Will AutoZone change my tail light bulb?

In most cases, AutoZone can help replace a tail light bulb, and staff in-store will often install a bulb you purchase there. Availability and exact service vary by location, so it pays to call ahead or ask at the counter.

What AutoZone offers for tail light bulb replacement

Here is how AutoZone typically handles tail light bulb replacement, including what you can expect when you visit and what you’ll need to know before you go.

• The store stocks replacement tail light bulbs for a wide range of vehicles, with common bulb types such as 194, 168, 2057, 3157, and similar sizes available.


• Staff can help you identify the correct bulb for your vehicle using their database and guidance from experienced associates.


• Many locations offer in-store installation assistance for bulbs purchased there, often at no extra charge or for a small service fee depending on the store policy.


• AutoZone can perform basic checks to confirm the bulb is the issue and may help troubleshoot related electrical concerns (fuse, wiring) if a bulb keeps failing.


• For tail lights that are part of a fully integrated LED assembly or an older vehicle with a sealed unit, replacement may require removing and replacing the entire light assembly or visiting a body shop.

In practice, you’ll usually be able to obtain the correct bulb quickly and have a staff member assist with the install if you’d like. For more complex lighting assemblies, expect a longer process or a referral to a specialist.

What to expect when you visit AutoZone

Before you head to the store, here’s what typically happens and what you should prepare for when seeking tail light bulb help.

• Call ahead or check the store’s bulb availability and installation policy for your specific vehicle and location.


• Bring your vehicle’s make, model, and year, and know the bulb type if you’ve already looked it up (or let staff determine it for you).


• Bulb installation, when offered, is usually quick for standard bulbs—often under 15–30 minutes if the bulb type is straightforward.


• Costs, if any, are typically minimal or waived when you purchase the bulb at the store; some locations may charge a small service fee for installation.


• If your tail light requires removing the interior trim or accessing the bulb socket from inside the trunk, you may be asked to confirm the approach and estimated time upfront.

Remember, policies vary by location and vehicle type. If your tail light uses an LED module or a sealed unit, a quick bulb swap may not be possible, and you’ll be advised on the best replacement route.

Do-it-yourself steps to replace a tail light bulb

If you prefer to handle the replacement yourself, here are general steps that apply to many cars. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and safety notes.

1. Park on a flat surface, turn off the engine, remove the keys, and engage the parking brake.


2. Open the trunk or tailgate to access the tail light assembly from the inside panel or trunk lining.


3. Locate and remove any screws or clips securing the tail light housing or access panel.


4. Access the bulb socket by twisting counterclockwise or pulling the socket straight out, depending on the design.


5. Twist or pull out the old bulb from the socket, handling the bulb by its base and avoiding touching the glass with bare fingers.


6. Insert the new bulb into the socket, ensuring it is seated firmly and oriented correctly.


7. Reinstall the socket, housing, and any interior panels, then test the lights before closing everything up.


8. If the new bulb doesn’t light, check the fuse, wiring, and connections, and consider seeking professional help if problems persist.

Note: Some modern vehicles use LED tail lights or sealed assemblies where individual bulbs cannot be replaced. In those cases, replacing the entire tail light unit may be necessary.

When AutoZone might not replace the bulb

There are scenarios where a hand-off to another service or a different approach is appropriate. Consider these guidelines:

• If the tail light is an LED module or part of a sealed assembly, a simple bulb swap may not be possible.


• If there is suspected damage to the wiring harness, fuse box, or body wiring, an electrical diagnostic may be needed before any replacement.


• Some vehicles require removing interior trim or the entire tail light assembly, which may be outside the scope of quick in-store service and require a repair shop or body shop visit.


• Policy differences by location mean some stores may offer limited installation assistance or charge a fee for tasks beyond basic bulb replacement.

In these cases, AutoZone staff can still guide you toward the correct parts and suggest the best next steps, including referrals to professional services if needed.

Summary

AutoZone can be a convenient option for replacing a tail light bulb, especially for standard bulbs. Many stores stock common bulb types and can assist with installation when you buy the bulb there. For complex tail lights, LED modules, or sealed assemblies, you may need to replace the entire unit or visit a professional shop. To avoid delays, call your local store to confirm availability, service options, and estimated time before you go. A quick bulb swap is often straightforward, but the right approach depends on your vehicle’s design and the store’s policies.

