How to replace a license plate light
Auto repair

How to replace a license plate light

License plate lights are designed to illuminate the license plate and license plates on your vehicle and make it easily visible to law enforcement. In many states, you can get a ticket for a burned out license plate light bulb. It…

License plate lights are designed to illuminate the license plate and license plates on your vehicle and make it easily visible to law enforcement. In many states, you can get a ticket for a burned out license plate light bulb. It is very important to replace a burnt out license plate light bulb as soon as possible to avoid a fine.

The license plate light uses a filament placed inside a glass bulb filled with an inert gas. When electricity is applied to the filament, it becomes very hot and emits visible light.

Lamps do not last forever and can fail for a number of reasons, the most common of which is filament failure during normal use. Other reasons for failure include leaks, where the bulb's atmospheric seals break and oxygen enters the bulb, and glass bulb breakage.

If you need a new license plate lamp, follow these steps to find out how to replace it.

Part 1 of 2: Remove the light bulb

Necessary materials

  • Free repair manuals from Autozone
  • Protective gloves
  • Chilton repair manuals (optional)
  • Safety glasses
  • Screwdriver

Step 1: Find your license plate light. The license plate light is located directly above the license plate.

Step 2. Determine Which Light Bulb Has Failed. Park the car and apply the emergency brake. Turn the ignition to the "Advanced" position and turn on the high beam headlights. Walk around the car to determine which license plate light has failed.

Step 3: Remove the license plate light cover. Loosen the screws securing the license plate light cover with a screwdriver.

Remove the license plate light cover.

  • Attention: You may need a small screwdriver to remove the cover.

Step 4: Remove the bulb. Remove the light bulb from the holder.

Part 2 of 2: Install the light bulb

Necessary materials

  • Protective gloves
  • License plate light bulb replacement
  • Safety glasses
  • Screwdriver

Step 1: Install a new light bulb. Install the new bulb in the holder and make sure it is in place.

  • FunctionsA: Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual to determine the correct bulb type for your particular vehicle.

Step 2: Complete the installation. Replace the license plate light cover and hold it in place.

Install the license plate light cover screws and tighten them with a screwdriver.

Step 3: Check the Light. Turn your car on to check if the license plate lights are fully working.

Replacing a license plate bulb requires a bit of time and know-how. However, if you prefer to entrust this task to a professional and not get your hands dirty, contact a certified mechanic, for example, from AvtoTachki, to replace the license plate light.

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