Flickering or dim license plate lights are not only a nuisance but also a safety hazard. With regular wear and tear, license plate bulbs can burn out, leaving your vehicle with barely visible license plates. Not only does this make it difficult for law enforcement to identify your car, but it can also lead to fines or other penalties. Changing a license plate bulb is a simple and inexpensive task that can be completed in just a few minutes. If you’re not comfortable working on your own vehicle, you can always take it to a mechanic. However, if you’re looking to save some money and get the job done yourself, follow our step-by-step guide below.
Before you begin, gather your tools and materials. You will need a new license plate bulb, a screwdriver, and a pair of gloves. If your vehicle has a plastic cover over the license plate lights, you will also need a plastic pry tool or a flathead screwdriver to remove it. Once you have everything you need, park your vehicle in a well-lit area and put it in park. Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake.
Locate the license plate lights on the rear of your vehicle. They are typically located on either side of the license plate. Using the screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the license plate light covers in place. Once the screws are removed, carefully pry the covers off using the plastic pry tool or flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the covers or the wiring. Once the covers are removed, you will see the license plate bulbs. Gently twist the old bulbs counterclockwise to remove them from the sockets. Then, insert the new bulbs into the sockets and twist them clockwise to tighten them. Replace the license plate light covers and screws, and you’re finished!
Identifying the Type of License Plate Bulb
Before replacing a license plate bulb, it’s crucial to identify its correct type. Different vehicle manufacturers and models often utilize specific bulb types, so determining your car’s exact bulb is essential. Here are the most common types of license plate bulbs used in vehicles today:
| Bulb Type | Description |
|---|---|
| 194 | A miniature wedge-shaped bulb with a bayonet base |
| 168 | A miniature wedge-shaped bulb with a wedge base |
| 578 | A miniature wedge-shaped bulb with a wedge base and can withstand high temperatures |
| 2825 | A miniature bulb with a wedge base and a single filament |
| 3157 | A bulb with a single filament and a bayonet base |
To determine the type of bulb your vehicle requires, consult your owner’s manual or refer to websites like Sylvania’s Automotive Lighting Guide. Alternatively, you can remove the existing bulb and inspect the base and type number printed on it.
Removing the Lens Cover
The lens cover protects the license plate bulb from dirt, moisture, and other environmental factors. It is typically made of plastic or glass and is held in place by two or more screws. To remove the lens cover, follow these steps:
- Locate the screws that hold the lens cover in place. They are usually located on the top or bottom of the cover.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the screws. Be careful not to drop them.
- Gently pry the lens cover off of the housing. It may be necessary to use a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry it loose.
Additional Tips for Removing the Lens Cover:
- If the screws are rusty or corroded, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen them.
- Be careful not to damage the lens cover when removing it.
- If you are having difficulty removing the lens cover, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Once the lens cover is removed, you will have access to the license plate bulb. You can now replace the bulb and reinstall the lens cover.
Replacing the Burnt-Out Bulb
Usually, changing a license plate bulb is an easy task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, the exact steps may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Here are the general steps to replace a burnt-out license plate bulb:
1. Park the Vehicle and Engage the Parking Brake
For safety, park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Locate the License Plate Bulbs
The license plate bulbs are usually located on either side of the license plate. They are often accessible from the trunk or through small access panels on the rear bumper.
3. Remove the Old Bulb
To remove the old bulb, you will need to:
| Type of Bulb | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Screw-in bulb | Turn the bulb counterclockwise to remove it. |
| Bayonet-style bulb | Push in and twist the bulb counterclockwise to remove it. |
| LED bulb | Follow any specific instructions provided for your LED bulb type. Some LED bulbs may require detaching a wire connector or using a special tool. |
Note: If the bulb is stuck or difficult to remove, do not force it. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Replace the old bulb with a new one of the same type. Make sure to insert it correctly and tighten it securely. After replacing the bulb, turn on the headlights to ensure the new bulb is working properly.
Replacing the License Plate Light Bulb
…
Reattaching the Lens Cover
Once you have replaced the bulb, it is time to reattach the lens cover. This is a simple process, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, make sure that the gasket is in place. The gasket is a rubber seal that helps to keep water and dirt out of the license plate light assembly. If the gasket is not in place, water and dirt can get into the assembly and damage the bulb or the wiring.
Next, align the lens cover with the license plate light assembly. The lens cover should fit snugly into the assembly. If it does not fit snugly, it may not be properly secured and could fall off.
Finally, tighten the screws that hold the lens cover in place. Do not overtighten the screws, as this could damage the lens cover or the assembly.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Make sure that the gasket is in place. |
| 2 | Align the lens cover with the license plate light assembly. |
| 3 | Tighten the screws that hold the lens cover in place. |
Verifying the Bulb’s Functionality
Before replacing the license plate bulb, it’s essential to verify that it’s indeed malfunctioning. Follow these steps to test the bulb:
-
Confirm Power Source: Ensure that the license plate light switch is turned on. If it’s a rear-mounted license plate, put the vehicle in reverse gear. Some models only activate the license plate lights in reverse.
