How to Install Porsche 718 Matrix-Style LED Headlights on Porsche 718 Cayman, Boxster, and GT4RS

Upgrading from xenon to Matrix-style LED headlights on the Porsche 718 brings a real difference to night driving. The beam pattern gets sharper, the adaptive tech is smarter, and the look matches newer models. We’ll go over how to do the full install, from prep and fitment to post-install coding, based on what we’ve learned from multiple 718 Cayman, Boxster, and GT4RS installs.

Understanding the Porsche 718 Headlight System

Before we start the work, it helps to understand how Porsche wired the 718’s front lighting system.

The 718’s OEM xenon setup uses a ballast and separate modules for DRL and cornering functions. The Matrix LED units integrate these features into a single module, controlled by the body control unit (BCM).

That means upgrading isn’t just plug-and-play, you’ll need to handle wiring adaptation and coding.

Models covered:

• 718 Cayman (2019–present)

• 718 Boxster (2019–present)

• 718 Cayman GT4RS (2022–present, xenon-equipped variants only)

Tools and Equipment Needed

Basic tools:

• 10mm and T25 sockets

• Plastic trim tool

• Torque wrench (Nm scale)

• Small flat screwdriver

• Torx driver set

• Fender covers or microfiber cloths
  
  

Electrical tools:

• Multimeter

• Wire tap or repair connectors

• Heat shrink tubing and electrical tape
  
  

Safety gear:

• Gloves

• Eye protection

• Fused battery disconnect tool
  
  

Owner tip: disconnect the negative battery terminal before removing any light housing. Porsche BCMs are sensitive to voltage spikes.

Preparation and Setup

1. Park on level ground and switch off ignition.

2. Open the front trunk and locate the battery, disconnect negative terminal.

3. Protect paintwork with covers around both front fenders.

4. Label all connectors during removal. This saves time during reassembly.
   
   

Before we install, test each Matrix headlight using a 12V bench setup to confirm DRL and projector operation. It’s easier to confirm functionality before mounting.

Removing the OEM Xenon Headlights

1. Remove front wheels for easier access (optional but recommended).

2. Unclip the fender liner fasteners near the headlight housing.

3. Locate the access bolts under the liner, there are usually two Torx screws and one 10mm bolt per side.

4. Slide the headlight forward slowly. Don’t pull too far, there are multiple connectors at the back.

5. Disconnect the harnesses:

• Main power plug

• Ballast connector

• DRL and turn signal plug

6. Remove the old headlight housing. Store it somewhere soft to avoid scratching.
   
   

Owner tip: sometimes the alignment tabs on the headlight brackets stick. Applying light silicone spray helps when sliding the new housing later.

Installing the Matrix-Style LED Headlights

Here’s where most of the time goes, aligning, wiring, and ensuring coding compatibility.

Step 1: Wiring Preparation

1. Compare connectors between OEM xenon and Matrix LED.

• The Matrix unit typically uses a 4-pin or 5-pin layout versus the 3-pin xenon.

2. Use the provided harness adapter from BayOptiks if available. It bridges power, DRL, and turn functions.

3. Check polarity with a multimeter before connecting.

4. Secure loose wiring with heat shrink and zip ties.
   
   

Tip: label new wires “L” and “R” to match sides. Porsche BCMs detect swapped polarity.

Step 2: Fitting the New Headlights

1. Position the Matrix unit into the housing cavity.

2. Align lower brackets first, then upper tabs.

3. Tighten the 10mm bolts to 5 Nm torque, do not overtighten.

4. Reconnect wiring harnesses and secure clips until they click.

5. Visually inspect for even panel gaps between fender and bumper edges.
   
   

Fitment note: on some 718 GT4RS models, you may need to slightly adjust bumper trim clips for clearance, the Matrix housing is fractionally deeper.

Step 3: Reconnect the Battery and Test

1. Reconnect the negative terminal on the battery.

2. Turn ignition to accessory mode.

3. Check all functions: DRL, low beam, high beam, turn signal, and adaptive light movement.

4. If any light flickers or stays off, disconnect and recheck pin alignment.
   
   

Owner tip: if DRLs don’t power up, the control module may need adaptation coding via PIWIS or OBDeleven.

