1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Park your car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. It's a good idea to disconnect the negative terminal of your battery to prevent accidental shorts.
* Gather Supplies: You'll need a new turn signal bulb (check your owner's manual for the correct type, or consult a parts store). You might also need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool, depending on the bulb socket design.
2. Accessing the Bulb:
This is the most model-specific step. There are typically two ways to access the front turn signal bulbs on a 1990 Eldorado:
* Through the wheel well: This is the *most common* method. You'll need to carefully remove the inner fender liner (often held in place with clips and screws). This gives access to the back of the headlight assembly. Once you have access, you should see the turn signal bulb socket.
* Through the front bumper: Some models might require partial or full removal of the front bumper. This is more involved and requires more tools. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1990 Eldorado model to determine if this is necessary.
3. Bulb Replacement:
Once you have access to the bulb socket:
* Disconnect the electrical connector: Carefully unplug the electrical connector from the back of the bulb socket.
* Remove the bulb: The bulb is usually held in place by a simple twist-and-pull mechanism, a bayonet mount, or a retaining clip. Carefully twist or push to release the old bulb. If you're unsure, check a repair manual for specifics.
* Install the new bulb: Insert the new bulb, making sure it's properly seated and aligned.
* Reconnect the electrical connector: Plug the connector back onto the bulb.
4. Reassembly:
* Replace the fender liner (if removed): Carefully re-install the inner fender liner, making sure all clips and screws are properly secured.
* Re-install the bumper (if removed): Re-install the front bumper following the reverse procedure of removal.
5. Test:
Reconnect the battery negative terminal. Turn on your turn signals to verify the new bulb is working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1990 Cadillac Eldorado is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions, significantly simplifying the process and preventing damage. You can find these online or at auto parts stores.
* Bulb Type: Be sure to purchase the correct bulb type. The wrong bulb can cause issues or not fit properly.
* Headlight Assembly: In some cases, you might need to remove the entire headlight assembly to access the turn signal bulb. Again, a repair manual will guide you through this.
If you're not comfortable working on your car yourself, it's always best to take it to a qualified mechanic. Improper repair can lead to further damage or injury.
