Countless components make up your car, so it can be easy to neglect a few. Your tail lights, for example, don’t require much maintenance other than the occasional light bulb change. But if this critical component is damaged, should you try to repair it or are you better off buying a used tail light? Here’s what you need to know about this car part so you can make an informed decision.

Your tail lights play an important role in keeping you and other drivers safe on the road. The red lens indicates to other drivers when you are braking, signaling them to stop as well. However, light bulb outages or a cracked or broken lens can hamper this function. When moisture gets into the tail light through a crack, additional corrosion may occur and cause further damage. Driving without a functioning tail light could also get you ticketed, resulting in a fine.

Depending on the damage, you may repair the tail light rather than buy a replacement. Naturally, a dead light bulb can be replaced. Small cracks in the lens cover can be fixed using specialized red lens repair tape or a plastic resin that seals up the crack.

For larger cracks, a completely broken lens cover, or corroded wiring that keeps your light from working, buying a used tail light is ideal. A replacement tail light isn’t susceptible to further environmental damage and can be attached to your vehicle with relative ease. For older cars, purchasing a used tail light from a salvage yard is an affordable way of finding the needed part.

Stay safe on the road by addressing your tail light. Whether you’re looking for a used tail light or need to sell your junk car, Stewart’s Used Auto Parts in Barkhamsted, CT, can help. As a member of the Automotive Recyclers Association, you can trust their team to provide premium service and sell only top-quality used auto parts. To learn more about their available inventory and services, visit them online or call (800) 726-0871 today.