Ferrari 296 GTB Headlight Left Right 812845 812842

the part numbers 812842 and 812845 identify the Front Headlight Assemblies for the Ferrari 296 GTB and 296 GTS. These high-performance LED Matrix units are central to the 296’s aerodynamic “aero-bridge” design and its advanced driver assistance systems.

1. Technical Identification

• Part 812842 (Left / LH): Front Left Headlamp Assembly.

• Part 812845 (Right / RH): Front Right Headlamp Assembly.

• Technology: These are AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) units. They utilize LED Matrix technology to adjust the light beam dynamically based on steering input and speed, and can selectively dim pixels to avoid blinding oncoming traffic while maintaining high-beam illumination elsewhere.

• Specifications: Often listed as “EU Spec,” though these parts are frequently used as the primary reference for both European and USA models (sometimes with minor internal coding or reflector differences).

2. 2026 Market Pricing (Estimated USD)

Replacing a headlight on the 296 is a significant expense due to the integrated cooling, control modules, and AFS motors.

3. Critical Installation Notes

• AFS Calibration: Because these units are “Adaptive,” they contain internal motors. After installation, a Static and Dynamic Calibration is required using Ferrari’s DEIS diagnostic system to ensure the “zero-point” of the beam is correct.

• The “Aero-Bridge” Seal: The 296 features a unique air intake just above the headlight. When installing parts 812842 or 812845, the weather sealing must be perfect; otherwise, high-velocity air can whistle through the gap or force moisture into the electrical connectors.

• Bumper Removal: Accessing the lower mounting brackets requires the removal of the front bumper and the front segment of the carbon-fiber (or plastic) wheel arch liners.

4. 2026 Maintenance: Protective Trends

Given the $15,000+ replacement cost for a pair, 2026 owners are standardizing two protective measures:

• Headlight PPF: A 10-mil thick Paint Protection Film is applied specifically to the headlight lens to prevent the pitting and “sandblasting” effect common at high speeds.

• Carbon Fiber Inserts: Many owners are adding aftermarket Carbon Fiber Headlight Inserts (approx. $1,000) that surround the lens, protecting the paint edges during the high-vibration cooling cycles of the LED Matrix.