Are the lenses on your Ray-Ban 4171 Erika broken or scratched? You can replace them at home without tools: just press with your fingers from the inside to pop them out, then fit the new ones starting from one side. That way you get your glasses back without buying a new pair.
As well as bringing your Erika back to life, replacing the lenses is an easy way to give it a different style, because there are lots of colors available for this model. In this guide we explain how to do it step by step and what to avoid.
Before you start
Identify your model and size
On the inside of the arm you will see the full reference: the model (RB4171), the color code and the lens and bridge measurements, in the same format Ray-Ban uses on all its models (for example, “RB3025 001 58□14” on an Aviator). Write down the lens size, because the new lens must be exactly that size to fit properly.
What you need
- The new lenses: original Ray-Ban 4171 Erika replacement lenses or, if you are looking for a more affordable option, compatible lenses.
- A microfiber cloth to hold the lenses without leaving fingerprints.
- Optional: lukewarm water or a hair dryer on a low setting, in case the frame is very stiff.
Step by step: how to replace the RB4171 Erika lenses
- Hold the glasses with the inside facing you, gripping the front firmly but without twisting it.
- Place your thumb on the inside of the lens, near the edge, and gently press outward.
- Once one side of the lens comes free, work your way around the edge until it comes out completely.
- If the frame feels very stiff, warm the front for a few seconds with lukewarm water or the hair dryer on low and try again. Never use strong heat.
- Pick up the new lens with the cloth and place it on its side, with the curved face outward.
- Fit it starting from one side of the rim and press a little at a time along the rest of the edge until it is seated all the way around.
- Repeat with the other lens and check that neither one has any play.
How to tell if it is fitted correctly
Run your finger all around the edge of the lens: no section should stick out and there should be no gap between the lens and the frame. Also look at the glasses head-on to check that both lenses are symmetrical. If one moves, press along the edge again until it clicks into place.
Look after your new lenses
Clean them with lukewarm water and a microfiber cloth, never with paper, napkins or your clothes, which drag dust across the lens and end up scratching it. Keep the glasses in their case when you are not wearing them and avoid leaving them lens-down or on the car dashboard in the sun.
Common mistakes
- Pushing from the outside to remove it. The lens comes out when you press from the inside outward.
- Applying too much heat. Excessive heat can warp the frame or damage the lens. Lukewarm is enough.
- Mixing up left and right. Replace one lens at a time; the other one serves as a reference.
- Ordering the wrong lens size. A lens of a different size will not fit. Check the measurements on the arm before buying.
- Touching the lens with your fingers. Use the cloth so you don’t leave fingerprints.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need tools?
No. The Erika lenses are replaced using finger pressure. Only if the frame is very stiff is it worth warming it slightly.
Can I change the lens color?
Yes, there are lots of colors available for this model. Just choose the one you want in your lens size.
Can I fit prescription lenses?
Yes, we have prescription lenses for the Ray-Ban 4171 to turn your Erika into prescription sunglasses or eyeglasses.
What warranty do they have?
All our lenses come with a 3-year warranty against manufacturing defects. The originals come from EssilorLuxottica, for whom we have been a certified distributor since 2018.
More spare parts for your Ray-Ban Erika
As well as the lenses, you may need to replace the arms, temple tips or screws. We have original Ray-Ban 4171 arms and other spare parts for the Erika. Standard shipping is free on qualifying orders. If you have any questions, write to us and we will help you by email. Below you will find a selection of products for this model.
Looking for a replacement part for your glasses?
Type the model engraved on the temple arm and we'll show you everything that fits.
