I need help. My husband's 95 Camry has a tail light out. He has changed it before and this time, we can't seem to get the bulb out to replace it. Everything I read says turn counterclockwise and then pull. I will NOT pull out to even get to the bulb. Any help?

Normally you would want to start a new thread rather than resurrect an old one. That being said, there may be some corrosion in the socket holding the bulb in. Try spraying some penetrating oil, wiggling the bulb, then push in and turn counterclockwise.

I think DFBonnett has it with his note to push in slightly and then turn the bulb counterclockwise. If it still won't come out you will have to work it a bit as he suggested. I would suggest you wear some gloves when doing that, just to be safe.

Mike

I just bought this car about a week ago, and I was driving down the street and was stopped by a motorist at a light who informed me that my tail lights were out. I immediately took it to my friend house who knows things about cars, he checked the fuses and none were blown, he then checked the bulbs and those were fine to. I have brake lights, and turn signals just no tail lights. Someone even told me to check out the yellow relay box in the trunk, I did and found no problems. Can you help me?


Shockstar13,

On my 89' Camry I was having simular issues but only on one side!!! I took it in to the dealer and told me the socket was shorting out so he had to replace that one side. Seems to be fine now. Consider that possibility too.

Mail Clerk

(Mod Note: This posting has been moved to a separate thread.)

Maybe a little clarification is needed...

First the plastic socket needs to be removed from the light assembly by twisting it counter-clockwise. Yes, this can be difficult as the rubber foam seal gets crudded up with dirt and when everything is cold. A quick shot of WD-40 or similar around the socket's edge can help lube things up. Then I'd suggest wearing a latex glove to help with gripping it.

Then the bulb itself needs to be removed from the socket by pushing the bulb INTO the socket and then rotating it counter-clockwise. Again, a shot of rust penetrant might help as these lens assemblies, as they age, are prone to rainwater leaking into them. Use a towel to protect your hand from breaking bulb as suggested earlier.

Buy some bulb grease and apply it to the new bulb end and socket liberally. I'd repeat this with all the bulbs if the old grease has dried up or is gone. Good luck!