Utilizing a deep socket and ratchet, locate the nuts and remove them from the threaded studs.
In This Article...
Photo 2: Replace the assembly
Your young driver utilized the vehicle and then brought it back clean and full of gas. Isn’t it wonderful that he has grown into a mature adult? Oh, wait, you see the broken taillight, and he has “I’m not sure how it occurred. Is it time to stop by the body shop? No, you can complete this task with simple hand tools and the Internet.
A replacement taillight assembly is simple to locate. Just put “key in your preferred search engine. You’ll be astounded by the quantity of hits you receive. Most businesses sell inexpensive goods from abroad “counterfeit original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. If you don’t mind a “Make sure the seller lists it as a CAPA authorized aftermarket version. A CAPA-certified part is ensured to fit and function identically to the original. But don’t stop there with your quest. Numerous auto retailers have developed user-friendly websites where they provide OEM parts at steep discounts. (See “Dealer websites are listed below.) Before you purchase an aftermarket version, visit these dealer websites. In fact, we spent less on a genuine Honda taillight than we would have paid for an aftermarket one.
The two methods used by automakers to affix taillights to the body are different. Threaded studs inserted into the taillight are one technique. The sheet metal’s perforations are used to receive the studs, which are then tightened with nuts (Photo 1, top). See for the second approach “The below captive stud/socket technique
Once the taillight assembly has been unplugged, release the catch mechanism and twist to remove the lightbulb sockets. Since you already have everything apart, now is a good time to replace any bulbs that haven’t been changed in the last two years. After that, reassemble the new taillight after installing the sockets.
How can I fix a broken tail light cover?
Craft glue might work if your tail light cover simply has a crack in it. However, if the damage is more significant, you should use some lens repair tape to cover the exposed region. This is available at most auto parts retailers, including this dealership.
How much does a new tail light cover cost?
The average cost to replace a tail light cover ranges from $50 to $300, depending on whether you hire a mechanic or do it yourself.
Taxes, fees, and your specific make and model are not taken into account in this price range, which is based on national averages for all automobiles. Possible further requirements include the replacement of the tail light bulb. Use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator to get a more exact quote depending on your make, model, and location.
Cost at the Mechanic: $125 to $300
It only takes an hour to change a tail light cover, which is a reasonably simple procedure. Since the majority of coverings are made to last the lifetime of the car, you could never even require this service. That tail light cover won’t need to be replaced until it sustains damage, such as from an accident, UV rays, or harsh chemicals.
Is it simple to change the tail lights?
Fortunately, changing the tail light bulbs isn’t hard and shouldn’t take you more than 45 minutes to an hour. Be careful that newer models could be a little trickier to disassemble than older ones because there will be more wires.
Can you operate a vehicle with a damaged taillight cover?
It’s against the law to drive while your tail light is out. Every car must have two taillights that are functional. All tail light lenses must also be transparent. Additionally, they must be in good shape and be the original automobile manufacturer’s lenses.
Installing dark bulbs or lenses that render tail lights ineffective is another unlawful practice. Only tail lights with U.S. Department of Transportation certified bulbs should be installed on your vehicle.
Insurance coverage for damaged tail lights?
There are a few things you should ask yourself whether you instantly discover that your tail light is malfunctioning or whether you don’t until a police officer pulls you over to let you know about the problem.
What Caused the Damage to Your Tail Light?
When assessing if your insurance will pay for the repairs to your damaged tail light, you must first determine what caused the damage. Have you recently been in a car accident?
Your tail light may sustain damage in even a slight collision that makes it ineffective. There is a significant probability that your insurance coverage may pay the repairs if your tail light was damaged in a recognized accident. This makes it crucial to evaluate your car’s damage following any kind of collision.
Sometimes inadequate car maintenance rather than an accident results in a broken tail light. Unfortunately, the repairs to a broken tail light (or door dents, for that matter) brought on by carelessness or subpar maintenance are not covered by your insurance policy.
It is uncommon, but a fallen tree, storm debris, or other covered catastrophe could result in a shattered tail light. If your tail light was damaged in this manner and you have comprehensive auto insurance, you most likely have coverage for the cost of repairs.
What Type of Auto Insurance Do You Have?
From the absolute minimum of protection to extensive plans, auto insurance policies come in a wide range. For drivers to lawfully use their automobiles on public roads, the majority, if not all, states, demand a minimum level of coverage. The majority of the time, minimum coverage does not cover the cost of fixing damaged tail lights.
Collision insurance is frequently purchased by drivers as an additional degree of security. You probably won’t have to pay out of pocket to get the damage repaired if your tail light was shattered in an accident and you have collision coverage.
Finally, a few people decide to purchase a comprehensive auto insurance plan. Comprehensive auto insurance is frequently chosen by owners of high-end automobiles since it provides coverage for damage resulting not only from collisions but also from theft, vandalism, and even storms. The majority of the time, the expense of repairing a tail light that was damaged in a covered occurrence will be covered by your comprehensive auto policy.
Can you drive while your tail light is broken?
Driving with a damaged tail light is illegal. Two functional tail lights are a requirement for all vehicles. All tail light lenses must also be transparent. Additionally, they must come from the original automaker and look to be in good shape.
Additionally, installing dark lenses or bulbs that reduce the efficiency of tail lights is prohibited. Additionally, you should only use tail lights with U.S. Department of Transportation-approved bulbs.
What is the name of the plastic component of a tail light?
An add-on that shields your car’s tail light is a tail light cover. Once installed, it can prevent mud and moisture from getting near your tail light. Additionally, it can shield the tail light from twigs and rocks that could hurt the light.
O’Reilly modifies the tail lights?
While you wait, at no cost to you, our parts specialists can swiftly and easily change wiper blades because they are experts at changing headlamp and taillight bulbs.
AutoZone will they change a brake light?
Problems with the brake light switch or turn signals A replacement switch can be placed after you check the connection to the switch for corrosion or other problems and buy it at your neighborhood AutoZone.