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| How to Replace a Tail Light Cover |
| Replacing Tail Lights |
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Replacing a Broken Tail Light with a New Assembly
A broken tail light assembly, one that is cracked or damaged, can be replaced using some simple tools. It may not look simple, as all the newer cars today have hidden hardware that must be accessed from inside the trunk. The reason is safety and security. A thief can not steal your tail lights if they can't access the hardware that removes them.
1. Open the trunk of the new car and locate the plastic cover for the tail light access. It will be located right behind the tail light. Remove this cover by prying it off with a small screw driver or your fingers if possible.
2. Locate the wires running into the tail light. Remove the rubber backing (if any) and disconnect the wires. Also, remove the bulb from the mounting bracket. It will slide out backwards in most cases. On a 2006 Honda Accord 2-door, you can remove the bulbs with the wires attached. it is easier to just remove the bulbs.
3. Using a rachet, remove the two screws that attach the tail light harness to the frame of the car. These are located on either side and should be in plain sight.
4. Remove the molding around the edge of the trunk (if it interferes with or covers the tail light itself.
5. Place one hand on the outside of the tail light cover, then gently push the tail light out from the vehicle from the inside. If it resists, there may be more screws holding it in place. Locate these by feeling around the edge of the tail light. They should be along the sides of the frame of the tail light. Remove them with a screw driver.
6. Gently push and slide the tail light assembly out of the car.
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