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Tail Light Bulb Replacement
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 2 - 24 hours depending on mechanic availability
What does a tail light bulb do?
Tail light bulbs are mounted on each corner at the rear of a vehicle, generally either as a separate unit outside the tail light cluster, or within the cluster itself. The light units are usually illuminated by a single element bulb, which is clear or as a combination with the brake light element.
How does a tail light bulb work?
Tail lights come on once the circuit is connected by the driver using the lights switch. The power then either goes through a relay or body control module to switch them on.
At the same time, the front side lights will also come on.
Typical symptoms that require tail light to be replaced.
- With some models you may get a bulb out warning on the dashboard
- You are advised during a routine service
- The vehicle fails the MOT on a faulty tail light.
- You are advised verbally by someone, maybe even a police officer!
What happens during a tail light bulb replacement?
Changing tail light bulbs is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the faulty light unit, fuses, wires, sockets and the bulb.
- If necessary, replace the faulty tail light bulb.
- Advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
- Test the light(s) again to ensure they function correctly.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your tail light bulb to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the bulb(s)
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Tail light bulb replacement
Combined brake/tail light bulb replacement
Associated repairs
Sidelight bulb replacement
Headlamp bulb replacement - high beam (one)
Headlamp bulb replacement - low beam (one)
Headlamp bulbs replacement - low beam (both)
Headlamp bulbs replacement - high beam (both)
Xenon/HID headlamp bulb replacement (one)
Xenon/HID headlamp bulbs replacement (both)
How much does it cost to have a sidelight bulb replaced?
The cost of a sidelight bulb replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the sidelight bulb doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.