If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t think much about your license plate lights until they burn out. But when they do, it can be a real pain to get them replaced. That’s why we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to change a license plate light bulb. We’ll also provide some tips on how to avoid common mistakes. So if you’re ready, let’s get started!
The first step is to gather your materials. You will need a new license plate light bulb, a screwdriver, and a pair of gloves. Once you have your materials, you can begin the process of changing the light bulb. The specific steps will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, the general process is the same.
Once you have successfully changed the license plate light bulb, you can test it to make sure it is working properly. Turn on your headlights and check to see if the license plate light is illuminated. If it is not, you may need to adjust the bulb or check the wiring. Once you are satisfied that the license plate light is working properly, you can put the trunk lid back on and close it.
Identifying the License Plate Light Assembly
Identifying the license plate light assembly is the first crucial step in changing the license plate light. Typically, the assembly is a small, rectangular unit located at the rear of the vehicle, above the license plate. It consists of the light bulb, a housing, and a lens. Here’s a detailed guide to help you locate the license plate light assembly:
1. Locate the License Plate:
– Position yourself behind the vehicle and face the rear.
– Look for a rectangular-shaped metal or plastic plate secured to the vehicle’s trunk or bumper.
– This is the license plate, and the license plate light assembly is above it.
2. Examine the Area Above the License Plate:
– Above the license plate, you will see a small rectangular housing or lens.
– This housing typically has a clear or tinted lens that covers a light bulb.
3. Inspect the Housing:
– Gently press or pry on the housing to see if it moves.
– If the housing is loose or can be slightly pulled out, it is likely the license plate light assembly.
4. Check for a Lens:
– Many license plate light assemblies have a clear or tinted lens covering the light bulb.
– If you see a lens, it is a good indication that you have found the correct assembly.
| Additional Tips: |
|---|
| – Some vehicles may have multiple license plate lights, one on each side of the plate. |
| – If the assembly is not easily accessible, you may need to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions. |
Removing the Old Bulbs
Before you begin, put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands. You will need a small Phillips head screwdriver or a flat head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the license plate light cover in place.
Tools You’ll Need:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver or flat head screwdriver | For removing the screws that hold the license plate light cover in place |
Safety Precautions:
* Turn off the engine and park the car in a safe location.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
* Do not smoke or use open flames near the vehicle, as gasoline vapors can be present.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Locate the license plate light cover. It is usually a small, rectangular piece of plastic or metal that is attached to the license plate bracket.
2. Use a Phillips head screwdriver or a flat head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the license plate light cover in place.
3. Carefully remove the license plate light cover.
4. Locate the old bulbs. They are usually small, round bulbs that are inserted into a socket.
5. Gently pull the old bulbs out of the socket.
Choosing the Right Replacement Bulbs
When selecting replacement bulbs for your license plate lights, it’s essential to consider the bulb type, color temperature, and brightness. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Bulb Type
There are two main types of bulbs used in license plate lights: incandescent and LED. Incandescent bulbs produce light by heating a filament, while LED bulbs use light-emitting diodes. LED bulbs are more energy-efficient, last longer, and produce brighter light than incandescent bulbs.
Color Temperature
Color temperature refers to the perceived warmth or coolness of light. It is measured in Kelvins (K). Higher Kelvin ratings indicate a cooler, bluer light, while lower Kelvin ratings indicate a warmer, amber light. For license plate lights, a color temperature between 5000K and 6500K is recommended for optimal visibility and legality.
Brightness
Brightness, measured in lumens (lm), indicates the amount of light emitted by the bulb. License plate lights should provide adequate illumination for visibility without being excessively bright or glaring. A brightness of around 100-150 lumens is generally sufficient for most applications.
| Bulb Type | Color Temperature | Brightness |
|---|---|---|
| LED | 5000K-6500K | 100-150 lumens |
| Incandescent | 2500K-3000K | 60-80 lumens |
Installing the New Bulbs
Materials:
- New license plate light bulbs
- Phillips screwdriver
- Gloves (optional)
Steps:
-
Locate the License Plate Light Assembly: Find the license plate light assembly on the rear of your vehicle. It is typically located on the bumper or trunk lid.
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Remove the Screws: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the license plate light assembly in place. These screws are usually located on the sides or underside of the assembly.
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Detach the Lens: Once the screws are removed, gently pull the license plate light assembly towards you to detach it from the vehicle. Some assemblies may have a locking mechanism that needs to be released before pulling.
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Replace the Bulbs:
- Identify the Bulb Socket: Examine the license plate light assembly to locate the bulb socket. It is typically a small, round or rectangular opening with a metal or plastic base.
- Disconnect the Bulb: Grip the bulb by its base and gently pull it straight out of the socket. If the bulb is stuck, wiggle it slightly while pulling.
- Install the New Bulb: Align the base of the new bulb with the socket and gently push it into place until it snaps or locks into position.