Coding and Calibration

Upgrading to Matrix LEDs requires minor coding to tell the car’s BCM that new headlights are installed.

Coding Steps

1. Connect to PIWIS or equivalent diagnostic tool.

2. Go to Control Unit → Body Control Module.

3. Adapt lighting configuration:

• Set “Matrix LED” as headlight type.

• Disable xenon ballast reference.

• Activate adaptive beam and DRL signature.

4. Run “headlight leveling calibration.”
   
   

If you don’t have coding tools, most local Porsche specialists can do this within 30 minutes.

Alignment and Beam Adjustment

Once installed, aim the headlights properly to avoid glare.

1. Park 25 feet from a wall on level ground.

2. Measure the height from ground to center of each projector.

3. Mark a horizontal line on the wall two inches below that height.

4. Use the top adjuster screw on each housing to align beams.

5. Ensure the beam cutoff is level and symmetrical.
   
   

Owner tip: the adaptive matrix function will self-level at startup, but manual alignment ensures legal compliance.

Maintenance Tips

• Clean the headlight lenses with a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid alcohol-based products.

• Check for condensation; minor moisture after a wash is normal but persistent fogging means the rear cap isn’t sealed.

• Update software at regular service intervals, Porsche occasionally patches lighting logic through BCM updates.

• Avoid HID or aftermarket bulbs inside Matrix housings. They’re LED-specific.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tip: disconnect the battery for 10 minutes after any re-coding session to reset the light control unit.

Owner Tips from Real Installs

Based on multiple 718 installations shared by owners and retrofitters:

• Some owners found front bumper removal made the install cleaner, especially for GT4RS models.

• Coding support from retrofit communities (like Rennlist’s 718 section) can help if PIWIS isn’t available.

• A few noted that heat-dissipation fans on Matrix modules are slightly louder than stock xenon ballasts, normal behavior.

• Applying dielectric grease on connectors prevents corrosion, especially if the car is daily-driven.

Comparing Matrix LED vs Xenon Headlights

The upgrade doesn’t just make the car look newer, it modernizes night visibility.

Safety and Legal Notes

• Matrix LEDs meet DOT and ECE standards, but check your region’s local rules.

• Always aim headlights properly; misalignment can cause glare for others.

• Disconnect power when working around BCM or fuse box.

• Avoid handling LEDs with bare hands; oils can shorten lifespan.

Related Products and Resources

If you’re exploring other Porsche lighting options, check these:

• Best-Selling Porsche Headlights Collection, includes Matrix, LCI, and smoked variants.

• Porsche Headlights Collection, for Cayman, Boxster, and 911 models.

• Porsche Taillights Collection, complete rear-lighting upgrades to match your new headlights.
  
  

For background on LED technology and adaptive lighting regulations, these are helpful:

• NHTSA Adaptive Headlight Standards, US federal lighting rules.

• Porsche Newsroom – Matrix LED Tech, manufacturer insights into lighting development.

• Rennlist 718 Forum, community experiences and troubleshooting threads.
  
  

FAQs

Q: Can I install Matrix-style headlights without coding?

Not fully. The car will recognize the lights but adaptive functions and DRLs may not operate until coded.

Q: Are Matrix headlights compatible with all 718 models?

Yes, as long as your car originally came with xenon headlights. Base halogen models require additional harness work.

Q: How long does the install take?

Roughly three hours for experienced DIYers, five hours including coding and aiming.

Q: Do I need bumper removal?

Not always, but removing it gives better access to side mounts on GT4RS and makes wiring easier.

Q: Can these lights trigger dashboard errors?

Only if the coding isn’t completed or if connectors are loose. Clearing BCM memory usually fixes it.

Final Checks and Notes

Once everything’s mounted, aligned, and coded, the Porsche 718’s front end looks sharper and performs better. The adaptive beam makes night drives safer, and the visual update matches modern Porsche styling.

If you’ve done retrofits before, this upgrade feels straightforward. For first-timers, patience with wiring and coding pays off.