How to Replace a Ford Taurus Tail Light
by Jody L. CampbellThe Ford Taurus taillight is a dual-element bulb that provides lighting to the brake light as well as the taillight. Having one or both of the lights out can be a safety hazard and could result in a citation by a police officer. The Ford Taurus has been a mid-sized staple to the Ford Motor Company and has experienced a few different generational designs. This includes access to the taillights but, for the most part, it has remained somewhat comparable.
Step 1
Open the trunk and locate the rear luggage compartment scuff plate covering the very rear of the trunk interior. If applicable, remove the cargo net and retaining wing nuts on the side you need to replace the bulb. The scuff plate (depending on the generation) may have a variety of retaining devices. Removing them should not be overly complicated. The older generation had visible wing nuts that unscrewed from the back of the taillight assembly. The newer generation can have screw push-pin retainers or pop-out retainers. Use a screwdriver to remove the retainers.
Step 2
Pull back the cargo area carpeting covering the rear of the taillight assembly. This will reveal the three to four retaining nuts securing the taillight assembly studs. Older models may have three retaining nuts, while the newer style has four.
Step 3
Remove the retaining nuts by turning them counterclockwise with the ratchet and a socket.
Step 4
Pull the taillight assembly away from the body at the rear of the Taurus. Wiggle and pry the assembly outward. A seated guide pin will create a level of difficulty, but perseverance will pay off.
Step 5
Locate the taillight bulb socket on the back of the taillight assembly and turn the socket assembly 1/3 turn counterclockwise to release the socket from the taillight assembly.
Step 6
Pull the bulb out of the socket and insert the new bulb replacement until it snaps into place.
Step 7
Test the bulb before reinstalling the bulb to the taillight assembly and the taillight assembly back onto the Taurus.
Step 8
Reinstall by reversing the produce.
References
Things You'll Need
- 3/8-inch drive ratchet 3/8-inch drive socket set Flathead screwdriver Phillips head screwdriver Replacement bulb
Writer Bio
Jody L. Campbell spent over 15 years as both a manager and an under-car specialist in the automotive repair industry. Prior to that, he managed two different restaurants for over 15 years. Campbell began his professional writing career in 2004 with the publication of his first book.
