🔧 Taillight Bulbs - Replacement

This job replaces the rear tail lamp bulbs on both sides. On your Equinox, the bulbs are accessed from inside the rear body opening behind each lamp housing, so you do not have to remove the bumper or liftgate trim extensively.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
• Turn the lights off and let the bulbs cool before touching them.
• Do not touch the glass on halogen bulbs with bare fingers; skin oil can shorten bulb life.
• If the lamp area is tight, use a plastic trim tool instead of a metal screwdriver to avoid cracking the housing.
• Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses
• Plastic trim removal tool

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Left taillight bulb - Qty: 1
• Right taillight bulb - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Make sure the headlight switch is in the OFF position.
• Open the liftgate for access to the rear lamp area.
• Keep the key fob away from the vehicle.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the rear access area

• Open the liftgate so you can reach the back side of the taillight housing.
• If there is a small access cover, use the plastic trim removal tool to gently pry it off.

Step 2: Remove the bulb socket

• Reach behind the lamp housing and locate the bulb socket.
• Twist the socket counterclockwise by hand and pull it straight out.
• Do not force the socket.

Step 3: Replace the bulb

• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
• Install the new bulb by pushing it firmly into the socket until fully seated.
• Use nitrile gloves when handling the new bulb.

Step 4: Reinstall the socket

• Align the socket with the opening and insert it into the housing.
• Twist it clockwise by hand until it locks in place.

Step 5: Repeat on the other side

• Use the same process to replace the bulb on the opposite side.
• Make sure both sides match and are fully seated.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the parking lights on and confirm both taillights work.
• Press the brake pedal and confirm the brake lights illuminate.
• Check turn signals and hazard lights if the bulb serves multiple functions.
• If one side does not light, remove the socket again and confirm the bulb is fully seated.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$180 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $20-$60 (parts only)

You Save: $60-$120 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 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.