TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set Review: A Clear Upgrade or a Leaky Mess?

There’s a moment every owner of a seasoned vehicle knows all too well. You’re driving home on a familiar, unlit backroad, and you find yourself leaning forward, squinting, trying to pierce a darkness that seems thicker than it used to be. The yellow, hazy beams from your headlights feel weak, casting a pathetic glow that gets swallowed by the night. This was exactly our situation with our trusty 1996 GMC Sierra project truck. Years of sun, road debris, and countless car washes had sandblasted and oxidized the original lenses into cloudy, cataract-like shells. Polishing kits, a yearly ritual, were no longer cutting it. The light output was dangerously poor, and frankly, they made an otherwise clean truck look tired and neglected. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it’s a critical safety failure waiting to happen. Inadequate lighting reduces reaction time, hides road hazards, and makes you less visible to others. It was time for a complete replacement.

Before You Upgrade: What to Know About Aftermarket Headlight Assemblies

An automotive headlight assembly is more than just a bulb and a piece of glass; it’s a key solution for safety, vehicle aesthetics, and driving confidence. It precisely focuses light from the bulb into a controlled beam, illuminating the road ahead without blinding oncoming traffic. For owners of older vehicles, a new set of assemblies like the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set can be a transformative upgrade, restoring night-driving visibility to factory-new levels and giving the vehicle a much-needed facelift. The primary benefits are restored light performance, improved safety, and enhanced visual appeal, often for a fraction of the cost of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact issues we were: cloudy, damaged, or failing factory headlights on a vehicle that’s a few years (or decades) old. It’s for the DIY enthusiast who is comfortable with basic hand tools and wants to achieve a significant upgrade without paying steep dealership prices. This product category is also perfect for those restoring a classic car or truck and needing a crisp, clean look to complete the project. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who demand absolute perfection with zero potential for troubleshooting or for owners of very high-end or rare vehicles where only OEM parts will suffice to maintain value. For those seeking a technological leap, a simple halogen replacement might be less appealing than a full LED or HID conversion kit, which represents a different category of upgrade.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fitment & Compatibility: This is the single most important factor. Aftermarket parts can have slight tolerance differences from OEM. Always double- and triple-check that the assembly is specified for your vehicle’s exact year, make, and model. Look for part numbers like GM2500110 and GM2500112 and cross-reference them to ensure you’re buying the correct set. An improper fit can lead to unsightly gaps, difficulty with installation, and poor sealing against the elements.
• Light Source & Performance: Understand what you’re buying. The TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set is designed for halogen bulbs, which offer a classic look and are inexpensive to replace. While the new, clear lenses will dramatically improve the performance of standard bulbs, the housing itself is also a great platform if you plan to upgrade to brighter LED or HID bulbs later on. However, be aware that the reflector geometry is optimized for halogen, and beam patterns can sometimes be unpredictable with other bulb types.
• Materials & Durability: Headlight lenses are typically made from either polycarbonate or glass. These TRQ assemblies feature glass lenses, which are highly resistant to scratching and yellowing from UV exposure compared to polycarbonate. The housing is typically ABS plastic. The most critical component, however, is the sealant used to bond the lens to the housing. A poor seal is the number one cause of the dreaded condensation and water intrusion that plagues many aftermarket lights.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good assembly should be a “direct-fit” replacement, meaning it bolts into the factory locations without any drilling or modification. Long-term care is minimal, but ensuring the bulb sockets are properly sealed during installation is key. We also recommend inspecting the main lens-to-housing seal upon arrival and considering adding a bead of clear silicone as a preventative measure if you have any doubts.

While the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set is an excellent choice for a wide range of vehicles, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models and technologies available, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set: First Impressions and Key Specs

The assemblies arrived in a sturdy, well-packaged box, with each unit individually wrapped in protective plastic film. Our first impression was positive. The chrome reflector housing was bright and flawless, and the clear glass lenses were crystal clear, a stark contrast to the yellowed plastic we were replacing. They felt substantial in hand, with a reassuring weight. The design is a faithful OE-style replication, meant to blend in seamlessly rather than scream for attention with flashy halos or LED strips. This “OEM+” look, as one user described it, is perfect for a clean restoration. The kit includes both the driver and passenger side assemblies, pre-assembled and ready for installation. Upon close inspection of the seal between the lens and the housing, it appeared uniform, but this would be the component we’d be watching most closely once they were on the truck. You can see the full list of compatible vehicles and specs to confirm it’s the right fit for your project.

