Auto Repair Help & Tips

How to replace a headlight in a modern vehicle

Losing a headlight bulb can be costly—if the police pull you over for it. But it’s a heck-of-a-lot cheaper if you do it yourself. In modern vehicles with plastic encased headlamps, headlight bulbs are also easy and quick to replace. In fact, most headlight bulbs are replaceable with virtually no tools and a quick trip to an auto parts shop.

The first step is to remove the broken bulb. Do this by opening up your vehicle’s hood and find the back of the broken headlight. Remove the plug connected to the headlight. This is the light’s power supply. Next remove any clips that secure the light bulb in place. If there are no clips, try gingerly rotating the light bulb holder until it comes loose.

How to replace a side-view mirror on a 2002-2005 Ford Ranger

Objects in mirror may have thematic elements if you are ashamed of yourself. Image courtesy of skidmore.edu

So you woke up this morning to find that someone clipped your Ford Ranger last night and ripped the mirror off. Sucks, right—it could be worse, this is pretty easy to fix. Particularly if you have manual mirrors, the hardest part is taking off the door panel. All you need are Philips-head and Torx screwdrivers, a 10mm and 11mm socket wrench, and a new mirror kit. You should be able to buy a kit at your nearest auto parts store. However, check online or call ahead to make sure they have the part you need. And remember, a driver’s side mirror won’t fit on the passenger’s side and vice-versa.

How to change rear brake shoes on a Ford Ranger 1998-2003

Lately you’ve noticed a chatter when you step on the brakes in your Ford Ranger—not enough to warrant real worry that they may just stop working while you’re on a steep slope, but enough to make you wonder if it’s time to get them changed. That and you noticed that the emergency brake is sticking a lot more than it should. These are two symptoms of brake wear and should warn you that it’s time to change your brake shoes. You can take your truck to a mechanic or a dealership and pay anywhere from $100 to $300 to replace your brakes, or you can do it just as easily for $60 or less by buying the parts yourself and spending an afternoon with your truck.