How can I fix the brake light on a 2000 Ford Escort?

My girlfriend's car has had the same problem, TWICE with the same right rear light. But you're right, once you get the screws out, it still won't budge. Here's what is going on. Get inside your trunk, and pull the carpet away from the body to expose the metal area where you're light is at. If you look closely, there are either 2 or 3 retaining clips. What these look like are plastic, black rectangular pieces (would take up an area of an american quarter) with "wings". It'll be a pain, but you'll have to squeeze those wings together and push the plastic red cover (which is attached to the clips) out at the same time. Best to due this in the summer. In the winter, that sucker will snap in two and you'll be really screwed then.

H. McCartney
December 2004

you do it from in the boot the whole assembly just unclips

RS
October 2004