🔧 Taillight Bulbs - Bulb Replacement

Replacing the rear taillight bulbs on your Accord is a quick job that can be done from inside the trunk. The key is to access the bulb sockets carefully, swap the bulbs without touching the glass, and confirm both sides work before closing everything up.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the lights off and let the bulbs cool before touching them.
• Do not touch the glass part of new halogen bulbs with bare fingers.
• Use care when removing trunk trim pieces so you do not 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:

• Trim panel removal tool
• Phillips screwdriver
• 10mm socket
• Ratchet
• Extension
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear taillight bulb set - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Open the trunk fully for access.
• Make sure the exterior lights are switched off.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open trunk access area

• Open the trunk and locate the rear lamp access covers behind the taillight housings.
• Use a trim panel removal tool to gently pull back the trunk liner if needed.
• Work slowly to avoid breaking clips.

Step 2: Remove the bulb access cover

• Use your hands or a Phillips screwdriver if your cover uses a fastener.
• Set the cover aside in a safe place.

Step 3: Remove the bulb socket

• Find the taillight bulb socket at the back of the lamp assembly.
• Twist the socket counterclockwise by hand, or use a 10mm socket and extension only if a retaining fastener is present.
• Pull the socket straight out once it unlocks.

Step 4: Replace the bulb

• Remove the old bulb from the socket.
• Install the new bulb firmly into the socket.
• Do not twist the glass bulb hard.

Step 5: Reinstall the socket

• Align the socket tabs with the housing.
• Push it in and twist clockwise until it locks.

Step 6: Test the lights

• Turn on the parking lights and brake lights.
• Check both rear taillights to make sure they work.
• If one side does not light up, remove the socket and check bulb seating again.

Step 7: Reassemble the trunk trim

• Reinstall the access cover and any trim you removed.
• Press all clips back into place by hand.

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✅ After Repair

• Verify tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals all work normally.
• Check the lens from outside the vehicle at night or in a dark garage.
• Keep the spare bulb box in the trunk in case another bulb fails later.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

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

DIY Cost: $15-$40 (parts only)

You Save: $65-$140 by doing it yourself!

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

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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.