Replacing a brake light on a 2016 Ford Focus is a straightforward task that most car owners can accomplish with basic tools and a little patience. A functioning brake light is crucial for road safety, as it alerts drivers behind you when you’re slowing down or stopping. If you’ve noticed that one of your brake lights is out, it’s important to replace it promptly to avoid potential accidents or traffic violations.
The 2016 Ford Focus has a relatively simple brake light replacement process, which can typically be completed in about 15-30 minutes. Before you begin, it’s essential to ensure you have the correct replacement bulb and necessary tools. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of replacing your brake light, provide tips for a successful replacement, and answer common questions about the procedure.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Model | 2016 Ford Focus |
| Brake Light Bulb Type | P21W or 7506 |
| Tools Required | Screwdriver, Safety Gloves |
| Estimated Time | 15-30 minutes |
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you start the replacement process, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary tools and materials. This preparation will ensure a smooth and efficient brake light replacement on your 2016 Ford Focus. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Replacement bulb: The most critical component is the correct replacement bulb. For a 2016 Ford Focus, you’ll typically need a P21W or 7506 bulb. It’s always best to double-check your vehicle’s manual or consult with an auto parts store to ensure you get the right bulb for your specific model.
2. Screwdriver: You’ll need a screwdriver to remove the plastic screws or wingnuts that hold the taillight assembly in place. A Phillips head screwdriver is usually sufficient, but it’s good to have both flathead and Phillips head options on hand.
3. Safety gloves: While not absolutely necessary, wearing gloves is recommended to protect your hands and prevent oils from your skin from getting on the new bulb, which can cause it to burn out prematurely.
4. Flashlight: A small flashlight can be helpful for better visibility when working in the trunk or behind the taillight assembly.
5. Owner’s manual: Your Ford Focus owner’s manual can provide specific information about your vehicle’s brake light system and any model-specific instructions for replacement.
6. Clean cloth: A lint-free cloth can be useful for cleaning the area around the bulb socket and wiping down the new bulb before installation.
It’s important to note that some newer Ford Focus models might require additional tools or have a slightly different process for accessing the brake light. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions. Having all these items ready before you start will make the replacement process much smoother and help you avoid unnecessary interruptions.
Step-by-Step Brake Light Replacement Process
Replacing the brake light on your 2016 Ford Focus involves a series of straightforward steps. Follow this guide carefully to ensure a successful replacement:
1. Locate the Brake Light Assembly
Start by opening your vehicle’s trunk or hatch. The brake light assembly is typically located on the inside of the trunk, behind the taillight housing. You may need to remove a fabric cover or plastic panel to access it.
2. Remove the Taillight Assembly
Look for plastic wingnuts or screws securing the taillight assembly. There are usually two of these, often colored black or gray. Turn them counterclockwise to loosen and remove them. Be careful not to drop them into the trunk lining.
3. Detach the Taillight Unit
Once the wingnuts are removed, gently pull the taillight assembly away from the vehicle. It should come out easily, but be careful as it’s still connected by wires. Don’t pull too hard to avoid damaging the wiring.
4. Access the Brake Light Bulb
With the assembly partially removed, you’ll see the back of the taillight with several bulb sockets. The brake light is typically the larger bulb among them. Identify which bulb needs replacement.
5. Remove the Old Bulb
Turn the bulb holder counterclockwise to release it from the assembly. Then, carefully pull the old bulb straight out of the socket. If it’s difficult to remove, you can gently wiggle it while pulling.
6. Insert the New Bulb
Take your new brake light bulb and insert it into the socket. Be careful not to touch the glass part of the bulb with your bare hands, as oils from your skin can cause the bulb to fail prematurely. Use gloves or a clean cloth to handle the bulb.
7. Secure the Bulb and Reassemble
Turn the bulb holder clockwise to secure it back into the taillight assembly. Carefully align the taillight unit back into place on your Ford Focus. Make sure it sits flush with the body of the car.
8. Reattach the Assembly
Replace the plastic wingnuts or screws you removed earlier, turning them clockwise until they’re snug. Don’t overtighten, as this could crack the plastic.
9. Test the New Brake Light
Before closing everything up, it’s crucial to test the new brake light. Turn on your car, press the brake pedal, and have someone confirm that the new brake light is working properly.
10. Finish Up
If everything is working correctly, replace any fabric covers or panels you removed at the beginning. Close the trunk, and you’re done!
Remember, if at any point you feel unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic. They can ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Tips for Successful Brake Light Replacement
Replacing your brake light successfully involves more than just following the steps. Here are some valuable tips to ensure a smooth and effective replacement process:
1. Work in a well-lit area: Good lighting is crucial for seeing small parts and ensuring correct installation. If possible, work during daylight hours or use a bright portable light.
2. Organize your workspace: Keep your tools and the new bulb within easy reach. This organization will prevent you from having to search for items mid-process.
3. Handle bulbs carefully: Always handle the new bulb with clean gloves or a lint-free cloth. Oils from your skin can cause the bulb to burn out prematurely if they come in contact with the glass surface.
4. Check both brake lights: If one brake light has burned out, the other may not be far behind. Consider replacing both at the same time to save future effort.
5. Inspect the socket: While you have the assembly open, check the bulb socket for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean it gently if necessary.
6. Don’t force anything: If a part doesn’t seem to fit or move as expected, stop and reassess. Forcing components can lead to damage.
7. Keep track of screws: Place any screws or fasteners you remove in a small container to prevent losing them.
8. Check for moisture: Look for any signs of moisture in the taillight assembly. If present, this could indicate a seal problem that needs addressing.
9. Consider upgrading: While replacing your brake light, you might want to consider upgrading to LED bulbs for longer life and brighter illumination. Ensure any upgrades are street legal in your area.
10. Document the process: Take photos or notes as you go. This documentation can be helpful if you need to repeat the process in the future.
11. Double-check compatibility: Before starting, verify that the replacement bulb matches the specifications for your 2016 Ford Focus. Using the wrong bulb type can lead to poor performance or electrical issues.
12. Test thoroughly: After replacement, test your brake lights in various conditions – during the day, at night, and in low light situations to ensure optimal visibility.
By following these tips, you’ll not only successfully replace your brake light but also potentially prevent future issues and ensure your 2016 Ford Focus remains safe on the road.
FAQs About How To Replace Brake Light On 2016 Ford Focus
- How often should I replace my Ford Focus brake lights?
Replace them as soon as you notice they’re not working, typically every 2-3 years. - Can I replace just one brake light or should I replace both?
It’s recommended to replace both for even illumination and to save time in the future. - What tools do I need to replace a brake light on a 2016 Ford Focus?
You’ll need a screwdriver, safety gloves, and the correct replacement bulb (usually P21W or 7506). - How much does it cost to replace a brake light on a 2016 Ford Focus?
DIY replacement typically costs $10-$20 for the bulb, while professional service may cost $50-$100. - Is it legal to drive with a broken brake light?
No, driving with a broken brake light is illegal and unsafe in most jurisdictions.