🔧 Forester - Taillight Bulb Replacement

You’ll remove each rear lamp assembly, swap the bulb(s), then reinstall the lamp and test the lights. This is a simple job, but you must pull the lamp straight back to avoid breaking the locating clips.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the lights OFF and remove the key before starting.
• ⚠️ Do not touch the glass part of the new bulb with bare fingers; skin oil can shorten bulb life.
• ⚠️ Pull the taillight assembly straight rearward; twisting can crack the lens or break clips.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 1/4" ratchet
• 6" socket extension
• Trim removal tool
• Torque wrench (in-lb or low-range Nm)
• Flashlight
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear stop/tail light bulb - Replace in pairs (left + right) - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and open the rear liftgate.
• Turn the light switch to OFF and make sure the brakes are not pressed.
• Tip: Match the bulb number from the old bulb.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the taillight retaining nuts

• Use a trim removal tool to pop open the small access cover(s) in the cargo area trim behind the taillight.
• Use a flashlight to locate the two taillight retaining nuts.

Step 2: Remove the taillight assembly

• Use a 10mm socket, 1/4" ratchet, and 6" extension to remove the two nuts.
• Support the lamp with one hand as the last nut comes off.
• Grip the taillight and pull it straight rearward (toward you) to release the locating clips.
• Tip: Don’t pry on the lens edge.

Step 3: Remove the bulb socket

• Identify the stop/tail bulb socket (the socket for the red lens section).
• Twist the socket counterclockwise by hand and pull it out of the housing.

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.
• If you accidentally touch the glass, wipe it with a clean dry cloth before installing.

Step 5: Reinstall the socket and lamp

• Insert the socket into the lamp and twist clockwise by hand until it locks.
• Align the lamp’s locating pins/clips with the body holes, then press the lamp straight forward until fully seated.
• Reinstall the two nuts using a 10mm socket, then use a torque wrench: Torque to 5 Nm (44 in-lbs).
• Snap the access cover(s) back in using your hands.

Step 6: Repeat for the other side

• Repeat Steps 1–5 on the opposite taillight so both sides match in brightness and color.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the parking lights ON and confirm both taillights illuminate evenly.
• Press the brake pedal (have a helper watch) and confirm both brake lights are bright.
• Verify the lamp sits flush with the body and there are no gaps that could let water in.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$160 (parts + labor)

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

You Save: $70-$120 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?

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