How to Change a Brake Light

Your brake lights illuminate whenever you press the brake pedal, so it’s not surprising that these bulbs burn out after many years. If you notice that one of your brake lights has gone out, you can either replace it yourself at home or stop by a certified Paintsville service center. Either way, replacing your tail lights is usually quick and easy! Learn how to change a brake light in the guide below from the service experts at Hutch Chevrolet GMC, Inc..

Steps to Replace Your Vehicle’s Brake Light

To learn how to change a brake light at home, just follow these simple steps:

1. Find Replacement Bulbs: First, find out what kind of replacement bulbs you need. Your owner’s manual should provide the correct bulb size and voltage for your Chevy, Buick, or GMC model.
2. Remove Tail Light Housing: Next, remove the colored lens to access the tail light bulbs. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to unscrew the cover and remove the burnt-out bulb.
3. Replace the Tail Light Bulb: Before installing a new bulb, apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the end. This should help to prevent corrosion and rust and make the bulb easier to remove next time. Screw in the new bulb and reattach the taillight housing. That’s it—you’ve just learned how to replace a brake light the DIY way!

What’s the Importance of Checking Your Tail Lights?

Before you can learn how to replace a brake light, you need to know when a tail light has gone out! If you don’t make a point of checking your tail lights, a broken tail light or burned out tail light can be easy to miss. Tail lights are crucial because they signal your intentions to other drivers — whether you’re slowing down, preparing to stop, or making a turn. Driving with a broken tail light can be dangerous and can result in a fine if you’re pulled over.

Find Expert Brake Light Service in Paintsville

Do you have any questions for our team about how to replace a brake light at home? The experienced technicians at Hutch Chevrolet GMC, Inc. are happy to share tips for how to replace a brake light yourself. If you’d rather leave the job to the professionals, schedule service at our service center near Salyersville. Contact us to ask us any questions you may have today!