How much does it cost to change a tail light bulb?

A tail light bulb replacement can cost anywhere from $10 to $40 for a DIY job (parts only) to $50 to $190 or more at a repair shop, depending on parts, labor, and the vehicle's complexity. While basic bulbs are inexpensive, more complex LED bulbs can increase the price, and luxury or modern vehicles may require specialized diagnostics. 
This video explains the cost of replacing a tail light and the factors that influence it: 1mFordTechMakulocoYouTube · Aug 29, 2023
DIY (Do-it-yourself)

• Cost: Primarily the cost of the bulb, which typically ranges from $6 to $30. 
• Total: Can be as low as $10 if you buy a standard bulb. 
• Time: A few minutes. 
• Note: This is the cheapest option, as you only pay for the part and avoid labor costs. 

Professional service

• Cost: Typically $50 to $190 or more. 
• Labor: Mechanics may charge $10 to $20 for labor for a simple bulb replacement, but this can add up to more depending on the shop's rates. 
• Parts: Professional shops may use OEM bulbs, which can be more expensive, but prices can still vary. 
• Note: Some shops may include diagnostics and other services, which will increase the final cost. 

You can watch this video to see a professional mechanic explain how much it costs to replace a tail light: 58sLearnToDIY360YouTube · Jan 19, 2025
Factors that increase cost

• Complexity: Some cars, particularly luxury and modern vehicles, have more complex designs that make bulb replacement difficult and time-consuming. 
• Bulb type: LED tail lamps can be significantly more expensive than traditional incandescent bulbs. 
• Diagnosis: Some modern vehicles require a computer reset after a repair, which can add to the final bill. 
• Total assembly replacement: If the entire tail light assembly is broken, it will be much more expensive than replacing just the bulb. 

Does AutoZone have tail light bulbs?

At AutoZone, we carry a wide selection of parts for your vehicle, and that includes your tail lights and bulbs. Shop top brand names for parts that fit just like from factory.

Does O'Reilly change tail lights?

Yes, O'Reilly Auto Parts will change tail lights for free with the purchase of the bulbs, but there are exceptions. This service is often unavailable for vehicles with hard-to-access bulbs that require extensive disassembly of parts like the battery or body panels. 
What O'Reilly does

• Offers free installation: When you buy a new tail light bulb or assembly at the store, a parts professional will install it for free on most vehicles. 
• Carries replacement parts: They sell replacement tail light bulbs, complete tail light assemblies, fuses, and sockets. 
• Provides online resources: You can find "how-to" articles and videos on their website to guide you through replacing tail light assemblies yourself. 

When O'Reilly may not be able to change the light

• Difficult access: The service is not offered for vehicles where the bulbs are hard to reach, such as those that require removing the battery, air cleaner box, or other body panels.
• Extensive disassembly: If the job requires significant disassembly of the vehicle, O'Reilly's free installation service will likely not apply. 

What to do

• Call ahead: It is best to call your local O'Reilly Auto Parts store to confirm if they can perform the service on your specific vehicle model. 
• Ask in person: When you arrive to purchase the bulb, a store professional can let you know if your vehicle is eligible for the free installation service. 

Does AutoZone change light bulbs for free?

AutoZone will change simple headlight bulbs for free if you purchase them at the store, but this is on a courtesy basis and depends on the employee's availability and the complexity of the job. For more difficult installations where the bulb is hard to access, they may not be able to help and can instead direct you to a local mechanic through their "Preferred Shop" program. 

• Simple bulbs: For easy-to-reach bulbs, an AutoZone associate may help you install the bulb after you purchase it from them. 
• Complex bulbs: If the bulb is hard to access or requires removing other parts of the car, they likely cannot help, according to AutoZone.com. 
• Customer service: The installation is a courtesy, not a guarantee, and is dependent on the employee's time and ability to do the job, says Jerry.ai. 
• What to do: It's best to call your local store ahead of time to ask if they can assist you. 
• If they can't help: If they are unable to change the bulb, they can help you find a "Preferred Shop" to do the work for you.