How to Replace Hummer Tail Lights

Hummer tail light out? You can repair it yourself in just a few minutes!
Written by Jessie Devine
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
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If your Hummer tail light has stopped working, try replacing the bulb. It will probably solve the problem, and you can do it at home to save time and money.
Hummers are tough, but even the tough guys need repairs now and then. Luckily, fixing a burnt-out tail light is pretty easy and it doesn’t cost too much (certainly less than the ticket you might get for driving around with a broken one!). All you have to do is grab a few tools and the replacement bulb and you can get started.
Not sure how? No problem.
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How to replace a Hummer tail light

Cost: $7-$25
Time: 10 to 30 minutes
Tools needed: Goggles, gloves, screwdriver, wrench, replacement parts (like bulbs)
Difficulty: Easy
When your Hummer
brake light bulb
goes out, you should fix it as soon as possible to avoid accidents and tickets. 
The first step is to find the source of the problem. The most common cause of a faulty Hummer tail light is a burnt-out bulb. Fortunately, this is also the quickest, cheapest problem to solve.
If you notice that both Hummer tail lights are out or other lights on your vehicle have also been affected, you could have a blown fuse or wiring problem. If that’s not it, the issue could go all the way back to the control switch. You may need a professional’s opinion if you can’t identify the problem yourself. 
Right now we’ll look at solving the most common cause of your Hummer tail light going out—a burnt-out light bulb. The first step is to find the correct replacement bulb.
Remember that even simple parts can vary between models. Depending on their year and
trim level
, Hummer H2 tail lights will differ from
Hummer H3
tail lights, so make sure you’re purchasing the right set. You can find this info in your owner's manual or online.
Once you’ve found the correct bulb, follow these steps:
  • Disconnect the battery. You risk getting shocked if you don’t.
  • Access the tail light assembly. This varies slightly between
    Hummer H2
    tail lights and Hummer H3 tail lights, but basically you want to open the trunk and remove the screws next to the broken light.
  • Next, you’ll need to pull out the tail light. In the H2, you have to remove the panel above it first.
  • Note the metal clips or pegs holding it in place for when you have to put it back.
  • Remove the bulb socket by turning it counterclockwise. 
  • Remove the old bulb from the socket.
  • Put on gloves to handle the new bulb so you don’t smudge or damage it.
  • Insert the new replacement bulb into the old socket.
  • Reinstall the socket, the tail light assembly, and the screws.
  • Reconnect the battery and test your new Hummer tail light.
If you replace your Hummer tail light bulb and it still doesn’t work, you may have a bigger issue that requires an expert fix. If you need to, you can also replace the entire tail light assembly—but you should double-check with a mechanic before investing the time and money into doing this.
Key Takeaway If you have a Hummer tail light out, start by replacing the bulb for a quick and easy fix.

Commons reasons for Hummer tail light malfunctions

If you went off-roading in your Hummer and kicked up a rock that smashed your tail light casing, it’s easy to see why the tail light isn’t working. But sometimes the answer isn’t so obvious, and if that applies to you, take a look at this list:
  • Dead bulb: Tail light bulbs have delicate filaments that burn out easily. This is usually the problem if you only have one tail light out.
  • Faulty wiring or fuses: If you change the bulb and it doesn’t help or both your tail lights are out, a wiring or fuse problem could be the problem.
  • Damaged socket: Moisture can cause light bulb sockets to corrode, which will stop the light from working. Look for discoloration and build-up to catch this problem.
  • Broken control switch: If you’ve tried everything else with no luck, it’s possible that you’ve got a broken control switch. Take your car to a mechanic if you’re not sure. 

Does car insurance cover broken tail lights? 

If your policy covers whatever broke your Hummer tail light, you can get coverage for the repair—but you probably shouldn’t file a claim
Car insurance pays to repair damage caused by hazards covered by your policy. For example,
collision coverage
will cover a broken tail light caused by a collision with a stationary object or another car, and
comprehensive coverage
will cover broken tail lights caused by vandalism or an “act of God” like a natural disaster.
If you have the coverage, why shouldn’t you use it? In this case, your insurance likely won’t cover the cost of the repair because of your deductible. The average
car insurance deductible
is $500, and a simple tail light repair costs much less. That means your insurance won’t kick in, and you’ll have made a claim for nothing. 
If that wasn’t enough, you may see your insurance premiums rise if you make a claim, so all in all, it’s not worth it.

How to find affordable Hummer insurance

Hummer drivers pay nearly $2,000 per year for full coverage car insurance. With Jerry, you could be paying a lot less for the same coverage.
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FAQs

If you replace your Hummer H2 tail light bulb or Hummer H3 tail light bulb at home, it’ll set you back between $7 and $25 depending on the bulb you buy.
Yes, and you should! Replacing your Hummer tail light is a quick and easy fix, and it’s a great repair for beginners because it’s hard to do it wrong. Give it a try, and you’ll save a lot of money.
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