Tail lights are an essential part of your Honda’s safety system, allowing other drivers to see your vehicle clearly, especially when you're driving at night or in low visibility conditions. Over time, tail lights can burn out, crack, or get damaged, requiring replacement. Fortunately, replacing tail lights in your Honda is a straightforward task that most vehicle owners can do themselves with the right tools and a bit of know-how.
If you're unsure about how to replace your Honda’s tail lights, or if you need help sourcing the correct parts, Glakes Honda West can assist you with both guidance and quality replacement parts.
- Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts
Before starting, make sure you have all the tools and parts you need. For a typical tail light replacement, you will need:
- A new tail light bulb or tail light assembly (depending on the issue)
- A screwdriver (typically Phillips or flathead)
- A socket wrench and sockets
- Replacement fuses (if necessary)
- Electrical contact cleaner (optional)
If you’re replacing the entire tail light assembly, make sure you’ve purchased the correct replacement part designed for your Honda model. You can get the right parts from your local Honda dealership or Glakes Honda West.
- Open the Trunk or Hatchback
In most Honda models, tail lights are accessed from inside the trunk or hatchback. Open the trunk or hatch to access the rear area where the tail light housing is located. You may need to remove any carpeting or trim panels that cover the tail light assembly. Use a screwdriver or trim tool to gently remove these panels without damaging them.
- Remove the Fasteners or Screws
Once you’ve gained access to the tail light assembly, locate the fasteners or screws that hold the assembly in place. Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the screws or bolts securing the tail light housing. Keep these fasteners in a safe place so you can reuse them when reassembling.
- Disconnect the Electrical Wiring
After removing the fasteners, carefully pull the tail light assembly away from the body of the car. Be cautious not to damage the wiring. You’ll see a connector that powers the tail light bulbs. Press the tab on the connector to disconnect the wiring from the tail light assembly.
Take note of how the connector is connected to the assembly, as you will need to reconnect it to the new tail light later.
- Remove the Old Tail Light Bulbs
Once the assembly is removed, you will have access to the tail light bulbs. Depending on your model, the bulbs might twist or pull out of their sockets. Gently remove the old bulbs by twisting them counterclockwise or pulling them straight out, depending on the type of bulb. Inspect the bulb to see if it’s broken, burnt out, or discolored.
If only the bulb is faulty, you can replace it without replacing the entire assembly. Simply purchase the correct replacement bulb and insert it into the socket.
- Install the New Tail Light Bulb or Assembly
If you’re only replacing the bulb, insert the new bulb into the socket by gently twisting it into place. Be sure to handle the new bulb carefully to avoid breaking it or getting oils from your skin on the glass. If you're replacing the entire tail light assembly, connect the wiring to the new assembly by pressing the connector into place.
Once connected, carefully position the tail light assembly back into the housing and align it with the screw holes.
- Secure the Tail Light Assembly
Use your screwdriver or socket wrench to secure the tail light assembly with the fasteners you removed earlier. Tighten the screws or bolts until they are snug, but avoid overtightening, as this can crack the plastic housing.
- Test the New Tail Light
Before closing the trunk or hatchback, turn on your vehicle and test the new tail light to ensure it’s working properly. Have a friend or family member press the brake pedal or turn on the headlights to check the functionality of the tail light, brake light, and turn signals.
If everything is functioning correctly, you're ready to finish the installation.
- Reassemble the Interior Trim
Once you’ve confirmed that the new tail light is working, carefully replace any carpeting, panels, or trim that you removed to access the tail light. Ensure everything is securely reattached and that no parts are left loose.
If you’re unsure about which replacement parts to use or would rather leave the job to professionals, visit Glakes Honda West for assistance. They can help you find the right tail light parts for your specific Honda model and perform the replacement for you.
Replacing the tail lights on your Honda is a simple DIY task that can improve both the safety and appearance of your vehicle. Whether you’re replacing just the bulb or the entire tail light assembly, this guide should help you complete the job with confidence.