Step by step: Driving manual

Drivers often do not notice when their tail light brake or indicator bulbs get damaged until they are flagged down by a traffic police officer, during a routine check. A damaged light bulb can get you a traffic fine or worse if you cause an accident.

1: Determine which bulbs are damaged by switching on your indicators, asking someone to step on the brakes or engage the reverse gear. Observe which bulbs you need to replace.

2: You will need a start screw driver to remove the lens assembly. The indicator, reverse and brake lights are usually under the yellow, white and red parts of the lens assembly. Proceed to unscrew the lens housing making sure you keep it and the screws safely.

3 : Remove the light bulb housing, which you cannot pull out too far because of the attached network of wires. Make sure you do not pull hard on the wiring as it may affect the circuits and operation of the lights when you are done.

4 :Remove the plastic plug which holds the bulb. Follow the wires at the back of the light you need to replace. It takes a quarter of a turn to unseat and pull it out.

5 :Remove the bulb. Either pull out or turn twist to remove. Replace it with the new one. Carry out the same procedure for all the other bulbs that you need to replace. Refit the bulb plugs and test the bulbs to ensure they work. Re-install the bulb housing before screwing back the lens cover. Now you are safe and legal.

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com