How to Change the Brake Light on a 2005 Silverado

Iskandar Blogger 5:57 AM

The taillight assemblies on the rear of your 2005 Chevy Silverado contain bulbs for the stop light, the turn signal, the back-up light, and on some models, the side marker. Removal of the assembly is a requirement if you are going to access the taillight or other bulbs. The stop lights may use a 1157- or 3157-type bulb, but you will have to open the assembly and remove the bulb to be sure which kind you need, as GM mixed and matched them on models through the 2005 production year. Either bulb is available for purchase at any auto parts store.

Instructions

    1

    Open the tailgate on the rear of your Silverado and locate the retaining screws along the inner edge of the truck bed, where the taillight meets the sheet metal. The two screws have a Torx head, requiring the use of a Torx screwdriver to remove them.

    2

    Remove the two retaining screws from the taillight assembly, using a Torx screwdriver, and set them aside. Grasp the taillight assembly with your hands and pull it straight out of the truck bed. Do not pull it so far out that you damage the wires attached to the rear of the assembly.

    3

    Turn the assembly over and find the bulb socket at the top of the assembly -- this is the stop light socket. Rotate the socket counterclockwise -turn, then pull it out of the housing. Grasp the bulb and pull it out of the socket, then discard it.

    4

    Place a small amount of dielectric grease into the socket and push the new bulb into place until it is fully seated. Slide the bulb and socket into the rear of the taillight assembly, then rotate them clockwise -turn to lock them in place.

    5

    Position the taillight assembly on the rear of the truck bed, pushing it into place, then install the two retaining screws from the side of the assembly. Tighten the screws with a Torx screwdriver until they are snug. Do not over-tighten them, or you will crack the plastic taillight housing, which will necessitate its replacement.

    6

    Repeat the process for the second taillight, if it needs replacement. Close the tailgate and test the repair by watching the lights to ensure that they work, while an assistant depresses the brake pedal on your vehicle.