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Ford F-150/F-250: How To Install Tail Light Bulb

Do you have a burned out tail light bulb on your Ford F-150 and Super Duty? Here is a step by step guide on how to replace a burned out tail light bulb, the costs involved, and the tools you will need.

By Brett Foote - November 10, 2014

This article applies to the Ford F-150 (2004-2014) and F-250 Super Duty (2005-2014).

Burned out tail light bulbs can present an unsafe and potentially expensive situation, depending on whether you notice them before the friendly police office does. The good news is, replacing a tail light bulb is a very easy and inexpensive task that virtually anyone can do themselves on their Ford F-series truck.

Materials Needed

  • Ratchet
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • New bulb

Step 1 - Remove tail light bolts

  • Turn your engine off.
  • Make sure your lights are off.
  • Open the tailgate and locate the two bolts holding the tail light.
  • Remove the two bolts using an 8 mm ratchet. You may need to use a screw driver instead of a ratchet.
Figure 1. Locate the tail light bolts.

Step 2 - Remove the bulb

  • Pull the tail light assembly out.
Figure 3. Remove the tail light assembly.
  • Turn the bulb connectors counterclockwise exposing the bulb.
Figure 4. Remove the bulb by turning it counter clockwise.
  • Note that the top bulb is the tail lamp, while the smaller one at the bottom is the backup lamp.

Step 3 - Install the new bulb

  • After removing the old lamp, install the new one.
Figure 4. Install the new bulb.
  • Reconnect the light fixture and screw the bolts back on.
  • Start the car and check the lights to ensure they are operable.

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