What is a Tail Light Cover?
A tail light cover is a piece of plastic or glass that covers the taillight of your car. It helps protect the bulb and wiring from debris and water, and also provides a neat, finished look to the back of your car. The tail light cover is typically part of the car’s body, and is attached with a few screws.
Why Do Tail Light Covers Crack?
Tail light covers can crack for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is general wear and tear from normal use, as the plastic or glass can become brittle over time. Other common causes include impacts from rocks and pebbles kicked up by the road, or even more severe impacts from a minor accident.
How Can You Tell if Your Tail Light Cover is Cracked?
If your tail light cover is cracked, you may notice a few different signs. The most obvious sign is a visible crack in the cover. Other signs include a dim light or flickering, which can indicate an electrical problem caused by a cracked cover. You may also notice moisture or condensation inside the cover, which is a sign that it is no longer properly sealed.
How to Repair a Cracked Tail Light Cover
If you have determined that your tail light cover is cracked, there are a few different methods for repairing it.
1. Replace the Cover
The most effective way to repair a cracked tail light cover is to simply replace it with a new one. You can buy a new tail light cover from most auto parts stores, and it is relatively inexpensive. You will need to remove the old cover and install the new one, which is a fairly simple process.
2. Use a Repair Kit
If you don’t want to replace the cover, you can use a repair kit to fix the crack. These kits typically include a few different components, such as a sealant, a hardener, and a curing agent. The sealant is applied to the crack, and then the hardener and curing agent are added to create a strong bond. These kits are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most auto parts stores.
3. Use Super Glue
If you don’t want to buy a repair kit, you can use super glue to fix the crack. Super glue is an effective adhesive and can be used to fill in the crack and seal it. You will need to apply multiple layers of super glue to ensure that the crack is completely sealed.
4. Use Tape
If you don’t want to use a repair kit or super glue, you can also use tape to repair the crack. This method is not as effective as the other methods, but it can be used in a pinch. The tape should be securely applied to the crack, and then covered with a layer of plastic or rubber to ensure that it is sealed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my tail light cover is cracked?
A: If your tail light cover is cracked, you may notice a few different signs. The most obvious sign is a visible crack in the cover. Other signs include a dim light or flickering, which can indicate an electrical problem caused by a cracked cover. You may also notice moisture or condensation inside the cover, which is a sign that it is no longer properly sealed.
Q: How can I repair a cracked tail light cover?
A: If you have determined that your tail light cover is cracked, there are a few different methods for repairing it. You can replace the cover, use a repair kit, use super glue, or use tape.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a tail light cover?
A: The cost of replacing a tail light cover varies depending on the make and model of your car. However, most covers are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most auto parts stores.
Q: Is it safe to drive with a cracked tail light cover?
A: It is not safe to drive with a cracked tail light cover, as the crack can cause electrical problems that can affect the performance of your vehicle. If your tail light cover is cracked, it should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.