Installing a Tail Light Lens Kit in 4 Quick Steps
Tail lights are an essential part of any vehicle. These colored plastic lenses perform different functions, including braking and signaling when making turns. Just like any car part, tail lights are also prone to damage over the years. Road debris, fender benders, and parking mishaps are some of the most common factors why you need to replace your tail lights' lens. Here is a guide to help you install a new tail light lens kit on your vehicle. It may take you about an hour to finish the installation project.
Required skill level: Intermediate
Needed tools and materials:
Preparing for the task
If the tails light assembly's screws are not visible from the outside, open your vehicle's tailgate, rear hatch door, or trunk lid to access the tail light assembly's back portion. Usually, an interior trunk trim panel is used to cover the tail light assembly. Remove the trunk trim panel to expose the tail light's back side. Disconnect all the bulb sockets from the tail light assembly, and apply appropriate pressure on the sockets to avoid damaging the bulbs.
Removing the tail light assembly
Depending on your vehicle, check the type of retaining screw used to secure the tail light assembly. If the retaining screw is already rusted, apply some lubricant on it to loosen the screw. Make sure to wipe drips of lubricant from the vehicle to avoid damaging the paint. Clean the rust from the retaining screw before removing them. You might need a socket wrench, Phillips-head screwdriver, or Torx-head screwdriver to unfasten the retaining screw. Once the screws are removed, lift the tail light assembly from the vehicle.
Cleaning the tail light assembly
Remove the broken tail light lens and use a brush to remove any loose debris, rust, and any broken bits from the tail light assembly. Apply light strokes when brushing off debris to avoid damaging the tail light bulbs. Make sure that the entire assembly is free from dirt and debris before installing the new tail light lens.
Installing the new tail light lens
Carefully align the new tail light lens with the tail light assembly's screw holes. Once the holes are lined up, apply the appropriate torque when securing the tail light lens' retaining screws. Attach all the bulb sockets on the tail light assembly before mounting it on your vehicle's rear. Secure the assembly with retain screws and re-attach the trunk trim back into place.