Electrical problem
1999 Ford Ranger 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Manual 122275 miles

The third brake light is out. I tried to take the lens off on the outside but I couldn't get it off. I was told that I have to take the inside light housing down, loosen the fabris headliner to get to the socket that holds the bulb. Is this so? I don't really want to lossen the headliner for fear of not being able to get it in its original position. Is there any other way?...thanks ever so much....D. Renee