How to Replace a Tail Light

Is there a tail light or backup light bulb that is not working on your vehicle? Maybe it is the turn signal bulb no matter they are relatively easy to change and the job usually takes less than five minutes to complete.

Making sure these bulbs work correctly is important not only for safety but it is the law. Knowing how to change these bulbs when they burn out is invaluable especially if you drive at night.

Here is how to change a bad rear bulb in most vehicles. Owner's manuals will tell you if there is some special tool to buy. Most of the bulbs either are behind the cover or are accessible inside the trunk.

Step 1: Read the owner's manual and see what kind of bulb to buy. Knowing which bulb to buy will save time. Many bulbs can be purchased at local convenience stores. The bulbs that are harder to find can be purchased at any automotive store.

Step 2: Read the owner's manual and see if there are any special tools needed for removing the red tail light cover if applicable. Sometimes there may be a star screw that needs to be removed. Removing the cover is usually an easy to do task to do.

Step 3: Remove the old bulb by twisting the socket the socket has two plastic prongs that will lock when twisted one way and unlock when twisted the other. After pulling the socket out then pull the bulb out by pushing down on it and twisting. The bulb has two metal prongs.

Step 4: Install the new bulb by putting it back in the same way as the other one came out. There are instructions on the bulb packs if in doubt. Be careful not to hold the bulb to tightly like all light bulbs they can break. Like all light bulbs they are made of glass.

Step 5: Put the cover back on if applicable and retighten it. Snug it down so as not to break the cover. Test the new light and if everything works ok then you are finished with this particular project.

Knowing how to change a light in the rear of ones vehicle is important. Checking these lights from time to time is equally important. Most vehicles do not have sensors that tell us when these lights are not burning so it is left up to us to check. Do it yourself and save.