The metal brackets actually go under the light housing and are anchored to the frame. Looking at the tech installing it, it is no longer as easy as popping the housings out with a crowbar. It can still be done, but the housings would be destroyed. I know you guys will say this doesn't matter since they just go after the bulbs and ballasts, but still, the longer the thief has to take, the more chance he'll get caught. The only problem is more damage to hood and fenders if a thief really wants the lights.

Here is the letter Nissan will be sending out to 02-03 Maxima owners.

Dear Maxima Owner,

Nissan and the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) have some important information about protecting your Maxima and helping to fight crime. Please read this letter carefully.

Why you have recieved this letter

Our records show that you own a 2002 or 2003 Maxima. Nissan is working with NICB and various law enforcement agencies in certain areas in the Northeast United States to help reduce incidents of thefts of headlights from these vehicles. The headlights use an advanced technology Xenon lighting system that has been targeted by criminals in some major metropolitan areas in New York and New Jersey. Vehicles with Xenon lighting made by other companies have also been affected.

Nissan has worked with law enforcement to develop a program to help reduce the chance of headlight theft on the Maxima and to help catch those who participate in these crimes.

Nissan's theft deterrent and police support program:

Nissan has developed a three-point program to assist law enforcement and to reduce the chance that your Maxima will be the target of headlight theft.

First, new securing devices for the headlights have been designed to help
discourage theft. Your Nissan dealer wil place these on your vehicle
at no charge.
Second, at the same time the securing devices are installed, a new type of
identification technology called "DataDots" will be applied to the headlights.
these will have a unique identifying number that links your VIN. Not only
should this help track thefts, but also help in the prosecution of those who
are caught with your property. In addition, "DataDots" stickers will be
applied to the headlights and front door windows so thieves will know they
risk being caught and be less likely to target your car.
Finally, Nissan is implementing this in areas around New York and New Jersey
to reduce the likelihood that these crimes will move to other areas where
they are not now occuring. Not only are customers in these states being
contacted, but also Maxima owners in CT, MA and eastern PA will recieve
this letter.

No program will eliminate all auto-related crime, but Nissan, NICB and local law enforcement agencies believe these steps should help reduce theft and catch those who are responsible.

What you can do to help.

Schedule an appointment with your Nissan dealer at your earliest convenience to have the securing devices and "DataDots" placed on your Maxima. There will be no charge to you for this service. It should take about 1 1/2 hours, although your dealer may require your vehicle for a longer time based on work schedule.

And consider this question from police: If your neighbor participates in this program but you don't, whose Maxima will more likely be at risk? Help us help you and your community to make this program a success.

Other tips on protecting your vehicle from theft:

The enclosed brochure from the NICB provides additional useful information about vehicle theft and how to prevent it.

If you have questions:

If you have questions about this program, you may contact Nissan Consumer Affairs Office.

Thank you for doing your part.

Originally posted by lhl10
Just wondering who was your source of this info...I checked my TL and saw 2 black boxes. How do you know that's the ballasts.