Dorman 42957 Headlight Retainer

Dorman 42957 Headlight Retainer

The Dorman 42957 headlight retainer is a direct-fit replacement for select Ford and Mercury applications. Built from steel with a black finish, it matches the original part’s fit and function for secure headlight retention on the specified vehicles.

• Steel construction for dependable support
• Black finish for a clean OE-style appearance
• Clip-on attachment type with a specific fit
• Rectangle shape with two mounting holes
• Designed to match the original headlight retainer on select vehicles

Vehicle Fitment

• Fits 2001-2005 Ford Explorer, N/A; Straight Retainer; Package Quantity: 2; Packaging Type: Box
• Fits 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, N/A; Straight Retainer; Package Quantity: 2; Packaging Type: Box
• Fits 2001-2005 Mercury Mountaineer, N/A; Straight Retainer; Package Quantity: 2; Packaging Type: Box
• Fits 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport, N/A; Straight Retainer; Package Quantity: 2; Packaging Type: Box

Detailed Description

Built for select Ford Explorer, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Mercury Mountaineer, and Ford Explorer Sport models, Dorman 42957 is a specific-fit headlight retainer engineered to replicate the original mounting geometry. Its steel construction, clip-on attachment, and 0.71-inch fastener hole size support a secure connection at the headlamp assembly. If you are replacing a worn or damaged headlight retainer on a 2001-2005 Ford Explorer or related application, this part number 42957 provides the OE-style dimensions needed for proper alignment and retention.

This part cross-references Ford OE number 1L5Z13N020AA for the same application.

Common Repair Uses

• Broken or missing headlight retainer at the front lighting assembly
• Loose headlamp mounting caused by a damaged clip
• Improper headlight alignment after retainer wear
• Corrosion or fatigue in the original steel retainer
• Restoring secure headlight support on Ford Explorer and Mountaineer models

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the vehicle’s year, model, and headlight retainer style before installation. Compare the original retainer’s shape, clip-on attachment, and hole spacing to Dorman 42957 to confirm a proper match. Inspect the surrounding headlamp mounting points for damage or corrosion before securing the replacement part.

Quality Assurance

Dorman designs this headlight retainer to match the fit and function of the original part on the listed vehicles. It is manufactured from quality materials for reliable performance in the specified applications.