Dec 23 2020

Replace your Taillights Yourself

 

A broken tail light doesn't necessarily mean you have to go to the body shop. Replacing a tail light is actually something you can do with ordinary tools and the internet. Here is how to do it.

1. Find a Replacement Light:

Finding a replacement tail light is easy.

• Most auto parts companies sell low-cost “knock-offs” of Original Equipment (OEM) parts.
• Many car dealerships have also set up websites that sell genuine parts at reduced prices.
• Or, if you prefer an “aftermarket” version, make sure the seller sells CAPA certified parts. A CAPA certified part is guaranteed to fit and work like the original.

2. Determine How Your Tail Light is Attached:

Automakers use two different techniques to attach tail lights to the car body.

• One method is to drive threaded rods into the tail light. These rods are inserted into holes in the sheet metal and fixed with nuts.
• The second method uses screws to secure one end of the lumen and studs on the other side.

3. Remove and Replace the Old Tail Light:

If your tail light is attached with threaded nails, here's how to remove them:

• Locate the nuts and remove them from the threaded rods using a socket wrench and ratchet.

If your vehicle is equipped with the stud method, here is how to remove the tail light:

• Remove the screws on the side of the trunk or tail light tailgate. They are usually hidden under blankets.
• Then use a wooden or plastic tool to pry the stud out of the socket.
• Do not use a metal screwdriver, as it will likely scratch your car's paint.

Once you've cleared the taillight assembly, release the tethering mechanism and twist it to remove the bulb sockets.

• If you haven't replaced the bulbs in the past two years, you should do it now since you've already taken everything apart.
• Once you've replaced the bulbs, follow these three steps in reverse order to install the new taillights.