Porsche 986 Headlight Plastic Mount Part Number: Complete Guide

If you own a Porsche Boxster (986) from 1997 to 2004, you’ve likely encountered the infamous broken headlight plastic mount. These mounts fail over time due to heat, vibration, and brittle aging plastic. Replacing them requires the correct part number, but sourcing that information can be confusing. This article provides a clear, practical guide to finding the right Porsche 986 headlight plastic mount part number for your car, along with buying and installation advice.

Understanding the Porsche 986 Headlight Assembly

The headlight assembly on the 986 Boxster is a complex unit that includes the lens, reflector, bulbs, and a plastic housing. The critical mounting points are small plastic tabs or brackets that secure the assembly to the body. These plastic mounts are known to crack or break, causing the headlight to become loose or misaligned.

Common Failure Points

• Upper mounting tabs: The tabs that hook into the body are especially prone to breaking when removing the headlight.
• Lower pivot points: The ball-and-socket joints that allow adjustment can also snap.
• Adjuster gear teeth: Plastic gears inside the adjuster mechanism wear out.

Most owners discover the damage when trying to replace a bulb or during a pre-purchase inspection. The good news is that replacement parts are available, but you need the correct part number to avoid ordering the wrong item.

Identifying the Correct Part Number

The original Porsche part numbers for the headlight plastic mounting components vary by model year and side (left vs right). Here are the key numbers you need.

Original Porsche Part Numbers

For the 986 Boxster (1997–2004):

• Headlight housing mount bracket (left): 986 631 135 01
• Headlight housing mount bracket (right): 986 631 136 01
• Headlight adjuster gear (plastic): 996 631 025 00 (fits both sides)
• Headlight pivot ball socket: 996 631 019 01

Note that these numbers may have superseded versions. For example, 986 631 135 01 is often superseded by 986 631 135 02. Always verify with your VIN or dealer.

Aftermarket Alternatives

Several aftermarket brands offer replacement plastic mounts that are often cheaper and sometimes improved with reinforced materials. Common part numbers include:

• URO Parts – Headlight mounting bracket set (left and right) – part number 98663113501URO
• Dorman – Headlight adjuster gear – 593-284
• Audiovox – Replacement headlight mounting kit – 986-631-135-01 (cross-reference)

When buying aftermarket, ensure the part is specifically listed for the Porsche 986 Boxster. Some parts may look similar but have different dimensions.

How to Verify Compatibility

Not all 986 Boxsters use the same plastic mounts. Model year updates and optional features (e.g., xenon headlights) can affect the design.

Left vs Right Side

The left and right headlight mounts are mirror images. The part numbers are different, so you cannot swap them. Check the original part’s orientation and confirm you are ordering the correct side. Often the part number is stamped on the existing bracket.

Model Year Variations

• 1997–1999: Early 986s had slightly different headlight adjuster mechanisms. The mount brackets are the same as later years, but double-check.
• 2000–2002: Most common, with the part numbers listed above.
• 2003–2004: The final 986 years may have updated plastic mounts. For example, the adjuster gear on some late models uses a different gear pitch. Use your VIN to confirm.

If you’re unsure, the safest approach is to remove your broken mount and match it visually with online images. Many Porsche forums have detailed comparison photos.

Purchasing the Replacement Mount

Once you have the correct Porsche 986 headlight plastic mount part number, you need to decide where to buy.

OEM vs Aftermarket Considerations

• OEM Porsche: More expensive but guaranteed fit and quality. Available from your local Porsche dealer or online OEM parts suppliers. Expect to pay $30–$60 per bracket.
• Aftermarket: Typically $10–$30. Quality varies; some aftermarket parts use stronger nylon or include reinforcing ribs. Read user reports on forums to find reliable brands.
• Used parts: You can find intact mounts from salvage cars, but plastic may be equally brittle.

Recommendation: For the mounting brackets, OEM is preferred because aftermarket parts sometimes have poor fitment. For adjuster gears and small items, aftermarket is generally fine.

Installation Tips

Replacing the headlight plastic mount is a moderate DIY job, but take care to avoid breaking additional tabs.

1. Remove the headlight assembly – Unbolt the lower screws and pull the unit forward. Disconnect electrical connectors.
2. Inspect the broken mount – Note how the old bracket attaches to the housing (usually with screws or integral clips).
3. Replace the bracket – Screw in the new mount using the same fasteners. Apply a small amount of plastic-friendly lubricant to pivot points.
4. Reinstall the headlight – Align the mounting tabs and secure. Adjust beam height using the adjuster screws.

Work slowly and avoid forcing parts. If the adjuster gears are stripped, consider replacing the entire adjuster assembly.

Final Recommendation

To fix your broken Porsche 986 headlight plastic mount, start by confirming the exact original part number: 986 631 135 01 (left) or 986 631 136 01 (right) for the bracket, or 996 631 025 00 for the adjuster gear. Verify compatibility with your specific model year and side. For the mounting brackets, choose OEM Porsche parts for reliability; for adjuster gears, aftermarket like URO Parts works well. Always check forums and part diagrams before ordering. With the correct part number in hand, you can restore your headlight’s secure fit and safe alignment.