- Connect the Socket: Push the socket back into the license plate light assembly and secure it with the screws provided.
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Test the Lights: Turn on the vehicle’s headlights to verify that the license plate lights are working properly. If one or both bulbs do not illuminate, check the connections and replace the bulbs if necessary.
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Reinstall the Assembly: Slide the license plate light assembly back into its original position on the vehicle and tighten the screws securely.
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Clean Up: Dispose of the old bulbs responsibly and wipe down any tools or gloves used.
Reattaching the License Plate Light Assembly
Step 5: Align and Secure the Light Assembly
Alignment: Align the mounting holes on the license plate light assembly with the holes on the vehicle’s bumper. Ensure the assembly is positioned correctly and the license plate is securely tucked behind it.
Secure the Bolts: Use the bolts that you removed in Step 3 to secure the license plate light assembly back onto the bumper. Tighten the bolts firmly, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage.
Verify Proper Mounting: Confirm that the assembly is securely attached to the bumper and that the license plate is positioned correctly. Use a gentle tug to ensure that the light does not move or come loose.
Reconnect Wiring Harness: Locate the wiring harness that you disconnected in Step 2. Align the connectors and push them together until you hear a click or feel a secure connection. Ensure that the wiring is properly tucked away to prevent any interference with other components.
Double-Check Bolt Tightness: Once the wiring harness is reconnected, double-check the tightness of the bolts to ensure that the license plate light assembly is fully secure. If necessary, adjust the tightness as needed.
Testing the New Lights
Now that the new license plate lights are installed, it’s important to test them to ensure they are working properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to test the new lights:
- Turn on the headlights: Turn on the headlights of your vehicle to activate the license plate lights.
- Check for illumination: Observe if the license plate is clearly illuminated. The light should evenly distribute and provide adequate brightness to make the plate numbers visible.
- Inspect for loose connections: Wiggle the wires and connections to ensure they are secure. If the lights flicker or turn off, there may be a loose connection that needs to be tightened.
- Dimming test: Engage the dimmer switch on your vehicle to test if the license plate lights dim appropriately. The lights should reduce in brightness but remain visible.
- Visual inspection: Examine the new lights for any physical damage or defects. Look for cracks, broken lenses, or frayed wires that may compromise their functionality.
-
Verify bulb type: Double-check that the bulbs you installed match the specified bulb type for your vehicle. Incorrect bulb sizes or types can cause flickering, overheating, or electrical issues.
Bulb Type Compatible Socket Output (Lumens) 168 T10 Wedge 40-80 194 T10 Wedge 50-100 2825 Wedge 60-120 3157 Bayonet 430-550
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Check the Fuse
If the license plate lights are not working, the first thing to check is the fuse. The fuse box is usually located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the location of the fuse box and the correct fuse to check.
2. Inspect the Bulbs
If the fuse is good, the next step is to inspect the bulbs. To do this, remove the license plate light housing by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place. Once the housing is removed, you can inspect the bulbs. If the bulbs are burned out, you will need to replace them with new ones.
3. Check the Wiring
If the bulbs are good, the next step is to check the wiring. Look for any loose or damaged wires. If you find any damaged wires, you will need to repair or replace them.
4. Test the Switch
The license plate lights may also not be working if the switch is faulty. To test the switch, turn the lights on and off several times. If the lights do not turn on or off, the switch may need to be replaced.
5. Check the Ground
If the switch is good, the next step is to check the ground. The ground is a connection between the negative terminal of the battery and the chassis of the vehicle. If the ground is loose or damaged, the lights will not work.
6. Check the Socket
If all of the above steps have been checked and the lights are still not working, the socket may be faulty. To check the socket, use a multimeter to test for continuity between the positive and negative terminals. If there is no continuity, the socket will need to be replaced.
7. Reset the Computer Module
In some cases, the license plate lights may not be working because the computer module has detected a fault. To reset the computer module, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for 10 minutes. Reconnect the negative terminal and turn on the lights. If the lights are now working, the computer module has been reset.
Safety Precautions When Working with Electrical Components
When working with electrical components, it is important to take the following safety precautions:
1. Disconnect the Battery
Before working on any electrical components, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent any electrical shocks or fires.
2. Use Insulated Tools
When working on electrical components, use insulated tools to prevent electrical shocks.
3. Wear Safety Glasses
When working on electrical components, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or sparks.
4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When working on electrical components, be aware of your surroundings and make sure that there are no flammable materials or liquids nearby.
5. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area
When working on electrical components, work in a well-ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of toxic fumes.
6. Don’t Overcrowd the Electrical Panel
When adding new electrical components, don’t overcrowd the electrical panel. This can cause the panel to overheat and start a fire.
7. Use the Correct Wire Gauge
When wiring electrical components, use the correct wire gauge. Using the wrong wire gauge can cause the wires to overheat and start a fire.
