Ford Explorer Tail Light Lens Replacement

[Rich P]

In a parking lot this morning somebody apparently clipped the tail light lens on my 2005 Explorer, probably with the passenger mirror. Just broken plastic, no body damage, thank goodnes, and the lights still work. No note was left. I figure it won't get anywhere near my deductible so no point in filing a claim.

Looks like there are two screws accessible by opening the hatch which will release the light assembly. I assume that the lens itself is held in place by screws from the back of the assembly. Amazon has an OEM replacement lens for about $35 delivered.

So, two questions:

1. Is the replacement of the lens as simple as it appears?

2. Is there any reason to avoid the Amazon aftermarket lens?

Just trying to save a few bucks which I may get the LOML to allow me to add to my tool budget!

TIA

Rich

[tlt]

I've replaced the lens on a 1998 Explorer, and in that case, it really was that simple. I bought a non-OEM replacements lens for about $20 off ebay. It's been two years in the desert sun, and no fading/warping/etc, so you should do just fine.

[cabinetman]

I had to do a 2007, and it was very simple. (here's the thread) A couple of screws from inside the gate opening, and place light harness sockets in the holes.
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[tommyt654]

I,d check a local junkyard before ordering 1, probably $20 cheaper

[Uncle Cracker]

I,d check a local junkyard before ordering 1, probably $20 cheaper

You'd think so, but junkyard parts are usually priced by a percentage of the OEM part, usually 50%. But OEM parts prices are so inflated that a new non-OEM part is often the cheaper way to go. Sucks, but true.

[Rich P]

My SIL ex-mechanic said the same thing (about scrap yards) and in the next breath talked about how you can't find anything there anymore, especially late models. I could probably spent a day looking in scrap yards, but you can't find any here in Silicon Valley. I could also drive for an hour or so and come up empty. Still looking for more info.

[Hoover]

In a previous job, we sold truck and trailer parts. Look for a D.O.T # on the housing. If it has DOT you are good to go. (Dept. of Trans#)

[LinuxRandal]

The only thing I have to add (don't have one), is if it doesn't have external screws (outside, not in tailgate area), a lot of times there will be two alignment pins that also help hold it in place. (if never been off, they may still fit tight)

While late models in a junkyard are hard to find (and high unless you know someone or get lucky in a Uwrenchit style), if it is a common problem lens (circuit board style) then you might even find it available at your local autoparts store.
And make sure the colors match before ordering. (had a friend order a lens for her truck, but they used the next model year lens (different) in it).

[dbhost]

Try to get a junk yard lens instead of aftermarket. Most of the aftermarket light assemblies I have used have leaked. I need to try to find a drivers side fog light assembly for my 2004 F-150 as it fills with water every time it rains and blows the bulb out.

The lens assemblies from Hella and Bosch are both top notch if you are going to go aftermarket. I would LOVE a set of smoked Hella headlight and taillight assemblies.

[Rich P]

Fixed!

FWIW, the replacement took all of about 2 minutes. Removed the two phillips head screws on the side jamb of the rear hatch at which point the old lens was fairly loose. Just pulled it out...there is only a single ringed metal post that slides into a fitting on the body of the Explorer. Twisted the two bulb assemblies out of the broken lens and into the new one and reversed the removal steps.

Wound up buying via eBay...higher rated sellers with more volume and a better price than Amazon...$39 delivered including CA sales tax. Local Ford dealer wanted $81 plus tax. Ordered it Tuesday AM, it shipped that afternoon and was delivered around 3:00 PM on Friday. I just love this internet thingy!

[cabinetman]

When I had to replace mine, I couldn't find one online. They weren't available at any auto parts stores, only at the dealer. Didn't like spending the money, but it was a time and convenience thing.
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[Rich P]

Was chatting with a friend at dinner on Saturday and according to him the instructions for removing the lens to replace bulbs are in the owner's manual. Since it turns out the lens and the light assembly are one unit, this makes sense. As we used to say in the IT world,"RTFM"!

[cabinetman]

Was chatting with a friend at dinner on Saturday and according to him the instructions for removing the lens to replace bulbs are in the owner's manual. Since it turns out the lens and the light assembly are one unit, this makes sense. As we used to say in the IT world,"RTFM"!

Yeah, but that's too easy.
.

[clarkandrew45]

In a parking lot this morning somebody apparently clipped the tail light lens on my 2005 Explorer, probably with the passenger mirror. Just broken plastic, no body damage, thank goodnes, and the lights still work. No note was left. I figure it won't get anywhere near my deductible so no point in filing a claim.

Rich

The replacement of this is not that easy. I remember when my brother need to replace his tail light lens, he actually bought OEM from Ebay for $20 quite expensive.

In a parking lot this morning somebody apparently clipped the tail light lens on my 2005 Explorer, probably with the passenger mirror. Just broken plastic, no body damage, thank goodnes, and the lights still work. No note was left. I figure it won't get anywhere near my deductible so no point in filing a claim.

Looks like there are two screws accessible by opening the hatch which will release the light assembly. I assume that the lens itself is held in place by screws from the back of the assembly. Amazon has an OEM replacement lens for about $35 delivered.

So, two questions:

1. Is the replacement of the lens as simple as it appears?

2. Is there any reason to avoid the Amazon aftermarket lens?

Just trying to save a few bucks which I may get the LOML to allow me to add to my tool budget!

TIA

Rich

Changing the tail light lens is not easy as you think. I had the same problem before and I need to visit the autoshop just to repair my tail light lens.

[Black wallnut]

clarkandrew45 welcome to BT3Central! Please note that as a new member your first few posts require moderator approval prior to being visable to the public. Please also note that it is usually best to read the complete thread prior to submitting a reply. That way you can avoid embarassment. Note post #10 above where the OP (origional poster) describes in detail that he has indeed fixed his problem and that it was also just that simple as to remove two screws.