How to Fix the Tail Lights on a 1989 Chevrolet Truck

Fixing the taillights on your 1989 Chevrolet pickup usually involves changing the bulbs inside the taillight assembly. There is not much to go wrong with the taillights, and bulbs are the most common cause of a light not working. The bulbs are inexpensive and only take a few minutes to swap out, making this a great home project. Visit an auto parts store to purchase new bulbs for your truck.

Tools Used: Phillips screwdriver, Socket set, Nut driver

Fix Tail Lights

Open the tailgate of your Chevrolet and locate the retaining screws that thread into the side of the taillight assembly from the bedside, just above and below the latch. Remove the screws with a Phillips screwdriver, then set the screws in a safe place.

Pull the taillight assembly out of the rear fender and locate the electrical connector on the back of the assembly. Lift the locking tab on the connector slightly and pull the connector out of the taillight assembly.

Lay the taillight assembly on a flat surface and find the two retaining bolts that secure the bulb holder to the back of the taillight. Remove the two bolts with a socket and nut driver, then lift the bulb holder off the back of the assembly. Inspect the bulb, locating the bulb that is not working.

Push in on the bulb while turning it counterclockwise to release it from the bulb holder. Discard the old bulb and replace it with a new bulb. Push the new bulb into the socket and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Repeat for any burned-out or broken bulbs.

Install the bulb holder back on the taillight assembly, insert the retaining bolts and tighten them with a socket and nut driver. Do not overtighten these bolts or they will strip the plastic and not stay tight.

Install the electrical connector into the connector on the back of the taillight assembly, pushing it in until it snaps onto the retainer. Position the taillight assembly back on the rear of the truck body and install the two retaining screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

Test the taillight by turning on the headlight switch, then step on the brake pedal to ensure the taillight and brake light illuminate.