How to Replace a Taillight on a Ford Ranger 2000

The 2000 Ranger's taillight bulb doubles as the turn-signal bulb. If your taillight bulb is out, you'll be unable to properly alert drivers behind you of a turn or that you are applying your brakes. For this reason, it's important to replace a faulty taillight as soon as possible. The Ranger's taillight bulb, also called a stop-light bulb or brake-light bulb, is mounted within the rear-lens assembly.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Bulb 3157
• Gloves or towel

Instructions

1. Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws from the exterior portion of the taillight assembly. These are visible when viewing the corner of the assembly.

2. Lower the tailgate. Inspect the interior area of the taillight assembly. You'll find two more screws. Remove them to disconnect the taillight assembly.

3. Gently pull the taillight assembly out of place. On the rear, you'll find the taillight bulbs sockets. The top bulb is the taillight. The bottom bulb is the backup lamp. Grasp the top socket, turn it counterclockwise, and pull it out of the taillight assembly.

4. The bulb is spring-loaded in the socket; gently push the bulb in, turn it to the left about 1/8 of a turn (all it will go) and pull it straight out of the socket.

5. Align the tabs on the the new bulb with the slots in the socket, push it into the socket and turn it gently to the right. Wear gloves or wrap the top of the bulb in a hand towel. Do not touch the glass; this can cause premature failure of the bulb.

6. Re-insert the socket into the assembly. Turn it from left-to-right to secure it. Re-position the assembly in the corner of the bed. Support it with your hand and tighten the four screws.