1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the vehicle. Wear safety glasses.
* Gather Tools: You'll likely need a Phillips head screwdriver (possibly a Torx driver depending on the year), and potentially a trim tool or panel pry tool to avoid scratching the plastic.
2. Accessing the Tail Light:
* Interior Access (Most Likely): Open the rear hatch/trunk. The Rendezvous usually requires accessing the tail light from the inside of the vehicle. You'll find a panel covering the back of the tail light assembly.
* Locate the Access Panel: This panel is typically held in place by several screws or clips.
* Remove the Access Panel: Carefully remove the screws or gently pry the clips using a trim tool to avoid damaging the plastic. Work slowly and steadily to prevent breakage.
3. Removing the Tail Light Assembly:
* Disconnect the Electrical Connector: Once the access panel is removed, you'll see the tail light assembly. Locate the electrical connector plugged into the back of the light. Gently push or squeeze the release tab on the connector and pull it away from the light assembly.
* Remove the Tail Light Screws: There will be screws (usually 2-3) holding the tail light assembly in place. Carefully remove these screws.
* Remove the Tail Light Assembly: Gently pull the tail light assembly away from the vehicle body. There might be some resistance, but it should come out without excessive force.
4. Installing the New Tail Light:
* Install the New Assembly: Carefully align the new tail light assembly and push it firmly into place.
* Secure with Screws: Replace the screws you removed earlier.
* Reconnect the Electrical Connector: Make sure the electrical connector is firmly seated back onto the new tail light assembly.
* Replace the Access Panel: Put the access panel back in place and secure it with the screws or clips.
5. Test:
* Turn on your lights: Check that the new tail light is functioning correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Year Specifics: The exact location of screws, clips, and access panels can vary slightly between model years (2002-2007). A quick online search for "20XX Buick Rendezvous tail light replacement" (replace XX with your year) will likely yield videos or diagrams specific to your vehicle.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A repair manual for your specific year and model Rendezvous will provide detailed, illustrated instructions. This is the best way to avoid damage.
* Damaged Clips: Be very gentle when prying clips. If they break, you might need replacements. Auto parts stores typically sell replacement clips.
If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This is a relatively simple job, but damaging plastic parts can be frustrating and costly.
