Clearance lamps replacement
Changing parking light bulbs is a simple but important job. The clearance lights are needed to identify the car when it is parked at night, as well as to make it stand out on the road in low visibility conditions. In addition, if at least one of the lamps of the lighting system is not working, the traffic police inspector can write a fine of 500 rubles. Therefore, if a problem arises, it should be eliminated as soon as possible, every driver can cope with this.
What you need to replace the bulbs in the parking lights
Before you change a failed lamp, it is necessary to prepare everything necessary for the work. It does not require a garage, the repair is not difficult and in most cases can be carried out in the yard, in the parking lot or even on the side of the road, if the bulb has burned out on the way. It is important to ensure safety when carrying out the work, it is better to use gloves so as not to hurt your hands on the protruding elements and assemblies.
The list of tools you need depends on where the bulb is replaced. If it is done at the front, it may be necessary to remove the plastic trim or to remove interfering parts (e.g. air filter housing or battery). Therefore, it is worthwhile to inspect the place of work in advance and determine what it will take to free up space. If access is not limited, it is necessary to study the design of the back of the lamp, if the cover is on the latch - nothing is required, and if it is on the screws, you pick up a screwdriver of appropriate size and configuration.
In some models of cars, to replace the bulb you need to remove the headlight from the housing. Most often it is held on a few bolts or released by pressing a special latch. The main thing is to study the instructions for removal in advance, so as not to break or damage anything.
Before replacing the tail light bulb, it is worth examining the trunk and deal with access to the headlights. First, you should clear the space. Secondly, study the design. Usually you need to remove the trim or a special cover that covers the taillight from the inside. Based on the features of the design prepare the tool, usually a screwdriver or a small wrench is enough.
It is also worth to have on hand a simple set of tools - screwdrivers of different sizes and shapes, wrenches, a cleaner for contacts, to treat the electrical connection with it.
How to choose bulbs for parking lights
Without a new light source, you don't need to start work. Before you change the bulbs, it is worth finding out which version is installed on the car. It is easiest to study the manual or read the information on specialized automotive portals. There are often recommendations on the choice with a description of the pros and cons of products from different manufacturers.
Usually several basic varieties are used. If there is no data, and access to the inside is good, you can remove the failed element and use it as a sample when buying. It is best to buy bulbs in stock, so that there is always one of each variety in the car just in case.
Instead of standard halogen bulbs, they are increasingly being replaced with LED. They consume much less light, are not inferior in brightness and have a long service life. In the headlights this option works perfectly, the main thing is to choose the right size element, which will fit in place without modifications and alterations.
Halogen bulbs should be replaced every 1-2 years, because over time their light deteriorates, and the spiral thins. Because of this, the risk of failure increases at times.
Rules for replacing bulbs in the car parking lights
Changing light sources is usually not difficult, but a few simple rules should be followed. Any irregularities may lead to damage of the headlight or failure of other elements, which will result in more expensive repairs.
Rear lights
First of all, you need to free the compartment from everything that creates interference during operation. Then the location of the lights is inspected and it is determined how to free the access. In modern cars, most often there are covers or hatches, which are held on the latches. Older models may require a screwdriver or small wrench to remove the plug.
Next, you need to remove the clearance lamp, it is important to know exactly where it is located. There may be different options depending on the design. Sometimes it is necessary to gently loosen the locks with a screwdriver and remove the board, in which all light sources are located. In some models, each bulb is in an individual socket, which can be removed by slightly by turning counterclockwise and pulling. There may also be retainers from which the bulb and connector can be removed.
When removing, the contacts are always inspected for damage and melting. If necessary, they are cleaned or replaced with a new one if the contact is not good. Before final reassembly it is worth checking that the system is working. Only then is installation in reverse order of disassembly.
Front lights
The parking lights The front lights are usually more difficult to change than the rear ones because of the interfering elements. First you need to prepare the front, it is best to put a cloth or a special mat, so as not to damage the fender and not to get dirty. Next, the under-hood space is inspected and it is determined what needs to be removed. First it is better to choose the headlight, which is easier to access. Then work with the second will be easier, since you already know the location of the lamp and the peculiarities of its removal and installation.
After removing everything that is in the way, remove the back cover from the headlight. If necessary, disconnect the connector with wires. The lamp is removed from its seat easily, it should be turned counterclockwise about a quarter of a turn. The socket is inspected for damage and can be treated with contact compound before fitting a new bulb.
Mistakes when replacing bulbs
Often mistakes are made during the work, which can be avoided by understanding a few simple recommendations:
- Front lights should be white, you can not put colored bulbs. For this issue a fine and even deprive the driver's license.
- You can not put instead of a lamp with one spiral version with two spirals. It will work, but the light will be much worse than it should be.
- Do not use the wrong wattage options.
- Do not put back melted cartridges, you should replace them and deal with the cause of overheating.
By the way! You should not pull on the connectors, they usually have latches to be pressed.
Safety precautions
When carrying out work, it is worth observing the elementary rules. It is recommended to disconnect the battery during any repair of electrical equipment to avoid short circuits and electrocution. Do not touch the elements of the structure with wet or oily hands.
It is worth carefully inspecting the wiring. If the insulation is damaged, repair the problem, as this may cause the machine to short out and catch fire. It is advisable not to touch the bulb bulb bulb, especially for halogen versions. If it is dirty, the surface is wiped with a absorbent cotton soaked in alcohol.
Video instructions on bulbs replacement
Mitsubishi Lancer 9.
KIA RIO 4 and KIA RIO X-Line.
Volkswagen Polo 2015.
Geely ck1 ck2 ck3.
Lada Largus.
Replacing parking lights bulbs is not difficult, if you understand the design of the headlights and easy access. The main thing - to pick up bulbs of the right type and power and properly connect them, so that the contact at all connections was reliable.