How to Replace the Tail Light on a 1996 Suburban

The Suburban's history dates back to 1936 when Chevrolet and GMC converted their panel vans into large, people-moving vehicles. The 1996 Suburban came standard with a 255-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8 engine. General Motors based most of the Suburban's styling off of Chevrolet and GMC pickups, including the taillight design. Just as with the pickups, the Suburbans had vertical taillights that contained the reverse lights, turn signals and taillights. Replacing taillights in the 1996 Suburban requires only one tool and basic mechanical knowledge.

Instructions

1

Open the rear cargo area doors or lower the tailgate, depending on the model Suburban you have.

2

Remove the two screws on the innermost part of the taillight assembly, using a Phillips screwdriver. There are small access holes in the door or tailgate jamb to access these screws.

3

Pull the taillight lens from the rear of the Suburban. Unplug the wiring harness from the rear of the taillight assembly by pressing the locking button and pulling it away from the assembly.

4

Remove the screws securing the bulb assembly -- the plastic board screwed to the rear of the taillight assembly -- using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the bulb assembly away from the taillight assembly.

5

Pull the taillight bulb straight from the bulb assembly with a slight wiggling motion. Grab the plastic base of the new 3057 taillight bulb and press it into the socket. Do not touch the glass part of the bulb, as the oils from your hands may cause it to burn out prematurely.

6

Set the bulb assembly back on the taillight assembly and tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Plug the wiring harness back into the rear of the taillight assembly until it clicks into place.

7

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

8

Close the Suburban's rear doors or tailgate.