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Visual Inspection: Examine the bulb for any visible damage or corrosion. Look for any loose connections or broken wires.
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Multimeter Testing (Advanced): If you have a multimeter, you can test the electrical continuity of the bulb. Set the multimeter to the “continuity” or “resistance” setting and touch the probes to the bulb’s terminals. A working bulb will produce a low resistance reading.
-
Swapping Bulbs (Optional): If you have a spare license plate bulb, try swapping the malfunctioning bulb with the spare. If the spare bulb works, it confirms that the original bulb is defective.
| Tool | Measurement | Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Multimeter | Resistance | Low resistance (e.g., 1-10 ohms) |
Safety Considerations
1. Park the Vehicle Safely
Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake to prevent it from rolling.
2. Turn Off the Engine
Turn off the engine to avoid any electrical accidents.
3. Wear Gloves
Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or hot bulb filaments.
4. Allow the Bulbs to Cool
If the license plate bulbs have been on for an extended period, allow them to cool down before touching them.
5. Disconnect the Battery (Optional)
For added safety, you can disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent any electrical shocks or short circuits.
6. Inspect the Bulb and Socket
Thoroughly inspect the blown bulb and its socket. Look for signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damage.
Socket Inspection:
| Component | Inspection Points |
|---|---|
| Socket | Look for corrosion, rust, or physical damage. |
| Terminals | Check for loose or damaged terminals. |
| Bulb Alignment | Ensure the socket is properly aligned with the bulb holder. |
Troubles💡hooting Common Issues
💡 Dim or Flickering Bulb
Ensure the bulb is securely installed and has good contact with the socket. If the issue persists, replace the bulb with a new one.
💡 Bulb Burned Out
This is the most common issue. Simply replace the old bulb with a new one of the same size and type.
💡 Faulty Socket
Inspect the socket for any corrosion or damage. Clean or replace the socket if necessary. Ensure a snug fit between the bulb and socket.
💡 Bad Wiring
Check the electrical connections between the socket and the vehicle’s electrical system. Repair or replace any damaged wires.
💡 Grounding Issue
Ensure the socket is properly grounded to ensure proper electrical connections. Check for a ground strap or wire and ensure it is secure.
💡 Blown Fuse
A blown fuse can cut power to the license plate light. Check the fuse box and replace any blown fuses with new ones of the same amperage.
💡 Stay Put, Bulb Loose
If the bulb keeps falling out or is loose, check the socket for any damage or debris. Clean the socket and ensure the bulb locks in securely. Adjust the socket if necessary.
Step 1: Gather Materials
You will need a new license plate bulb, a screwdriver, and gloves. If you are using LED bulbs, you may also need a resistor. Refer to the bulb’s packaging for specific requirements.
Step 2: Safety First
Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Turn off the engine and remove the keys. Wear gloves to protect your hands from hot bulbs and sharp edges.
Step 3: Locate the Bulb
Open the trunk or access the rear of the vehicle where the license plate is located. The bulb holders are usually located behind the license plate.
Step 4: Remove the Old Bulb
Use the screwdriver to gently pry open the bulb holder. Twist the old bulb counterclockwise to remove it. If the bulb is stuck, you can use pliers to carefully remove it.
Step 5: Install the New Bulb
Insert the new bulb into the socket and twist it clockwise to secure it. Ensure the bulb is firmly seated in the holder.
Step 6: Reassemble
Close the bulb holder and secure it with the screwdriver.
Step 7: Test the Bulb
Turn on the vehicle’s lights and check if the license plate bulb is working properly.
Step 8: Using LED Bulbs for Enhanced Illumination
LED bulbs offer several advantages over traditional incandescent bulbs:
- Brighter illumination: LED bulbs emit a brighter light, providing better visibility of your license plate at night.
- Longer lifespan: LED bulbs typically last up to 50,000 hours, significantly longer than incandescent bulbs.
- Energy efficiency: LED bulbs consume less energy than incandescent bulbs, saving your battery power.
- Resist vibration: LED bulbs are more resistant to vibration, making them ideal for vehicles that experience rough driving conditions.
- Variety of colors: LED bulbs are available in various colors, allowing you to customize the look of your license plate illumination.
| Characteristic | Incandescent Bulb | LED Bulb |
|---|---|---|
| Brightness | 250 lumens | 400+ lumens |
| Lifespan | 1,500 hours | 25,000+ hours |
| Energy consumption | 10 watts | 1 watt |
Note: If you are installing LED bulbs in place of incandescent bulbs, you may need to install a resistor to prevent hyper-flashing of the turn signals.