In the Garage and On the Road: A Deep Dive into the TRQ Headlight Set’s Performance

A product’s true character is revealed not on the spec sheet, but in the garage during installation and out on the road where it matters most. We put the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set through its paces, from the initial unboxing to late-night test drives and, crucially, its first encounter with bad weather. The results were a mix of impressive highs and concerning lows, painting a picture of a product with immense potential but a significant Achilles’ heel.

Installation and Fitment: A Tale of Two Experiences

TRQ markets this set as a direct, pre-assembled replacement for Original Equipment, promising a precise fit without the need for modifications. For many, this holds true. During our installation on the ’96 Sierra, the main mounting points lined up perfectly with the factory locations on the radiator support. The assemblies dropped into place with satisfying ease, a process that took no more than 15 minutes per side. Several users echoed this sentiment, with one noting, “They fit perfectly and all the body gaps look really nice. No complaints.” This plug-and-play experience is the ideal scenario and a major selling point.

However, the narrative is not universally positive. A significant number of users report fitment issues, suggesting inconsistency in manufacturing. One user mentioned, “fitment could have been a little better, it was a little hard for the turn signal piece to fit it.” Another, attempting to fit them to a 2000 BMW, stated flatly, “It simply does not. The parking/blinker light side of the assembly is too wide and will not fit the chassis.” This highlights the gamble with some aftermarket parts. While our primary installation was smooth, we did notice one of the plastic adjustment screw housings felt a bit flimsy compared to the robust OEM piece. It’s clear that while the design is intended to be universal for a huge range of vehicles, minor variations in either the headlight’s production or the vehicle’s frame can create frustrating challenges. Patience and a willingness to potentially finesse the fit are sometimes required, which is a key consideration for any prospective buyer exploring this cost-effective headlight solution.

Light Output and Beam Pattern: A Night and Day Difference

Once installed, the visual impact was immediate and staggering. The truck’s front end looked a decade younger. But the real test came after sunset. Switching on the lights for the first time was a genuine “wow” moment. The clear, flawless glass lenses allowed the standard halogen bulbs to project a beam that was easily twice as bright and projected much farther down the road than the old, clouded units. It was, as one very enthusiastic user put it, a jump from “0-100,” claiming the “brightness level is 10x better.” While ten times might be an exaggeration, the functional improvement is undeniable and represents a massive safety upgrade.

The beam pattern itself, however, required attention. Out of the box, the lights were aimed far too high. This is common with replacement assemblies, and proper adjustment is not just recommended; it’s a mandatory step to ensure you’re not blinding oncoming drivers. Using the built-in adjustment screws, we were able to align them to the correct height against our garage wall. We did observe what another user described as a slightly “choppy” beam cutoff. It’s not as razor-sharp as you might find on a modern luxury car, but it’s more than adequate for its intended application and a world away from the scattered, dim light we had before. Many users choose these assemblies as a base for an LED bulb upgrade, and the crystal-clear lens makes it an excellent candidate for maximizing the output of higher-performance bulbs.

The Achilles’ Heel: Durability, Weather Sealing, and Quality Control

This is where our review takes a critical turn. An aesthetic and performance upgrade is meaningless if it can’t withstand the elements. For the first week, under clear skies, the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set performed flawlessly. Then, we took the truck through an automatic car wash. The result was immediate and deeply disappointing. On the driver’s side, a small patch of fog appeared in the lower corner. While it eventually dissipated, it was a clear sign of a compromised seal. Our experience, unfortunately, is far from unique. It is, in fact, the most common and severe complaint about this product.

User feedback is filled with cautionary tales. “Drivers side is a rainforest,” one stated succinctly. Another reported, “Installed these headlights 2 days ago. It rained last night, now both headlights have condensation in them.” These aren’t isolated incidents; they point to a systemic issue with the sealant used during manufacturing. Moisture inside a headlight isn’t just ugly; it drastically reduces light output, causes corrosion on the reflective surfaces, and can lead to premature bulb failure. One user even had a bulb explode inside the moisture-filled casing. This flaw completely undermines the product’s core function and longevity. On top of the sealing issues, some users have received units with shocking quality control failures right out of the box: “Lenses inside sealed housing were dislodged,” and “Scratches on the exterior of the housing UNDER THE PLASTIC WRAP.” This suggests a lack of final inspection before packaging. The advertised two-year warranty offers little comfort, as multiple users reported being unable to contact TRQ for a replacement, citing no phone number and unresponsive email support. This critical flaw is a major gamble for any buyer.

