How to Replace the Tail Lamp on a 2001 Saturn SL

The tail lamps in a 2001 Saturn SL are designed to illuminate when the headlamps are turned on to provide other drivers with a better view of the vehicle during inclement or nighttime conditions. The tail lamps also illuminate to twice their normal brightness when the brake pedal is depressed. This alerts other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down. As a final function, the tail lamps blink when the turn signal lever is depressed, alerting other drivers the vehicle is changing direction. When the tail lamps become cracked or damaged, they must be replaced. Replacement tail lamps are available from auto parts stores and automotive salvage yards.

Things You'll Need

• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 3/8-inch metric socket set
• Replacement tail lamp

Instructions

1. Place the vehicle's transmission in "Park" (automatic) or first gear (manual). Apply the parking brake, and open the hood.

2. Peel back the trunk liner to expose the tail lamp mounting nuts and electrical connectors. Disconnect the electrical connector/bulb receptacles from the tail lamp by turning them 90 degrees counterclockwise and pulling out the bulb/receptacle units with the wires still attached. Remove the tail lamp mounting nuts with a 3/8" ratchet and a 13 mm metric socket.

3. Remove the damaged tail lamp from the vehicle, and install the new tail lamp. Reinstall the mounting nuts inside the trunk, using the 3/8" ratchet and a 13 mm metric socket. Reconnect the connector/bulb receptacles by placing them in the tail lamp and turning them 90 degrees clockwise, until they lock into place.

4. Turn on the headlights, and verify that the tail lamps illuminate properly.

References

• "Haynes Repair Manual: Saturn S-Series: 1991 thru 2002"; John Haynes and Mark Ryan; 2003