I have a 04 LE and it's no problem replacing side marker bulbs.I take it you are talking about the front side marker bulbs. What's your problem? Turn the socket ninety degrees, replace bulb, replace socket and turn ninety degrees.

 

You are correct.........I am talking about the front side markers. They are not accessible from the front of the car. The headlights (running and hi beam) are BUT NOT the side markers. I have googled extensively on this and everyone is saying that you either have to go through the wheel well OR remove the bumper and grill. I have not been successful.

 

 

So I came across this vehicle before posting here and tried to do exactly what he did BUT for some reason, I just could NOT see the bulb (or maybe my arms are too short). I will get my mag light and try again. I hope that the vehicle in the video is a a 2005 Camry because I am losing my mind.

 

Going through the wheel well is how it's done on an '04 Solara, and it's really not that difficult. You don't have to remove the entire plastic wheel well liner, just pop a few of the fasteners toward the front outside edge, and you can get in.

That's how you get to all of the front and side facing lights in front.

 

Thank you. I will give it another shot. I just wonder out loud why in the world they would make this bulb so inaccessible. I really appreciate the motivation !!!!!!!!!!!!

 

I just wonder out loud why in the world they would make this bulb so inaccessible.

Just for the record, this is definitely not limited to Toyota. Part of it is just how tightly packed the engine bays of modern cars are and how that makes it very difficult to create access paths to things like the headlamps and other bulbs from within the engine bay itself.

The 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD that's a part of "the family fleet" makes it even more hellishly difficult (in my opinion) to get to all the lamps even though you'd think it would be easier.

Once you have the wheel well liner released enough to see where you're going and get your arm in there, it's really not that hard to deal with. But remember, if you're doing this with the car on the ground, you are going to want to have the wheels turned such that the front edge is at its nearest to the center of the car on the side you're intending to work on. You really can't do much of anything with any ease if the wheel is facing directly forward.

 

As noted above. Turn the wheel opposite so as to make room to work.I forget, one clip and screw I believe. The inner plastic wheel well will bend and flex to accommodate your arm. Bit of a reach but not that hard.

Best!