1. Open the Trunk: Start by opening the trunk of your Buick Regal Custom.
2. Locate the Light: The third brake light is usually integrated into the rear window, either directly on the glass itself or in a housing directly above or below the rear window. Look carefully; it might be recessed.
3. Remove the Interior Trim: This is where it gets specific to the year of your Regal. There will likely be a trim panel or some sort of covering (plastic or possibly fabric) either directly above or below the brake light assembly that needs to be removed to access it. This might involve:
* Unscrewing clips: Look for small screws or clips holding the trim piece in place. A trim removal tool is helpful to avoid scratching the plastic.
* Pulling gently: Sometimes the panels are simply clipped in and can be removed by gently pulling outwards. Start at a corner and work your way around.
* Disconnecting electrical connectors: Once you remove the trim, there will likely be electrical connectors attached to the brake light. Gently unplug these connectors before removing the light assembly completely.
4. Remove the Brake Light Assembly: Once the trim is removed, the brake light itself might be held in place with screws or clips. Carefully remove these fasteners to access the light bulb.
Important Considerations:
* Year of the vehicle: The exact procedure will vary depending on the model year of your Buick Regal Custom. Finding a repair manual specific to your year is highly recommended. You can often find these online (e.g., Haynes or Chilton manuals).
* Care: Be gentle when removing trim and the light assembly to avoid breaking any clips or damaging the surrounding panels.
* Electricity: Disconnect any electrical connectors before doing any work to avoid short circuits.
If you're unsure about any step, it's always best to consult a repair manual or take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge can lead to damage.