How to check and replace exterior lighting

Checking all of the exterior lighting will allow you to maintain proper operation, and allow for a safer vehicle. Here’s a series of checks along with how to change certain bulbs on your car.

When checking your lights, you may have to turn on the key and for safety sake when checking the reverse lights, apply the emergency brake.

First turn the headlight switch to the full on position and turn on the hazard switch.

Next apply the emergency brake, and put the car in reverse.

Now you can do a walk around, starting with the rear lights.

You can compare side to side which lights are working.Tail lights, flashers, and back-up lights.

Don’t forget to check the license plate lights.

Side marker lights on front and rear bumpers.

Front hazard/marker lights and low beam head lights

Flip the switch to activate the high beam headlights.

Have someone hold the brakes and check the brake lights.

Two types of bulb holders are individual or clusters of bulbs

Individual holders usually turn ¼ turn to remove and clusters are held in by a thumb screw.

Bulbs come in a variety of types and wattages. If you struggle to find the correct type, then ask someone at your local parts store for help.

If you find a bulb that is not working, then try to remove it and identify what type of bulb it is.

Replacement of a turn signal bulb.

Locate a turn signal, go to the back side and twist the holder.

Twist and pull out the bulb, this one is an amber bulb with two contacts. Replace the bulb and re-test.

Replacement of a head light bulb

Locate the bulb to be replaced

Find the back of the lamp and twist and pull out.

Most new headlights today are halogen type bulbs. When handling for installation, do not touch the glass part of the bulb.

Note:

Oil from your skin creates a hot spot on the bulb while working, which could shorten the life of the bulb.

Recommendations:

Separate of this article, if you need more help when changing a bulb, you could receive help at no charge from your local parts store where you can purchase the proper bulb as well.