The Fix-It Discussion Panel: Head/Tail Lights Out

If you enjoy the feeling of being a safe and independent driver, then you probably wish that you could deal with more of the everyday issues that a driver may experience. This series will give you information on how to repair common car problems, meaning you can drive in the knowledge that if you experience trouble, you should be able to repair it on your own.
 
Over the series, you will learn how to replace a car window regulator, a car door handle, a leaky radiator and even a side view mirror. Opening The Fix It Discussion Panel is an article about what you can do if your car headlights or tail lights are not working.
 
The Dangers of Faulty Car Lights
 
When you’re driving, it is important you are able to see as much as you possibly can. This means you can anticipate hazards and act accordingly. Not only is this the case, but you need to ensure that other drivers can see you, so that they know your position on the road and how this affects the way that they should be driving.
 
If you find that one of your lights is faulty, you need to know that you can deal with it right away. Not only is this a safety issue, but a fault light is also illegal. Fixing it yourself is a quick, inexpensive solution and isn’t too difficult to complete without professional help.
 
How to: A Step by Step Guide
 

1. Ensure you know the type of bulb required. This is useful to find out before you are in trouble so that if anything happens, you know exactly what to reach for.
2. Find out where your bulb holder is located. You should find that there are three wires attached to it.

Picture by autorepair.about.com

3. Next, you must take off the harnessing that attaches the wires to the plug holder. How you do this will depend on the type of device that your vehicle has; some unscrew while others simple pull away.
4. Now you should find that you are able to lift the car light bulb out of the holder.
5. You are ready to add the new bulb. You should ensure you do not touch it with your hands, as there is a chance that any oil that is on your skin could be damaging to the light. Hold it with a clean tissue or towel before inserting it into the headlight and making sure you have pushed it in completely.

Picture by autorepair.about.com

6. Finally, you should put everything back in place and ensure it is working properly. If not, then repeat the above steps carefully to ensure you have done everything properly.

 
A New Skill
 
With these tips, you should have everything you need to ensure you’re able to replace your car headlights on your own, without having to call for help.
 
In the next guide, we will explore how to replace a side view mirror.