How to replace lights for license plate?
Replacing the lights for your license plate is a simple yet essential maintenance task that ensures your vehicle remains road-legal and visible at night. At Kevin's Autos, we’ve helped countless customers with this quick fix, and today, we’re sharing a step-by-step guide to help you do it yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-timer, this guide will walk you through the process with ease.
Why Replacing License Plate Lights Is Important
License plate lights are a legal requirement in most areas, as they ensure your license plate is visible to other drivers and law enforcement at night. Driving with a burned-out license plate light can result in fines or warnings. Additionally, it’s a simple repair that can save you from unnecessary trouble on the road.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials to make the process smooth:
- A replacement bulb (check your vehicle’s manual for the correct type)
- A screwdriver (usually Phillips or flathead, depending on your car)
- Gloves (optional, to avoid touching the bulb with bare hands)
- A clean cloth or rag
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing License Plate Lights
Follow these steps to replace your license plate lights efficiently:
- Step 1: Turn off your car. For safety, ensure your vehicle is turned off and the lights are switched off before starting.
- Step 2: Locate the license plate light housing. The light housing is typically located above or on either side of the license plate.
- Step 3: Remove the light housing cover. Use a screwdriver to carefully unscrew or pry off the cover, depending on your vehicle’s design. Be gentle to avoid damaging the housing.
- Step 4: Remove the old bulb. Gently twist or pull the old bulb out of its socket. If it’s stuck, wiggle it slightly to loosen it.
- Step 5: Install the new bulb. Insert the replacement bulb into the socket. If you’re using gloves, this will prevent oils from your skin from shortening the bulb’s lifespan.
- Step 6: Test the new bulb. Turn on your car’s lights to ensure the new bulb is working properly.
- Step 7: Reattach the light housing cover. Secure the cover back in place using the screws or clips you removed earlier.
Tips for a Successful Replacement
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Always check your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and bulb types.
- Replace both license plate bulbs at the same time to ensure consistent brightness.
- If the new bulb doesn’t work, check the fuse associated with the license plate lights.
- Dispose of the old bulb responsibly, as some bulbs may contain small amounts of hazardous materials.
When to Seek Professional Help
While replacing license plate lights is generally straightforward, there are instances where professional assistance might be necessary. If the light housing is damaged, the wiring is faulty, or you’re unsure about the process, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos. Our experienced technicians can handle the repair quickly and efficiently, saving you time and hassle.
Conclusion
Replacing your license plate lights is a quick and easy task that can save you from potential fines and ensure your vehicle remains safe and compliant. With the right tools and this step-by-step guide, you’ll have your lights replaced in no time. If you encounter any issues or prefer professional assistance, Kevin’s Autos is here to help. Contact us today for all your car maintenance and repair needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change the number plate light?
To remove the bulbs, simply pull gently. Try not to pull too hard, and if they don't come out straight away, be patient. Now you should be able to insert the replacement bulbs. As with all bulbs, take care to handle them gently as the glass of the bulb is often quite thin and delicate, and therefore easily damaged.
How do you replace the license plate light?
Steps
- Get new tag lights that are compatible with your vehicle.
- Loosen the screws on the lights' covers if your vehicle has them.
- Rotate the bases of the lights from underneath if they're attached to the bumper.
- Pull the light bulbs straight out.
- Push the new tag lights into the slots.
Is it easy to change a license plate light bulb?
Unscrew the licence plate and the bracket to access the light easier. Lever out the licence plate lamp with a screwdriver. In most cases there is a notch next to the lamp for exactly this purpose; in some cases the lamp does not have to be levered out but unscrewed instead. Then disconnect the power connector.
Is it illegal to drive without a license plate light?
Law enforcement officers have the authority to make traffic stops if they observe any equipment violations, including issues with license plate lights. If you are pulled over for a license plate light violation, the officer may issue a citation or warning and potentially require you to fix the issue.
How much to replace a number plate light?
The price of car parts within the auto Number plate bulb category ranges from £5 to £26, depending on the vehicle type, manufacturer, and product specifications.
How do you replace the license plate lights?
Replacing Lights from the Outside
- Get new tag lights that are compatible with your vehicle.
- Loosen the screws on the lights' covers if your vehicle has them.
- Rotate the bases of the lights from underneath if they're attached to the bumper.
- Pull the light bulbs straight out.
- Push the new tag lights into the slots.
What happens if your license plate light is out?
Having a burned-out license plate light is a valid reason for police to pull you over. However, it is not a valid reason on its own for an officer to search your vehicle. If you are in this situation, the officer may ask to search your vehicle. If you say yes, they are legally allowed to search your car.
Can you get a ticket for a broken license plate light?
In California, it is generally required for vehicles to have functioning license plate lights. If one of your license plate lights is out, it may potentially be a violation of the law, as it can impact the visibility of your license plate, especially during nighttime or low-light conditions.
Can you replace your own license plate light?
To protect the car's paint from scratches, carefully cover the plastic license plate with a cloth. Next, detach the wire harness from the license plate light housing. This will expose the bulb, which can be easily replaced with a new one.
How much does it cost to replace a license plate light?
How Much Does a License Plate Light Replacement Cost? Aftermarket license plate lights can cost anywhere between $2 and $250 depending on light source, color, finish, recommended use, and series. License plate light sets usually cost more than individual license plate light replacements.