How To Change License Plate Bulb
License plate bulbs are an essential part of your vehicle’s lighting system. They illuminate the license plate, making it visible to other drivers at night. Over time, license plate bulbs can burn out and need to be replaced. Replacing a license plate bulb is a simple task that can be done in a few minutes.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- New license plate bulb
- Screwdriver (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1.
Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2.
Locate the license plate light assembly. It is typically located on the rear of the vehicle, below the license plate.
3.
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the license plate light assembly in place.
4.
Gently pull the license plate light assembly away from the vehicle.
5.
Locate the burnt-out bulb and gently remove it from the socket. Do not touch the new bulb with your bare fingers, as the oils from your skin can shorten its lifespan.
6.
Insert the new bulb into the socket and make sure it is properly seated.
7.
Reattach the license plate light assembly to the vehicle and tighten the screws.
8.
Turn on the vehicle’s lights and check if the license plate bulb is working.
9.
Replace both license plate bulbs at once, even if only one is burnt out. This will help ensure even illumination and prevent future premature failures.
Additional Tips for Longer Bulb Life
Follow these tips to extend the lifespan of your license plate bulbs:
- Avoid touching the bulbs with your bare fingers.
- Clean the bulbs with a soft cloth when you replace them.
- Use bulbs of the correct wattage and type for your vehicle.
- Check the bulbs regularly for signs of damage or wear.
- Replace bulbs in pairs, even if only one is burnt out.
- Consider using LED bulbs, which have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Avoid leaving the license plate lights on for extended periods.
- Protect the bulbs from moisture and extreme temperatures.
- Regular maintenance of your vehicle’s electrical system can also help extend the life of your license plate bulbs.
Table: License Plate Bulb Types
| Bulb Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Incandescent | Traditional bulbs with a shorter lifespan |
| LED | Long-lasting, energy-efficient bulbs |
Avoiding Common Mistakes
1. Using Incorrect Bulbs
Ensure you use the correct bulb type and wattage specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Incorrect bulbs may result in improper illumination, electrical problems, or damage.
2. Overtightening the Bulb
Avoid overtightening the bulb, as this can cause the bulb to crack or damage the socket. Hand-tighten the bulb securely, ensuring it stays in place without excessive force.
3. Touching the Glass Part of the Bulb
Avoid touching the glass part of the bulb with bare hands. The oils from your skin can cause the bulb to overheat and shorten its lifespan. Use a clean cloth or gloves when handling the bulb.
4. Forgetting to Disconnect the Battery
Before working on electrical components, disconnect the negative battery terminal. This safety measure prevents accidental electrical shocks.
5. Not Using a Pry Tool or Screwdriver
Utilize an appropriate pry tool or screwdriver to gently remove the license plate housing without causing damage. Avoid using sharp tools that could scratch the paint.
6. Not Replacing Both Bulbs
If one license plate bulb is burnt out, replace both bulbs to ensure even illumination and avoid future inconsistencies.
7. Improperly Reinstalling the Housing
After replacing the bulbs, carefully reinstall the license plate housing, ensuring it fits snugly and doesn’t rattle. Securely fasten any screws or bolts.
8. Not Testing the Bulbs
Before reconnecting the battery, test the replaced bulbs to ensure they are working correctly and illuminating the license plate.
9. Leaving the Battery Disconnected for Too Long
Reconnect the battery promptly after completing the bulb replacement. Leaving the battery disconnected for extended periods can reset vehicle settings or cause memory loss in electronic systems.
10. Neglecting to Check for Other Issues
If the license plate bulbs continue to burn out frequently, investigate potential underlying issues such as loose wiring, faulty sockets, or electrical problems that require professional attention.
How to Change a License Plate Bulb
Replacing a blown license plate bulb is a quick and easy task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Gather your materials. You will need a new license plate bulb and a screwdriver or hex key.
- Locate the license plate light assembly. It is usually located on the trunk lid or bumper.
- Remove the screws or bolts that hold the license plate light assembly in place.
- Pull the license plate light assembly out of the bracket. Be careful not to damage the wires.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the license plate light assembly.
- Remove the old license plate bulb from the socket.
- Insert the new license plate bulb into the socket.
- Reconnect the electrical connector to the license plate light assembly.
- Reinsert the license plate light assembly into the bracket.
- Secure the license plate light assembly with the screws or bolts.
- Test the new license plate bulb to make sure it is working properly.
People Also Ask About How to Change License Plate Bulb
How often should I change my license plate bulbs?
You should change your license plate bulbs every 2-3 years, or more often if they start to dim or flicker.
What type of license plate bulb do I need?
The type of license plate bulb you need will depend on your vehicle’s make and model. You can find the correct bulb type in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Is it difficult to change a license plate bulb?
No, changing a license plate bulb is a quick and easy task that can be completed in a matter of minutes.
