Step-by-step instructions for replacing a broken tail light or turn-signal cover, including the tools needed, removal, cleaning, reinstallation, wiring, and testing.
Driving in cities and crowded suburbs always poses parking problems. You are lucky if you find a parking space large enough to maneuver your car into. More often than not, parking spaces are so tight that bumps to the front and rear of your car are unavoidable. Sadly, most bumps result in broken tail lights, forcing you to replace them. If you want tips on how to replace a broken tail light, follow these steps:
- Prepare the materials needed to replace a broken tail light. You will need a Phillips screwdriver; a socket and ratchet may also be used. Purchase a new tail light and turn-signal cover set to replace the broken ones. These can be bought from your local auto parts dealer. Place your order early, because stores may run out of stock; these items sell quickly. When buying the lights, identify your car’s model and body style first so the dealer can find an exact match.
- Locate the tail light mechanism in your car’s trunk. Lift the trunk cover and you will find the light connections right behind the tail light. You may need a flashlight to see the mechanism clearly. Trace the wire fittings so you know where to connect the new bulb.
- Disconnect the broken tail light. Using a Phillips screwdriver, loosen the screws attaching the broken tail light or cover to its mechanism. Remember to turn the screwdriver counterclockwise. If the screwdriver does not fit the screw heads, use a socket and ratchet instead. Put the screws in a container so you don’t misplace them.
- Brush off dust, rust, and corroded parts from the assembly. Use a clean, unused paintbrush to remove dirt. Then dampen a clean cloth with a little oil and use it to wipe the tail light mechanism to prevent further corrosion.
- Replace the tail light or cover with the new one. Put the screws back in place, making sure the light is properly aligned. You will know it is not installed properly if the cover does not fit or snap into place. Be careful when screwing the tail light back in, and avoid knocking the bulb lest it break.
- Test the tail light by having someone turn on the turn-signal switch. If the light comes on, it is installed correctly. If not, something is wrong with the installation, so check and reinstall it.
- Make sure the electrical wiring to the tail light is properly arranged. If the wiring is not arranged correctly, there is a good chance that your car’s electrical system will suffer a short circuit.
Replacing a broken tail light on your own can save you money because you won’t need to hire a mechanic. Still, equip yourself with a blueprint layout of your car’s mechanism so you won’t go blank when you start dismantling the assembly. If you lack knowledge in this area, however, you should hire an auto repair professional who is experienced with your car’s assembly.
Replace a broken tail light or turn-signal cover
Step-by-step instructions for replacing a broken tail light or turn-signal cover, including the tools needed, removal, cleaning, reinstallation, wiring, and testing.
Driving in cities and crowded suburbs always poses parking problems. You are lucky if you find a parking space large enough to maneuver your car into. More often than not, parking spaces are so tight that bumps to the front and rear of your car are unavoidable. Sadly, most bumps result in broken tail lights, forcing you to replace them. If you want tips on how to replace a broken tail light, follow these steps:
- Prepare the materials needed to replace a broken tail light. You will need a Phillips screwdriver; a socket and ratchet may also be used. Purchase a new tail light and turn-signal cover set to replace the broken ones. These can be bought from your local auto parts dealer. Place your order early, because stores may run out of stock; these items sell quickly. When buying the lights, identify your car’s model and body style first so the dealer can find an exact match.
- Locate the tail light mechanism in your car’s trunk. Lift the trunk cover and you will find the light connections right behind the tail light. You may need a flashlight to see the mechanism clearly. Trace the wire fittings so you know where to connect the new bulb.
- Disconnect the broken tail light. Using a Phillips screwdriver, loosen the screws attaching the broken tail light or cover to its mechanism. Remember to turn the screwdriver counterclockwise. If the screwdriver does not fit the screw heads, use a socket and ratchet instead. Put the screws in a container so you don’t misplace them.
- Brush off dust, rust, and corroded parts from the assembly. Use a clean, unused paintbrush to remove dirt. Then dampen a clean cloth with a little oil and use it to wipe the tail light mechanism to prevent further corrosion.
- Replace the tail light or cover with the new one. Put the screws back in place, making sure the light is properly aligned. You will know it is not installed properly if the cover does not fit or snap into place. Be careful when screwing the tail light back in, and avoid knocking the bulb lest it break.
- Test the tail light by having someone turn on the turn-signal switch. If the light comes on, it is installed correctly. If not, something is wrong with the installation, so check and reinstall it.
- Make sure the electrical wiring to the tail light is properly arranged. If the wiring is not arranged correctly, there is a good chance that your car’s electrical system will suffer a short circuit.
Replacing a broken tail light on your own can save you money because you won’t need to hire a mechanic. Still, equip yourself with a blueprint layout of your car’s mechanism so you won’t go blank when you start dismantling the assembly. If you lack knowledge in this area, however, you should hire an auto repair professional who is experienced with your car’s assembly.
Replace a broken tail light or turn-signal cover
By Howtodotips
Step-by-step instructions for replacing a broken tail light or turn-signal cover, including the tools needed, removal, cleaning, reinstallation, wiring, and testing.