Where do I start to replace a burnt out taillight? Replacing a burnt out tail light is as easy as burning toast. The most difficult thing is getting to it to replace it. On some models you have to unscrew the red or white plastic lens from the outside; others, you can only get at the bulb from the inside the trunk. How do you know? Use your eyes. If you don't see any screws on the lens, it is a safe bet that you are dealing with an inside job. There is usually a plastic cover that must be removed in order to access the bulb. You may also run into tabs, screws or small knobs that hold this plastic cover in place.