Brake Light Socket Repair Cost Guide
Basic Socket Replacement
A straightforward brake light socket replacement typically takes 0.5-1 hour of labor. Expected cost:$62.50-$125plus parts ($10-20 for basic socket).
Wiring Harness Repair with Socket
When the wiring harness connected to the socket needs repair, labor time increases to 1-2 hours. Expected cost:$125-$250plus parts ($25-50 for harness and socket).
Complete Assembly Replacement
For vehicles requiring entire tail light assembly replacement to fix socket issues, labor time is typically 1.5-2.5 hours. Expected cost:$187.50-$312.50plus parts ($50-200 for assembly, depending on vehicle).
Note: Prices may vary based on vehicle make/model and extent of damage. Additional costs may apply if corrosion or water damage is present. All estimates include our standard labor rate of $125/hour.
Common Additional Services:
- Electrical system diagnostic: $62.50 (0.5 hour)
- Water damage remediation: $125 (1 hour)
- Corrosion cleanup and prevention: $62.50 (0.5 hour)
Brake Light Socket Repair Procedures
Pigtail Socket Repair
Tools needed:Wire strippers, electrical tape or heat shrink tubing, crimping tool, replacement pigtail socket
Steps:
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery
- Remove the tail light assembly to access the socket
- Disconnect the damaged pigtail socket from the wiring harness
- Strip the wires on both the new pigtail and existing harness
- Match and connect corresponding wires using crimp connectors
- Insulate connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
- Test the connection before fully reassembling
Plug-In Socket Repair
Tools needed:Basic hand tools, replacement plug-in socket
Steps:
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery
- Remove the tail light assembly
- Release the locking tab on the old socket
- Unplug the socket from the housing
- Insert new socket until it clicks into place
- Verify proper seating and connection
- Test functionality before final assembly
Built-In Socket Repair
Tools needed:Screwdrivers, replacement tail light assembly
Steps:
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery
- Remove the entire tail light assembly
- Purchase complete new tail light assembly (socket cannot be replaced separately)
- Install new tail light assembly
- Connect wiring harness
- Test all lighting functions
- Secure assembly to vehicle
Important Safety Notes:
- Always work with a disconnected battery to prevent electrical shorts
- Ensure all connections are weatherproof to prevent corrosion
- Check local regulations regarding brake light repairs
- If unsure, consult a professional mechanic
Note: These procedures may vary depending on vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions.
Understanding Brake Light Sockets
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Common Brake Light Socket Failure Symptoms
Common Brake Light Socket Issues & Maintenance Guide
1. Standard Brake Light Socket
- Signs of failure:
- Corroded or burnt terminals
- Melted plastic housing
- Loose connection to bulb
- Intermittent brake light operation
- Service schedule: Inspect every 30,000 miles or when replacing brake lights
- Signs of failure:
- Partial LED failure
- Flickering lights
- Water intrusion
- Circuit board corrosion
- Service schedule: Generally lifetime warranty, but inspect during annual vehicle maintenance
- Signs of failure:
- Frayed or exposed wires
- Brittle wire insulation
- Poor connection at terminal points
- Visible wire oxidation
- Service schedule: Check every 50,000 miles or if experiencing electrical issues
- Signs of failure:
- Cracked weather seals
- Water accumulation inside housing
- Rusty contacts
- Failed rubber gaskets
- Service schedule: Inspect seals annually, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions
2. LED Brake Light Socket
3. Pigtail Socket Connector
4. Weatherproof Socket Assembly
Note: These are general guidelines. Actual service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
