99 Sienna Brake Bulb replacement

[jimi]

I've replaced many a brakelight bulb in many vehicles, but my 99 Sienna seems a little different. I need to replace the brakelight that is in the liftgate section. I have removed the one visible bolt but the brakelight housing will hardly move at all. I hope I don't have to remove all the interior lining to get to this thing. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

[enviro119]

I have the same problem on my 98 sienna. I started to try take the hatch cover off but I fear i am going to break it. If you find out how pls let me know - Thxs


Update: Lesson # 1 - always check ownership manual first - and yes you have to take hatch cover off

[lsac]

The take off rear corner lights, you must slide a string or wire into side gap to pull off light after removing the bolt. If you need to change bulbs on lift gate, back panel has 3 screw to take off. Then pop off the back panel carefully.

[renegade141]

the rear corner lights just pops off after taking the bolts off. jus pull on it with your hands.
as for the gate, after taking all the screws off from the handle, pull from the top corners, and its jus clips holding it on. when putting it back on , jus make sure all the plastic clips are on the plastic , not the metal gate, and pop it in by jus hitting it.

[rchas]

For my '99, I had to remove the liftgate's top, sides and bottom trim. First removed assist handle 2 screws and strap's 1 screw. With $8 trim tool and small screwdriver, found 5 clips on narrow top piece, 3 on each side piece, 4 along top of bottom piece, plus 2 each side. Bulb socket twists out.