Replacing a tail light bulb is a task you can do yourself in about 15 minutes with no special tools
A burned-out tail light is a safety issue — other drivers need to see when you brake — and it's also illegal in most places. The good news is that replacing the bulb yourself costs between $5 and $15 for the bulb itself, takes less time than a trip to a repair shop, and requires only a screwdriver or your hands, depending on your car's design.
The process is straightforward: you access the bulb from inside your trunk or from behind the tail light assembly, twist or pull out the old bulb, and insert the new one. The exact steps depend on your vehicle's make and model, but the basic principle is the same across nearly all cars.
Key Takeaways
- Most tail light bulbs cost between $5 and $15 and are available at auto parts stores, grocery stores, and online retailers.
- You'll need to know your vehicle's year, make, and model to buy the correct bulb type — the wrong bulb won't fit or work properly.
- Some cars require you to remove the entire tail light assembly from outside; others let you access the bulb from inside the trunk.
- The bulb twists counterclockwise to remove and clockwise to install, or pulls straight out depending on the design.
- If the new bulb doesn't light up, the issue may be a blown fuse or a wiring problem rather than the bulb itself.
Finding the correct bulb for your vehicle
The bulb type varies by car. A 2015 Honda Civic uses a different bulb than a 2020 Ford F-150, and using the wrong one means it won't fit the socket or won't produce the right brightness. Your owner's manual lists the exact bulb type, or you can search online using your vehicle's year, make, and model plus the words "tail light bulb."
When you search or visit an auto parts store, you'll see bulb numbers like 1156, 7440, or 3157. These numbers identify the bulb's size, base type, and wattage. Write down the number from your manual or search result before you shop, so you buy the right one the first time.
Auto parts stores like AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA all stock common tail light bulbs and can look up the correct type if you give them your vehicle information. Many also offer installation in-store for a small fee if you'd rather not do it yourself.
Accessing the tail light bulb from inside the trunk
On many sedans and hatchbacks, you can reach the tail light bulb without removing anything from outside. Open your trunk and look at the inside wall where the tail light is located. You'll see either a plastic panel or a rubber gasket covering the back of the light assembly.
If there's a plastic panel, it usually twists counterclockwise or pops out with gentle pressure. If there's a rubber gasket, peel it back carefully. Once you've exposed the back of the assembly, you'll see the bulb holder — a plastic socket with wires attached — sticking out from the assembly.
Grip the bulb holder and twist it counterclockwise about a quarter turn. The entire holder will come free, and the bulb will still be inside it. Pull the bulb straight out of the holder, insert the new bulb, and twist the holder clockwise back into the assembly. Replace the panel or gasket, and you're done.
Removing the tail light assembly from outside
Some vehicles, particularly trucks and older cars, require you to remove the entire tail light assembly from the outside. Open your trunk or tailgate and look for bolts or screws on the inside edge of the tail light. These are usually Phillips-head screws or small bolts that hold the assembly to the car's body.
Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove these fasteners — typically there are two to four of them. Once they're out, gently pull the assembly away from the car. You may need to wiggle it slightly to clear any clips or brackets. Be careful not to pull too hard; there are wires attached to the back.
Once the assembly is free, you'll see the bulb holder on the back. Twist it counterclockwise to remove it, pull out the old bulb, insert the new one, and twist the holder back in clockwise. Slide the assembly back into place, line up the bolt holes, and tighten the fasteners. Make sure the assembly sits flush against the car body before you fully tighten.
Testing the new bulb and troubleshooting
Before you close the trunk, test the new bulb. Have someone stand behind the car while you turn on the headlights and press the brake pedal. Both the tail light and brake light should illuminate. If the new bulb doesn't light up, turn off the car and check that the bulb is fully seated in the holder and the holder is fully twisted in.
If the bulb still doesn't work after you've reseated it, the problem may be a blown fuse rather than the bulb itself. Your owner's manual shows the location of the fuse box and which fuse controls the tail lights. A blown fuse looks dark or has a broken wire visible inside. If you find a blown fuse, replace it with one of the same amperage rating — the number is printed on the fuse itself.
If the fuse is intact and the new bulb still doesn't light, there may be a wiring or connector issue that requires a mechanic's attention. This is less common, but it can happen if water has corroded the connections or if there's a break in the wiring harness.
Buying the right bulb and avoiding common mistakes
The most common mistake is buying the wrong bulb type. Always verify the number before you buy. If you're shopping in person, bring your owner's manual or a photo of the bulb number from your manual on your phone.
Another mistake is forcing the bulb into the holder or the holder into the assembly. If something doesn't twist smoothly or slide in easily, stop and check that you have the right bulb and that you're turning it in the correct direction. Forcing it can break the plastic socket or damage the bulb.
When you install the new bulb, handle it by the base, not the glass. Oils from your skin can cause the bulb to overheat and burn out prematurely. If you do touch the glass, wipe it clean with a dry cloth before installation.
When to replace both tail lights at once
Tail light bulbs are designed to last several years, but they don't all burn out at the same time. If one side has burned out, the other side may be close behind. Some people choose to replace both bulbs at the same time to avoid a second trip to the store and a second repair in a few months.
This is a personal choice and not necessary, but it can save time and frustration. If you decide to do it, follow the same steps for the other side. The process is identical, and you'll have fresh bulbs on both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tail light is burned out or if it's a fuse?
Turn on your headlights and have someone look at both tail lights. If one side is completely dark and the other is bright, the dark side's bulb is likely burned out. If both sides are dark, it's probably a blown fuse. Check the fuse box using your owner's manual to confirm.
Can I use any bulb as long as it fits?
No. The bulb number determines the brightness, base type, and wattage. Using the wrong bulb can cause it to be too dim, too bright, or to overheat and burn out quickly. Always use the bulb type specified in your owner's manual.
What if I can't find the bulb holder when I look inside the trunk?
Your vehicle may require removal of the entire tail light assembly from outside. Check your owner's manual for the location of the fasteners, or search online for a video specific to your car's year, make, and model. Many manufacturers post installation guides that show exactly where to look.
Do I need to disconnect the battery before replacing a tail light bulb?
No. Tail light bulbs operate on low voltage and pose no shock risk. You don't need to disconnect the battery or turn off the car, though it's a good idea to turn off the headlights to avoid confusion while you work.
How long does a tail light bulb usually last?
Most incandescent tail light bulbs last between three and five years, depending on how often you drive and how much you use the brakes. LED bulbs, which are becoming more common, last significantly longer — often 10 years or more.