How To Replace A Brake Light
Posted on: 24 February 2015
Operating a car with broken or burnt out brake lights can be extremely dangerous for the driver and other cars operating around it. A brake light sends a signal to other drivers that the driver has applied the brake and is slowing down. A broken light could also cause a major accident as it will not let other drivers know when the brakes have been hit. Here is a simple step by step guide on how to change a broken brake light.
For this job, you will require the following tools and parts:
- Screwdriver
- Replacement bulbs
- The help of a friend who can assist you
Step 1
Use a screwdriver to unscrew the taillight lenses that cover the lights. In some cars, the screws could be hidden underneath the carpet of the trunk, so you may have to gently pull this back before you are able to unscrew them. Make sure that you store the screws in a safe location as you will need them to reassemble them later. Other cars don't have screws and may require you to gain access to the lights through the trunk.
Step 2
Once the screws are completely removed, you are free to pop out the lens assembly and remove the brake light socket. More often than not, you will have to twist and pull the socket to pop it out. Make sure that you don't apply too much force as you could break the socket or bulb.
Step 3
Remove the burnt out bulb by twisting, screwing, or pulling. Once the bulb is out, check to make sure that the connector is not corroded or burnt out, which could cause potential electrical problems. Do not install a new bulb into a socket that is corroded or burnt.
Step 4
You can now install the new bulb by screwing it into the position where the old one was removed. Make sure the bulb is tightened into place before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5
Put the assembly back into place and pop the socket back into place. Once the assembly is back in the correct position, you can screw back in the screws using the screwdriver.
Step 6
Test the brake lights to make sure they are functioning properly. Start the car and then apply the brakes, while a friend watches the back of the car to make sure that the brake lights lit up and are functioning correctly.
If the tips outlined above do not correct the problem then it could be an indication that the car has a much larger electrical problem. Larger electrical problems should only be worked on by a professional mechanic to ensure that you avoid causing further damage to the car or potentially electrocuting yourself during the process. Call Cadwalader Service Centre, Inc. for all your automotive repairs.
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