How to Replace Tail Lights
A burned-out tail light can not only be a safety hazard, but can also be cause for a police citation. While many people go for months without working tail lights, there is no need to avoid replacing them. You can replace tail lights just like you would replace a burned-out bulb in a lighting fixture---it's just about that easy.
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Instructions
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How to Replace Tail Lights
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1
Open the trunk (for a car).
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2
Remove the access panel that is in the back of the trunk, by the tail lights. You may need a flat or Phillip's screwdriver for this.
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3
Turn the bulb housing a quarter turn and pull. The housing will come straight out.
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4
Remove and replace the bulb.
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5
Open the rear hatch (for an SUV or truck).
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6
Undo the screw on the side of the tail light and the whole lens will pull out.
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7
On the back of the lens you can identify which bulb is out. Remove and replace the bulb.
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1
Tips & Warnings
In SUVs and trucks, the screws can be hard to find. Never try to remove a bulb without first removing the screw.
Most emissions/inspections stations will change out bulbs and only charge you for the price of the new bulb.
Chevy SUV and trucks of certain years have an electrical circuit board inside the tail light. Replacing the bulb won't do any good; you have to replace the whole circuit board.
