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  How to Replace a Tail Light

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Related Products: Automotive > Automotive Electrical > Automotive Lighting

There's no need to go to a costly mechanic when you can do things yourself, right? Well with these steps you can change a blown taillight, reverse light or brake light on your own. With a little elbow grease and know how you will be on your way.

Step One:


Evaluate how to access your blown bulb. A lens cover might need to be removed before you are able to make the change. It is also possible that the change needs to be done via the trunk. Inspect the light to find out which access point you will need to use. If there are no visible screws on the lens cover you will need to change the bulb through the trunk.

Step Two:


For an exterior change, unscrew the lens cover to expose the burnt out bulb. You now need to remove the bulb. Apply light pressure while turning simultaneously to extract the broken bulb. Be careful not to apply too much pressure so you don’t break the bulb and cut yourself. It may be quite difficult to remove if the glass is broken. For a trunk change remove the interior panel to make the change.

Step Three:


Once you have expose the bulb you need to determine what replacement you need. Take your used bulb to your local automotive supply store or locate the correct replacement online. Be sure to select the correct bulb for your vehicles particular make and model to ensure a fit.

Step Four:


Once you have obtained the correct replacement bulb you may now install it. First check to see if there is any corrosion in the socket. If so clean with a brush or wipe it clean. With the socket prepared simply screw the bulb back into its socket.

Step Five:


With the bulb in place, replace the lens cover if you did an exterior change. Test the bulbs to make sure you have installed them correctly. Step on the breaks and turn headlights on. Have someone confirm that all bulbs go on.

Related Products: Automotive > Automotive Electrical > Automotive Lighting

DISCLAIMER: Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of the information in this document. Neither NRHA, any contributor nor Aubuchon Hardware can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.

Aubuchon Hardware

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*Aubuchon Hardware stores are located in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut and New York.
© W.E. Aubuchon Co., Inc. 2008.