctive look that sets your F-150 apart from every other truck on the road. The bright white LED strip is visible even in direct sunlight, which adds a safety benefit as well.
Specifically, the DRL harness included with the headlights uses a fuse tap to power this circuit. As mentioned earlier, installation requires no splicing. Therefore, the entire system can be easily reverted to stock if needed. This plug-and-play design is one of the many reasons the Morimoto XB platform remains so popular among truck owners.
Complete the Look: Matching Fog Lights and Accessories
While the headlights alone make a dramatic difference, you can take your F-150’s lighting to the next level with matching accessories. First, consider adding the Morimoto XB Evo fog lights for a cohesive front-end appearance. These fog lights share the same LED technology and color temperature as the XB headlights. As a result, the entire front lighting system produces a uniform, bright white output.
Alternatively, the Morimoto XB LED fog lights offer another excellent option. Both fog light choices are designed to bolt directly into the factory fog light location. Therefore, installation is straightforward and requires no modifications. Moreover, matching fog lights eliminate the common problem of mismatched color temperatures between your headlights and fog lights.
Additionally, the Morimoto XB LED side mirror lights replace the factory turn signal indicators on your side mirrors. These add sequential or solid turn signal capability to your mirrors, creating a seamless visual connection with your headlights. In addition, they improve visibility for other drivers when you signal a lane change.
For the ultimate front-end transformation, the Morimoto XBG DRL grille integrates LED daytime running lights directly into a replacement grill. Consequently, your truck gains an entirely custom appearance that turns heads everywhere you go. Furthermore, the XBG grille pairs perfectly with the XB LED headlights for a factory-integrated look.
You can browse the full selection of headlight assemblies to explore options for other vehicles as well.
Real-World Results and Final Thoughts
After completing the installation, David took his F-150 out for a nighttime drive to test the real-world performance. The difference was immediately noticeable. Specifically, the Morimoto XB LED headlights produced a dramatically wider and brighter beam pattern compared to the factory units. Furthermore, the sharp cutoff line on the low beams meant excellent forward illumination without blinding oncoming traffic.
Moreover, the high beams provided impressive throw distance for highway driving and unlit rural roads. As a result, David was able to see farther down the road and react to obstacles sooner. In addition, the bright white LED output reduced eye fatigue during extended nighttime driving. Consequently, the upgrade is not just about looking good. It genuinely makes your truck safer to drive after dark.
From an aesthetic standpoint, the transformation is equally impressive. The sleek LED signature completely modernizes the front end of the F-150. In fact, several people at the shop commented on how much better the truck looked with the new headlights installed. Furthermore, the fit and finish are excellent, with no gaps or alignment issues. The headlights look like they belong on the truck from the factory.
Another significant benefit is the lack of moisture issues. Specifically, the Morimoto XB housings are well-sealed and include proper ventilation to prevent condensation buildup. Therefore, you do not need to worry about foggy headlight lenses after a rainstorm or car wash. This is a common complaint with cheaper aftermarket headlights, and Morimoto addresses it with quality engineering.
The installation process itself earns high marks for simplicity. David completed the job in under an hour with basic hand tools. Moreover, he noted that the plug-and-play wiring made the entire process stress-free. Therefore, even if you have limited mechanical experience, this is a project you can tackle in your driveway on a Saturday afternoon.
Finally, the 5-year warranty provides peace of mind that few aftermarket headlight manufacturers can match. Consequently, the Morimoto XB LED headlights represent an excellent long-term investment in your truck. If you experience any issues, our Morimoto troubleshooting guide is a helpful resource. You can also visit our Morimoto FAQ page for answers to common questions.
If you are considering other options in the lineup, the Morimoto XB Hybrid-R and XB Hybrid headlights are also worth exploring. Each option offers a slightly different combination of features and price points. Therefore, there is a Morimoto headlight for every budget and preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Morimoto XB LED headlights DOT approved for the 2018+ F-150?
Yes. The Morimoto XB LED headlights are fully DOT compliant. Specifically, they meet all federal motor vehicle safety standards for headlight performance. Therefore, they are legal for on-road use and will not produce dangerous glare for oncoming drivers. Additionally, the beam pattern is precisely engineered with a proper cutoff line to direct light where it is needed most.
Do I need to remove the bumper to install these headlights?
Yes, the front bumper cover and grill need to be removed to access the headlight mounting points. However, this process is straightforward and does not require any specialized tools. Specifically, a basic socket set and trim removal tool are all you need. Furthermore, the entire bumper removal process takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. As shown in the video above, David walks through each step clearly.
Can I switch between sequential and solid turn signals?
Absolutely. The Morimoto XB LED headlights include a selector that allows you to toggle between sequential and solid turn signal modes. Therefore, you can choose the style that best suits your preference. Moreover, switching between modes does not require any rewiring or disassembly. Consequently, you can change your mind at any time without hassle.
Will these headlights cause any error codes or flickering?
No. The Morimoto XB LED headlights are specifically designed for the 2018 to 2020 Ford F-150’s electrical system. As a result, they work seamlessly with the truck’s CANBUS system without triggering any error codes or dashboard warnings. Furthermore, the included DRL harness integrates cleanly with the factory wiring. Therefore, flickering and other electrical issues are not a concern with these headlights.
What warranty do Morimoto XB LED headlights come with?
Morimoto offers an industry-leading 5-year warranty on the XB LED headlights. This warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, The Retrofit Source provides excellent customer support if you ever need assistance. For more details on common questions, visit our Morimoto FAQ page.
Meet the Experts Behind The Retrofit Source
Tyler Jordan – Technical Writer
Tyler works directly with the TRS product R&D team, bringing over a decade of automotive aftermarket lighting experience to every article. An avid enthusiast with hundreds of personal installations under his belt, his content is built on hands-on knowledge from the workbench, not spec sheets.
Caleb Morgan – Marketing Manager
Caleb brings over a decade of automotive lighting industry experience and works with TRS customers daily on the front lines. With hundreds of personal lighting installations and a direct feedback loop from real buyers, his content addresses the questions and problems that actually matter.
