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Quick Answer: How To Replace A Tail Light Bulb

How To Replace a Tail Light Step 1: Open trunk or tailgate. Step 2: Pull tail lamp assembly out (if needed) Step 3: Pull bulb out. Step 4: Add bulb grease, put new bulb in. Step 5: Reattach assembly (if needed) Step 6: Repeat on other side.

How much does it cost to replace a tail light bulb?

If you don’t want to change the bulb yourself, a local dealer or auto repair shop can help. Replacing one bulb in an average car will cost $10-$55 labor plus the cost of the bulb ($1-$7). In some cars it’s easy to do; in others the taillight assembly might need to be removed in order to change a bulb.

Is tail light and brake light the same bulb?

On many vehicles, the tail lights and brake lights share the same bulb. One filament inside the bulb is for the tail light and the other filament is for the brake light. There are also some vehicles that have a separate bulb for each circuit.

How do you remove a tail light cover?

You need to pull away or unscrew the cover from around the back of the broken taillight/turn-signal cover to gain access. This exposes the bulb connections at the back of the taillight. Grip firmly at the back of the bulb and push it in. Twist counter-clockwise to remove it from the broken taillight/turn-signal cover.

Can I change my tail light myself?

Changing your tail light bulbs is an easy form of maintenance that you can perform on your vehicle. You’ll see the wires connected to the back of the bulbs. If you’re changing a bulb in a vehicle that does not require you to remove the assembly, this is what you’ll see, only from inside the trunk or hatch.

How do you remove a broken tail light bulb?

If it’s an oldstyle bulb (brass base), just grab it with Vise-Grips and deform it until it comes out. If it’s newer blade style, you should be able to pry it out with a screwdriver. Obviously you don’t want to go at it full bore in either case, just pry/twist/crank enough to get it out.

Does AutoZone install tail lights?

The most effective way to get your hands on the correct tail light bulbs is to head to AutoZone and shop online. The website has just what you’re looking for to complete this job. You can schedule an in-store pickup, or you can have AutoZone ship them to your place.

Does AutoZone install light bulbs?

AutoZone does not provide mechanic services; thus, no disassembly should be done. However, they can change headlight bulbs in some cases. AutoZone will not replace the bulb if the store dealer must remove other car elements, such as the windshield wiper fluid or battery.

Why do police tap the tail light?

Police need to be able to examine a vehicle quickly before approaching it, and touching/tapping a tail light can tell cops a lot about the person being pulled over. For instance, this tactic can give the officer an idea of the driver’s mental state.

Why do my tail lights work but not my brake lights?

The most common reason your brake lights are not working but tail lights do is a bad light bulb. It can also be caused by a blown fuse, bad brake light switch, or issues with the wirings. Your vehicle’s taillights are working fine, but the brake lights don’t come on when you press the brakes.

Can you use headlight bulbs for tail lights?

LED bulbs can be used as brake lights and even should be a preferred option due to the benefits they provide. LED taillights are brighter, faster to illuminate, and longer-lasting, making them a better option than halogens.

What causes both tail lights to go out?

The most common reason why your tail lights are not working but brake lights are is due to a bad or wrong type of light bulb installed. It can also be caused by a blown fuse, bad wirings, or corroded sockets or plugs. A faulty control light switch could also be to blame.

Can you replace just the plastic on a tail light?

If you have a cracked tail light cover, you do not need to replace it. A simple repair with a few tools and materials will do just fine.

Can you replace a tail light lens?

Nope—this is a job you can do with ordinary hand tools and the Internet. Finding a replacement taillight assembly is easy. Simply enter “taillight” into your favorite search engine. You’ll be amazed at the number of hits you get.

Can a cracked tail light be fixed?

You can replace taillights, but, if you have time available, it can be time-intensive. Depending upon the effort, the tail light fix can be easy and fast. Still, if you’re able, there’s no other method but replacing the taillights. You can fix any cracks and chips.

How long does it take to replace a tail light cover?

It shouldn’t take more than 45 minutes to replace the tail light bulb.

Does O’Reilly change tail lights?

Our Parts Professionals will install wiper blades and replacement bulbs free of charge (with purchase of wiper blades or bulbs). Whether you’ve bought front or rear wipers (or both), headlights or tail lights, we’d be happy to install them for you. Restrictions apply. See your local store for details.