8. Make Proper Electrical Connections
When making electrical connections, make sure that the connections are tight and secure. Loose connections can cause arcing and start a fire.
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Ground |
| Red | Power |
| White | Neutral |
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of License Plate Lights
License plate lights are essential for ensuring the visibility of your vehicle at night. Here are some tips to help extend their lifespan:
1. Use LED Bulbs
LED bulbs are more durable and energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. They produce less heat, which helps prevent damage to the license plate light housing.
2. Avoid Overtightening
When replacing the license plate light bulbs, avoid overtightening them. This can damage the bulb or the socket.
3. Clean the Connections
Over time, dirt and grime can accumulate on the electrical connections. Clean these connections regularly to ensure a good electrical connection.
4. Protect from Moisture
Moisture can damage license plate lights. Seal any gaps around the housing with silicone sealant to prevent water from entering.
5. Check for Fuses
If the license plate lights are not working, check the fuses. Blown fuses can indicate a problem with the electrical system.
6. Use a Voltmeter
If the fuses are not blown, use a voltmeter to test the voltage at the license plate light socket. A low voltage reading can indicate a problem with the wiring.
7. Inspect the Wiring
Visually inspect the wiring for any signs of damage, such as fraying or corrosion. Repair any damaged wires promptly.
8. Use a License Plate Light Protector
A license plate light protector can shield the light from dirt, moisture, and road debris.
9. Lifespan Expectancy
The lifespan of license plate lights can vary depending on the type of bulb used and the environmental conditions. Here is an approximate lifespan expectancy for different types of bulbs:
| Bulb Type | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Incandescent | 1,000-2,500 hours |
| LED | 50,000-100,000 hours |
Legal Considerations Regarding License Plate Lights
In many jurisdictions, the law requires license plate lights to adhere to specific brightness, color, and placement regulations to ensure optimal visibility at night. Different regions may have varying legal standards, so it’s crucial to be aware of the applicable laws in your area.
The following are common legal considerations regarding license plate lights:
- Brightness: License plate lights should be sufficiently bright to illuminate the plate numbers clearly from a reasonable distance in darkness.
- Color: Most jurisdictions require white or yellow license plate lights, as these colors provide optimal contrast and readability.
- Number of Lights: Typically, two license plate lights are required, one on each side of the vehicle, to ensure full illumination of the plate.
- Placement: License plate lights should be positioned on the rear of the vehicle, close to the license plate, to ensure proper illumination of the plate numbers.
- Visibility: The license plate lights must be visible from a reasonable distance behind the vehicle in darkness or inclement weather conditions.
- Obstruction: Any object or attachment that obstructs or diminishes the visibility of the license plate lights is prohibited.
- Maintenance: License plate lights should be kept in good working order to ensure clear visibility of the license plate.
- Replacement: If a license plate light malfunctions or becomes damaged, it must be replaced promptly.
- Inspection: Law enforcement officers may inspect license plate lights during traffic stops or vehicle inspections to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Penalties: Failure to comply with license plate light regulations may result in fines, citations, or vehicle inspections.
| Jurisdiction | Brightness Requirement | Color Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 100 lumens | White or yellow |
| Canada | 50 lumens | White or amber |
| United Kingdom | Not specified | White |
| European Union | Not specified | White or amber |
How To Change License Plate Light
License plate lights are essential for illuminating your license plate at night, making it visible to other drivers. If your license plate light is burned out or not working properly, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible to avoid getting a ticket or worse.
Here are the steps on how to change a license plate light:
- Gather your tools. You will need a new license plate light bulb, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.
- Locate the license plate light. The license plate light is usually located on the back of your vehicle, above the license plate.
- Remove the old license plate light. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the license plate light in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the license plate light out of its socket.
- Insert the new license plate light. Align the new license plate light with the socket and push it in until it clicks into place.
- Tighten the screws. Use the screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the license plate light in place.
- Test the license plate light. Turn on your headlights and check to make sure that the license plate light is working properly.
People also ask
How do I change a license plate light on a Chevy Silverado?
To change a license plate light on a Chevy Silverado, you will need to:
- Open the tailgate.
- Locate the two screws that hold the license plate light in place.
- Remove the screws and pull the license plate light out of its socket.
- Insert the new license plate light into the socket and tighten the screws.
How do I change a license plate light on a Ford F-150?
To change a license plate light on a Ford F-150, you will need to:
- Open the tailgate.
- Locate the two screws that hold the license plate light in place.
- Remove the screws and pull the license plate light out of its socket.
- Insert the new license plate light into the socket and tighten the screws.
How do I change a license plate light on a Ram 1500?
To change a license plate light on a Ram 1500, you will need to:
- Open the tailgate.
- Locate the two screws that hold the license plate light in place.
- Remove the screws and pull the license plate light out of its socket.
- Insert the new license plate light into the socket and tighten the screws.
