How to Change Taillights on a Chevrolet Lumina

One of the most important safety features built into today’s automobiles is the nighttime illumination system. The headlights help you see where you are going and the taillights help others to see you. A burned out taillight makes it difficult for other drivers to see you and react accordingly. You may not immediately notice a burned out taillight so as a safety precaution it is important to occasionally check the lights before driving. If you find one is burned out it will be necessary to replace it. But don’t despair; it is an easy job to handle, even if you are not mechanically inclined.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Taillight Bulb Size 3057

How to Change the Taillights on a 1996 Chevrolet Lumina Sedan

1. Turn on your taillights by turning the headlight switch, located on the dash to the left of the steering wheel, clockwise two notches. This may be done with the ignition switch off. Walk to the rear of the car and observe which taillight bulb is burned out. Turn off the headlights.

2. Walk to the rear of the vehicle. Unlock the trunk and open it. If the trunk is equipped with the optional convenience net, remove it by unhooking it from the wing nut.

3. Remove the wing nut inside the trunk which is directly behind the taillights. Set the wing nut aside. Pull the carpet away from the rear of the car, which will reveal two additional wing nuts. Unscrew these two wing nuts, remove them and set them aside.

4. Pull the taillight assembly carefully away from the body of the car. Note which bulb needs to be replaced, press the tab and turn the socket counter-clockwise. Pull the socket from the assembly.

5. Pull the bulb out of the socket. Discard the burned out bulb.

6. Push the new replacement bulb into the socket. Replace the socket back into the taillight assembly and lock into place by turning clockwise.

7. Insert the assembly back into its housing. Screw the two wing nuts back into place until finger tight. Replace the carpet. Screw the remaining wing nut into place. Reattach the convenience net, if applicable. Close the trunk.

Tips & Warnings

• Taillight bulbs on the Lumina push in and pull out. Do not twist the bulb or it may break.

Who Can Help Sponsored