How to Replace the Signal Lights in a Toyota Tacoma

The owner's manual of a Toyota Tacoma has information regarding simple repairs. A list of exterior bulbs and fuses will need replacing periodically. The owner's manual for the Tacoma's charts the trade numbers for the purchase of the right bulb and fuse. A copy of the owner's manual for the Toyota Tacoma is available online if you don't have the original that came with the vehicle.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Pliers
• Replacement bulbs
• Turn signal replacement kit

1. • 1

     Check for the operation of the signal lights on the Toyota Tacoma as a regular part of the maintenance of the vehicle. Ask a friend to turn the signal light on and off while you stand outside and inspect the operation of the bulbs.

   • 2

     Decide if the whole turn signal assembly is broken or if the light bulb is blown. If it is just the light bulb, find the light housing at the front of the Tacoma--you need to search under the hood of the vehicle.

   • 3

     Search for a thumbscrew that holds the housing in place. Remove the thumbscrew, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the housing screw and lift the housing out.

   • 4

     Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull out the housing. Don't pull too hard as there are wires attached to the housing.

   • 5

     Take the light bulb from the socket. Inspect the bulb's filament to see if it is broken. If the filament is broken, replace the bulb.

   • 6

     Make the same type of inspection to the sidemarker lights on the Toyota Tacoma. Find the sidemarker lights under the front fender.

   • 7

     Screw the bulb socket and housing back into place and test the signal lights before driving.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you read the owner's manual to find the trade code for the light bulb you need to replace.