Dorman 42412 Headlight Bulb Retainer

Headlight Bulb Retainer for Ford and Mercury

Dorman 42412 is a replacement headlight bulb retainer built to match the fit and function of the original part. It uses quality plastic construction and a clip-on mounting method for a secure hold in the specified headlight application.

Compatible with select Ford Taurus, Tempo, Escort, Mustang, and Mercury Sable, Topaz, and Lynx models from 1985-1991, this headlight bulb retainer supports a proper bulb-to-housing connection. Dorman 42412 is a direct replacement for worn, cracked, or missing retainers in these applications.

Key Features

• Replacement headlight bulb retainer for OE-style fit and function
• Plastic construction with gray finish
• Clip-on mounting method for straightforward retention
• Inside diameter: 0.75 in
• Overall height: 1.75 in
• Overall length: 3.8 in
• Package contents: bulb retainer
• Part number: 42412

Detailed Description

This Dorman headlight bulb retainer is engineered for the specified Ford and Mercury headlight applications, including 1986-1991 Ford Taurus, 1986-1991 Ford Tempo, 1986-1991 Mercury Sable, 1986-1991 Mercury Topaz, 1985-1990 Ford Escort, 1985-1990 Ford Mustang, and 1985 Mercury Lynx. It is made from quality materials and tested for proper fit so the bulb stays secured in the headlamp assembly. If you are replacing a damaged retainer on a Ford Mustang, Ford Escort, or Mercury Sable, Dorman 42412 provides a direct-fit service part for the original setup. This part cross-references 424122 for the same application.

Common Problems It Can Solve

• Loose headlight bulb retention in the housing
• Broken or cracked original bulb retainer
• Improper bulb seating after prior service
• Headlight assembly issues caused by a missing retaining clip
• Fitment problems during headlight bulb replacement

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the headlamp application before installation and compare the original retainer to Dorman 42412 for size and clip style. The clip-on design installs without separate hardware. Inspect the bulb, housing, and surrounding mounting points for wear or damage before securing the retainer.

Quality Assurance

Dorman tests this replacement retainer for proper fit in the listed headlight applications. The part is built from quality materials to support reliable service in the specified Ford and Mercury vehicles.