How do I replace the bulb on my taillight (pass. side brake light)? - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

2000-Avalon · 12-12-2010, 02:14 PM

Hi fellas,

I have a burnt bulb on my taillight on the passanger side. The dash light came on because of it.

I've never replaced a bulb before... do I need to remove the taillight or no?

How would I replace the bulb? What kind of tools do I need and what is that number of the bulb that I need? Anything I should watch out for before I do this?

Thanks so much for the help!

2000-Avalon · 12-12-2010, 04:59 PM

Nobody knows this?

Chris Crash · 12-12-2010, 05:25 PM

Open the trunk. Remove the black plastic cover over the corner. Remove the carpet if there's any there (can't remember). Grab the bulb, turn and pull out. I THINK it's 1157. But just go to Advance or AutoZone, pull the bulb out in the parking lot, bring it inside. Buy new one. Put it in.

2000-Avalon · 12-12-2010, 05:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris Crash

Open the trunk. Remove the black plastic cover over the corner. Remove the carpet if there's any there (can't remember). Grab the bulb, turn and pull out. I THINK it's 1157. But just go to Advance or AutoZone, pull the bulb out in the parking lot, bring it inside. Buy new one. Put it in.

Thank you!

Do you remember what size socket is used to remove the plastic panel? Or do I need a philips screwdriver?

Chris Crash · 12-12-2010, 05:47 PM

I believe it's neither. There's a giant screw/hook looking thing that you just unscrew. There MIGHT be phillips head annoying plastic clips that you turn 1/4 turn then pull out on the bottom, I can't remember....

2000-Avalon · 12-12-2010, 05:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris Crash

I believe it's neither. There's a giant screw/hook looking thing that you just unscrew. There MIGHT be phillips head annoying plastic clips that you turn 1/4 turn then pull out on the bottom, I can't remember....

Thanks again for your help!

Buurin · 12-12-2010, 06:17 PM

The definitive answer:

Open the trunk. You need to undo a plastic cover. Pop some clips by unscrewing them 1/4 turn then pull. Pry back the cover by hand. Find the bulb that burned, grab the base, twist left 1/8 turn and pull. It's a 3157 bulb that pulls straight out, push straight in. That light you saw on the dash will light up if you try to put a LED bulb there. You have been warned.