How to Change a Brake Light

Steps on How to Replace a Brake Light

1. Find the Correct Bulbs: The first step to take is to figure out what kind of bulbs you need. Check your owner’s manual to see the correct bulb size and voltage for your specific vehicle, or talk to our parts center and we can help you get the correct genuine BMW parts a long-lasting replacement.
2. Remove Tail Light Housing: Once you have the replacement bulb, you’ll need to remove the colored lens that hides the brake light bulbs, which can be done with a Phillips-head screwdriver. After the cover is out of the way, remove the bad bulb.
3. Replace bulb: Before you install the new brake-light bulb, apply a bit of dielectric grease to the end, which prevents corrosion and rust. It also makes it easier to remove the bulb when it’s time to change it again. Put the new bulb in place, reattach the taillight housing, and enjoy driving safely around the San Diego area once again.

Brake Light Tips

1. Since you can’t see the back of your car when you are driving it, it’s hard to know ahead of time that your brake lights are dead or dying. Every once in a while, grab a buddy and have them observe from a safe distance away while you press the brake pedal, and they can see if the brake lights come on.
2. You can also have the service technicians test your brake lights when you take your car in for routine maintenance.
3. A light can malfunction prematurely if moisture gets into the housing of the brake light bulb, so be careful when replacing the light that everything is airtight.

Get Your Vehicle Serviced at BMW of Escondido

If you would rather have professional BMW service technicians take care of your brake lights, schedule a service appointment at BMW of Escondido near Poway, and be sure to check our rotating service specials to save on your next visit. If you need any other automotive tips and tricks, BMW of Escondido can help with that too–from programming your BMW key to checking the transmission fluid, to detailing your car and more.