Tail lights are an important component of your vehicle, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Over time, tail lights can become damaged, discolored, or simply outdated, which is when it’s time to change them out. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to change out your tail lights, so you can get your vehicle looking and functioning like new.
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and materials
Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials to make the job easier. The following items are recommended:
New tail lights
Screwdriver
Pliers
Wrench
Electrical tape
Step 2: Locate the tail lights
The first step in changing out your tail lights is to locate them. The tail lights are typically located at the rear of the vehicle and can be found on either side of the trunk or rear gate. Some vehicles have a plastic cover that needs to be removed to access the tail lights, while others have a simple bolt or screw that holds the tail lights in place.
Step 3: Remove the old tail lights
Once you’ve located the tail lights, the next step is to remove the old ones. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may need to use a screwdriver, pliers, or wrench to remove the bolts or screws that hold the tail lights in place. Once the bolts or screws are removed, you should be able to gently pull the tail lights away from the vehicle.
Step 4: Disconnect the wiring
Once the tail lights are removed, the next step is to disconnect the wiring. The wiring typically connects to the tail lights through a plug or socket, and you should be able to simply pull the plug or socket away from the tail lights to disconnect the wiring. If the plug or socket is difficult to remove, you may need to use pliers or a wrench to gently loosen it.
Step 5: Install the new tail lights
Once the wiring has been disconnected, the next step is to install the new tail lights. The new tail lights should have the same plug or socket as the old ones, which means that you can simply plug or socket them into the wiring. Once the wiring is connected, the next step is to mount the tail lights back into place using the bolts or screws you removed in Step 3.
Step 6: Test the tail lights
Once the new tail lights are installed, the next step is to test them to make sure they’re working properly. Turn on the lights and inspect the tail lights to make sure they’re emitting the right amount of light and that they’re functioning properly. If everything looks good, then you’re done.
In conclusion, changing out your tail lights is a relatively simple and straightforward process that can be done by most DIYers. By following these steps, you can replace your old, damaged, or outdated tail lights with new ones, ensuring that your vehicle looks and functions its best. Whether you’re changing out a single tail light or both of them, the process is the same, so you can get the job done quickly and easily.