Tail Light Bulbs
Eye Protection
Nitrile Gloves
Trim Tool
Screwdrivers
Step 1: Remove Tail Light Assembly Screws
Open the trunk and use a small flathead screwdriver to open the two circular covers on the inside panel of the assembly. With those open, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the assembly.
Step 2: Remove the Push Pins
Inside the trunk, behind the tail light assembly, remove the two push pins using a trim tool.
Step 3: Move the Trunk Liner Aside
Pull back the trunk liner behind the tail light assembly to access the plug for the wiring harness.
Step 4: Disconnect the Wiring Harness
Use a small flathead screwdriver to disengage the lock on the harness, then push in on the tab to unplug it.
Step 5: Remove the Tail Light Assembly
Now use a trim tool to gently pry the tail light assembly out from the vehicle, starting at the inside panel. The whole assembly should release directly toward the rear of the car. Remove the rubber grommet from the opening in the body and carefully pull the wiring harness through the opening.
Step 6: Remove the Socket from the Assembly
To remove the tail light bulb from the assembly, turn the socket counterclockwise and carefully pull it out.
Step 7: Remove the Bulb from the Socket
To remove the bulb from the socket, gently pull directly out on it.
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Do It Right: When you install your new bulb, make sure to wear clean gloves and avoid touching the glass with your bare hands. Finger oils or grease can create hot spots on the glass and cause it to burn out prematurely. |
Step 8: Install the New Bulb
Push your new bulb into the socket, then install the bulb and socket in the assembly by aligning its tabs with their openings, then turning it clockwise to secure it.
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Do It Right: When you install your new bulb, make sure to wear clean gloves and avoid touching the glass with your bare hands. Finger oils or grease can create hot spots on the glass and cause it to burn out prematurely. |
Step 9: Reinstall the Assembly
Feed the wiring harness back through the opening in the body and install the grommet, making sure it seals the opening. Align the plastic tabs on the inside of the assembly with their openings on the body, then push the assembly into place, making sure you don’t pinch any wiring.
Step 10: Secure the Assembly
Once the assembly is in place, secure it using the two screws you removed earlier, then snap the covers back down.
Step 11: Reconnect the Wiring Harness
Back in the trunk, reconnect the wiring harness. Once it clicks into place, be sure to engage the connector lock.
Step 12: Reinstall the Trunk Liner
Reposition the liner behind the tail light assembly, making sure its edge is under the weather stripping. Reinstall the two push pins to secure the liner.
Step 13: Change the Bulb on the Other Side
Repeat these steps on the other side, and close the trunk.
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Do It Right: It’s a good idea to change tail light bulbs in pairs, since they’re likely the same age. |
The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.