2002 Nissan Frontier Tail Light Removal

The Nissan Frontier appeared in the U.S. market in the 1998 model year, as the replacement for the Hardbody pickup. In 2001, Nissan redesigned the Frontier, giving it a more aggressive design and a more stylish front end. The taillight assemblies of the 2002 Frontier were similar to the first generation, and replacing them is fairly straightforward.

Bulb Type

The 2002 Frontier's taillight and stoplight use the same bulb. This bulb is a type 3157, and it has two filaments inside of it. One filament lights up for the taillight when you turn on the headlights, and the second filament lights up when you press the brake pedal.

Removing the Taillight

Open the Frontier's tailgate and remove the two taillight assembly-retaining bolts from the inner part of the taillight assembly -- in the tailgate jamb -- using a ratchet and socket. Pull the taillight assembly away from the rear of the truck. Twist the taillight socket -- the top socket on the rear of the taillight assembly -- counterclockwise and pull it from the rear of the taillight assembly. Pull the bulb out of the taillight socket, using a slight wiggling motion.

Reinstall the Taillight

Grab a new type 3157 light bulb, using a clean, lint-free cloth, and press it into the taillight socket. Insert the socket and new bulb into the taillight assembly and twist it clockwise to lock it into place. Set the taillight assembly back into the taillight assembly bed on the rear of the Frontier and tighten the taillight assembly-retaining bolts. Close the tailgate.

Precautions

When installing the new bulb, don't touch it with your bare hands, as the oil from your hands can cause premature bulb failure. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to prevent this. Do not shake the bulb while installing it, as the filament inside may break.