Tools You'll Need:
* Phillips head screwdriver (possibly a small one)
* New brake light bulb (Make sure you get the correct wattage and type. Check your owner's manual or the old bulb for the correct specification.)
Steps:
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake firmly. If working at night or in low-light conditions, use caution and make sure the area is well-lit.
2. Access the Taillight Assembly: You'll usually need to access the taillight assembly from the inside of the trunk. Open the trunk.
3. Remove the Taillight Assembly (This is the trickiest part and varies slightly by vehicle): There are usually screws or clips holding the taillight assembly in place. Look closely around the edges of the taillight housing. You might find:
* Screws: These are often located on the inside edges of the taillight housing, sometimes hidden behind a small access panel. Carefully remove these screws.
* Clips: Some models use plastic clips to hold the assembly. These may need to be gently pried loose using a flat-head screwdriver or trim tool. Be very careful not to break them. Start at one corner and work your way around, gently releasing the clips.
4. Disconnect the Electrical Connector: Once the taillight assembly is loose, carefully disconnect the electrical connector from the back of the light assembly. There's usually a tab or latch that you need to release.
5. Remove the Old Bulb: The bulb socket is usually held in place by a twist-lock mechanism or a simple push-pull setup. Refer to your owner's manual to see how the socket is removed. Once the bulb socket is free, carefully remove the burnt-out bulb. Be careful not to touch the glass portion of the bulb with your bare hands, as the oils from your skin can shorten its lifespan.
6. Install the New Bulb: Insert the new bulb into the socket, ensuring it's properly seated and locked into place.
7. Reconnect the Electrical Connector: Carefully plug the electrical connector back onto the taillight assembly.
8. Reinstall the Taillight Assembly: Carefully put the taillight assembly back into place, aligning it with the body of the car. If there were screws, replace them securely. If there were clips, make sure they're all snapped back into place.
9. Test the Brake Light: Close the trunk and test the brake lights by stepping on the brake pedal. Make sure the new bulb is working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* If you're unsure about any step, consult your owner's manual or seek professional help from a mechanic. Attempting repairs beyond your skill level can damage your vehicle.
* If the brake light still doesn't work after replacing the bulb, there might be a problem with the wiring or a fuse. Check your owner's manual for the location of the fuse box and the correct fuse for the taillights.
This is a general guide. Pictures or videos specific to a 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora would be incredibly helpful in accurately completing this task. Searching YouTube for "2002 Oldsmobile Aurora taillight replacement" might yield helpful visual guides. Remember to always prioritize safety.
