Tail Lamp: Service and Repair

Taillight Replacement

NOTE: When replacing the bulb for the back-up light or the rear turn signal light, skip steps 2 and 3.

1. Open the hatch.

2. Remove the cargo area side trim panel Interior Trim Removal / Installation - Cargo Areas.

3. Disconnect the taillight 5P connector (A).






4. Release the clips (A) by pushing the upper side (B) of the bezel cover (C).






5. Carefully pry off the clips (D) with a trim-removal tool or flat-tip screwdriver.

NOTE: When prying with a flat-tip screwdriver, wrap it with protective tape to prevent scratching the body or the taillight.

6. Release the clips (E) then (F) to remove the bezel cover.

NOTE: When installing, make sure that the bottom edge of the bezel cover aligns with the bumper line (G), to prevent clip (F) being damaged.

7. Remove the two bolts (A).






8. Carefully pull the taillight (A) outward until the bracket (B) lines up with the bumper line (C). Make sure the upper clip (D) is released.

NOTE: If the taillight is pulled out too far, the forward corner (E) could be damaged.






9. Slide a long, dog-leg clip remover in between the body and the taillight housing until reaches the notch (A) in the inner edge of the taillight housing. Lever the clip remover against the body to pry the forward clip (B) out, then remove the taillight.

NOTE: If the clip grommet (C) comes out of the body with the clip, remove it from the clip and place it back in the body.






10. Install the taillight in the reverse order of removal.