Repair 7

How to Replace a Tail Light on a 2000 Ford Expedition XLT

In 1997, Ford released an all-new full-sized SUV known as the Expedition. Ford based the initial body design, which lasted through 2002, on the F-series pickup truck. Even the Expeditions headlights and taillights were nearly identical to those on the F-series. Replacing the taillight on the Expedition requires the removal of the taillight assembly. This requires just two hand tools and a short amount of time.

Instructions

1

Open the Expeditions rear hatch and remove the two screws on the top of the taillight lens, using a Phillips screwdriver. Pry the taillight assembly from the rear of the SUV, using a flat-head screwdriver with the blade wrapped in a cloth. The cloth helps prevent damage to the taillight assembly and the Expeditions body.

2

Twist the taillight bulb socket -- the upper socket on the rear of the taillight assembly -- counterclockwise to unlock it. Pull the socket and bulb from the taillight assembly.

3

Pull the failed taillight bulb from the socket, using a slight wiggling motion. Using a clean, lint-free cloth, press a new 3157 bulb into the socket. Touching the bulb with your bare hands may cause premature bulb failure.

4

Insert the socket and bulb into the rear of the taillight assembly and twist the socket clockwise to lock it in place.

5

Set the taillight assembly back on the rear of the Expedition and tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Close the rear hatch.