🔧 Journey - Taillight Bulb Replacement

On your Journey, the taillight bulbs sit inside each rear lamp assembly. You’ll open the liftgate, remove the lamp’s retaining screws, pull the lamp straight back, then swap the bulb(s) and reinstall everything.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the lights off and let bulbs cool before touching them.
• ⚠️ Keep the key/fob away so nobody turns lights on while your hands are inside.
• ⚠️ Don’t touch the glass of halogen bulbs (if equipped); oils can shorten bulb life.
• ⚠️ Support the lamp so it doesn’t scratch paint when it pops free.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Plastic trim removal tool
• Small flashlight
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses
• Clean microfiber towel

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear taillight bulb (dual-filament stop/tail) - Qty: 2

Assumption: Most SE models use an incandescent dual-filament stop/tail bulb. Match the bulb number printed on your old bulb (or on the base) to ensure the correct fit.

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and shift to PARK.
• Open the liftgate for access to the lamp screws.
• Lay a microfiber towel on the bumper corner below the lamp to protect the paint.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the left rear lamp screws

• Open the liftgate.
• Locate the two screws on the inboard edge of the left taillamp (the side facing the liftgate opening).
• Use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to remove both screws.

Step 2: Pull the lamp assembly straight back

• Hold the lamp with both hands.
• Pull the lamp straight rearward (toward you). It’s held by alignment pins/clips.
• If it’s stuck, use a plastic trim removal tool to gently help it start moving. Don’t pry on painted edges.

Step 3: Remove the bulb socket

• Turn the lamp slightly so you can see the wiring and bulb sockets.
• Find the socket for the stop/tail bulb (usually the dual-filament bulb socket).
• Twist the socket counterclockwise about 1/4 turn, then pull it out of the lamp.

Step 4: Replace the bulb

• Wear nitrile gloves.
• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
• Push the new bulb straight into the socket until fully seated.
• Use a flashlight to confirm the bulb sits straight and fully inserted.

Step 5: Reinstall the bulb socket

• Insert the socket back into the lamp housing.
• Twist clockwise about 1/4 turn until it locks.

Step 6: Reinstall the lamp assembly

• Line up the lamp’s alignment pins with the body holes.
• Press the lamp straight forward until it seats flush with the body.
• Reinstall the two screws using a Phillips #2 screwdriver.
• Torque to 2 Nm (18 in-lbs) (snug, not tight). Overtightening can crack plastic.

Step 7: Repeat on the right side

• Repeat Steps 1–6 for the right taillamp.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn on the parking lights and confirm both taillights illuminate evenly.
• Press the brake pedal (or have someone help) and confirm both brake lights work.
• Confirm the lamps sit flush and don’t wiggle.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $90-$180 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $10-$40 (parts only)

You Save: $50-$160 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1.0 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.