Replacing Center Rear Brake Light

[racerex]

So my center rear brake light (the LED under the rear package shelf) went out and I need to replace it. I reviewed my shop manual and it looks like a real PITA to get at it (i.e., remove rear seat, a boat-load of trim, etc.). Has anyone replaced it? If yes, can you offer any pointers….short-cuts, etc.? I called my local dealership and they want $145 for the LED. Can I find it cheaper anywhere else? Thanks in advance for the help!!!!

[inov8]

I checked the web site of a Toyota dealer in Texas who sells OEM parts by mail order at a discount (Toyota-parts.com). I have ordered parts from them in the past. The assembly is available in 4 different housing colors (charcoal, dark gray, light gray, and ivory) at prices from $83 to $85. List price is $108-$112, depending on color. Why the price is not the same for all colors is a mystery to me.

Regarding disassembly tips, I would bribe one of the technicians at your local Toyota dealer for advice. Up here in New England, you just have to approach the technicians smoking outside the shop with a box of donuts (a local form of currency) and strike up a conversation.

[grandpapa]

there are a few topics about the center brake light in this forum.
I just don't recall if there are any good DIY on how to remove/replace that stupid 3rd brake light.

Some people suggested hitting the light a few times with newspaper. Move it back and forth....
We have the same problem on our 06 but no time/$ to go to the dealer. Not even sure if the LED is gone or just some lose wire.

It will be great if someone can provide a good DIY on how to replace that center brake light.

[racerex]

Originally Posted by grandpapa

It will be great if someone can provide a good DIY on how to replace that center brake light.

That "someone" might end up being me.

Yeah, I did a search a saw the thread about giving the housing a few taps......I've yet to try that.

INOV8: I think that I found that very site a few minutes before seeing your post....the black one is listed for like $87. Yeah, hitting up one of the tech's might be the way to go.

[racerex]

After a few calls to Toyota NA, it turns out that my extended warranty will cover replacing the LED......so it's off to the dealership. They placed a note in their system under my VIN number to cover it. I'm going to make sure that the Service Writer at the dealership is aware of it.....as "bulbs" are not covered by the warrenty, but the LED is.

[grandpapa]

Originally Posted by racerex

After a few calls to Toyota NA, it turns out that my extended warranty will cover replacing the LED......so it's off to the dealership. They placed a note in their system under my VIN number to cover it. I'm going to make sure that the Service Writer at the dealership is aware of it.....as "bulbs" are not covered by the warrenty, but the LED is.

Luck you.
Did they tell you what's wrong? Lose wire? bad brake light unit? What did they do in order to fix the problem? Simply replace the whole thing?