From the Community: What Other Drivers Are Saying

Sifting through feedback from other drivers reveals a clear and polarized consensus on the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set. On one hand, there is a large group of satisfied customers who praise the product’s transformative effect. Comments like, “These headlights made this Escape look great again. Great fit,” and, “These headlights look amazing,” are common. These users, who likely received a well-sealed and properly manufactured set, are thrilled with the value proposition, getting a massive aesthetic and performance boost for a modest investment.

On the other hand, the negative feedback is consistent and severe, centering almost exclusively on the two critical flaws we also observed: sealing and fitment. The moisture issue is rampant, with one user lamenting, “In less than three months during very little to no rain both lights were full of moisture.” Another called it the “Worst… purchase ever” after they filled with condensation after the first rain. The frustration is compounded by poor quality control, as one buyer received a unit where “the lens and clips were coming apart.” This stark division in user experience suggests that purchasing this product is a lottery; you might receive a perfect set, or you might receive one destined to fail at the first sign of humidity. This is a crucial factor to weigh before you decide to check the latest price and availability.

How Does It Stack Up? TRQ Headlight Set vs. The Competition

The **TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set** occupies a specific niche: a budget-friendly, OE-style halogen replacement. But the market offers many alternatives, particularly for those willing to change technology or who own different vehicles. Here’s how it compares to three popular options.

1. HWSTAR 7 Inch LED Headlights Round

This HWSTAR product represents a full technological leap, not a simple replacement. It’s an LED projector system designed for vehicles with classic 7-inch round headlights, like Jeep Wranglers or older muscle cars. Compared to the TRQ set, the HWSTAR offers vastly superior brightness, a sharper beam cutoff, and modern features like a “Starry” Daytime Running Light (DRL) and halo turn signals. Someone should choose this over the TRQ set if they own a compatible vehicle (Jeep, classic Ford/Chevy) and their priority is maximum light output and modern styling, rather than a stock, original appearance.

2. ADCARLIGHTS Dodge Ram Headlight Assembly 09-18

The ADCARLIGHTS assembly is a more direct competitor, but for a different vehicle family (2009-2018 Dodge Ram trucks). Like the TRQ set, it’s an OE-style halogen replacement with a chrome housing. The key differentiator is its specific application. A Ram owner would choose this because it is purpose-built for their truck, which often leads to more reliable fitment than a “universal” style part like the TRQ. If you are a Ram owner looking for a simple, clean, and reliable restoration of your factory lights, this is a more tailored and likely safer bet than a brand with known QC inconsistencies.

3. HWSTAR 180W 5×7 7×6 LED Headlights DRL

Similar to its round counterpart, this HWSTAR product is an LED upgrade for vehicles that use the same rectangular format as the TRQ set, such as the Jeep Cherokee XJ or Ford F-series trucks. This is the choice for a driver who wants to keep the rectangular shape but desires a massive upgrade in lighting technology. With 180W of power, DRL functionality, and turn signals integrated, it offers a feature set the basic halogen TRQ assembly cannot match. A buyer would select this if their goal is ultimate nighttime performance and safety, and they are willing to pay more for a modern, high-output LED system.

The Final Verdict: Should You Buy the TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the **TRQ 2 Piece Headlight Assembly Set** is a conditional one. There is no denying the incredible value it presents on the surface. For a very reasonable price, you can erase years of aging from your vehicle’s appearance and restore nighttime visibility to a level that feels brand new. The aesthetic and performance uplift, when you get a good set, is absolutely worth the cost. It is a feature that really sets it apart in its price bracket.

However, that “good set” caveat is a massive one. The widespread, documented issues with water intrusion from poor seals are simply too significant to ignore. Buying this product is a gamble. We can therefore only recommend it to a specific type of user: the budget-conscious DIYer who is fully aware of the potential for leaks and is willing to take preventative measures. If you are prepared to inspect the seals upon arrival and spend an extra 30 minutes applying a quality bead of clear silicone sealant around the lens housing before installation, you can likely mitigate the primary failure point and end up with a fantastic-looking, high-performing product for a bargain price. If you are looking for a guaranteed, install-and-forget solution, we strongly advise you to look at more reputable, albeit more expensive, alternatives.