The operation and safety of your vehicle is vital to you and those around you. Every device on a car has a purpose, whether it is for operation, safety or comfort. Taillights are no different. Taillights are an extremely important part of a vehicle.


It is important that the taillights are inspected regularly and replaced as needed. The proper care and routine inspection will not only keep your vehicle running the way it was meant to, but will ensure safety of you and those around you, as well as help reduce the possibilities of accidents.

Safety is the number one reason for taillights

The whole reason for taillights is to relay to others what you are doing. The taillights indicate to the drivers behind you several different things—they tell a driver whether you are turning, preparing to stop, stopped or backing up.

Also, if you are in distress on the side of the road, you are more visible to traffic if your hazard lights are on. It allows drivers to know they should proceed with caution. All-in-all, drivers who are behind you are able to better predict your actions on the road through your taillights.

The proper way to inspect the taillights

The best way to know how to change your lights is to check with your owner’s manual. Your vehicle will have its own light requirements unique to its make and model. The manual usually gives you simple instructions on inspecting and replacing your taillights.  The steps for checking your taillights are fairly simple. You can perform the check and it should only take you a few minutes. Here is what you will need to do:

  • You will be checking the running lights, the turn signals and the brake lights
  • You may want to have someone assist you in checking the taillights
  • If you need to check the lights by yourself, back the vehicle up near a window and look at the refection through your back window
  • Tap your brakes
  • Switch on your right turn signal than your left
  • Switch to night time running lights
  • Turn on your hazard lights


If there are any lights out, check your fuses. If the piece of metal in the fuse looks broken or fractured, the fuse is blown and will need to be replaced. If the fuses look good you may need to replace one or more of the blubs. You can replace the fuses and light bulbs yourself; you will need to know the proper bulbs for your make and model. You can take them with you for assistance.

If you need to, seek the help of professionals

There is no need to stress if you have trouble with the taillights in your car. There are many professionals that can help you with the inspection and replacement of the taillights. A professional can tell you what needs replacing or what products are best suited for your car. They can also perform the replacement for you. Just contact a professional near you.

CarTek Collision is a full service, state-of-the-art repair center located in the Eagle Rock, CA. Our services extend to the surrounding areas, and we will gladly help you with your car repairs. No matter what the reason or the need, you can count on it being stress-free with CarTek Collision. If you need a repair or service, contact us at CarTek Collison  or schedule an appointment.

323-255-7711

4802 EAGLE ROCK BLVD., LOS ANGELES CA 90041