🔧 Impreza - Taillight Bulb Replacement

On your Impreza, the rear bulbs are serviced from inside the trunk by removing small access covers. You’ll twist the bulb socket out, swap the bulb, then test all rear light functions before closing everything up.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the light switch OFF and remove the key before starting.
• ⚠️ Let bulbs cool first; they can burn you.
• ⚠️ Don’t touch the new bulb glass with bare fingers; oil can shorten bulb life.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Trim removal tool
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• 10mm socket
• 1/4" ratchet
• Flashlight
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses
• Clean shop towel

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear taillight bulbs (left and right) - Qty: 2

Assumption: you’re replacing the main taillight/brake bulbs on both sides; match the bulb type by reading the number on your old bulb or using your owner’s manual.

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Open the trunk and remove anything that blocks access to the side trim.
• Put on nitrile gloves (thin gloves that keep skin oil off bulbs).
• Have a flashlight ready so you can see the bulb sockets clearly.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the taillight service covers

• Open the trunk.
• On the left trunk liner, locate the small access door/cover behind the taillight area.
• Use a trim removal tool to pop open the access cover (work gently to avoid breaking clips).
• Repeat on the right side for the other taillight.

Step 2: Remove the bulb socket

• Look for the bulb socket going into the back of the taillight housing.
• Grip the socket firmly and turn it counterclockwise about 1/4 turn.
• Pull the socket straight out.
• If tight, wiggle gently—don’t yank wires.

Step 3: Remove the old bulb

• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
• If it’s stuck, use a clean shop towel for grip and pull straight (don’t twist unless it’s a twist-lock style).
• Use your flashlight and read the bulb number printed on the base to ensure you have the correct replacement.

Step 4: Install the new bulb

• With nitrile gloves on, push the new bulb straight into the socket until fully seated.
• If you accidentally touch the glass, wipe it with a clean shop towel before installing.

Step 5: Reinstall the socket and close the access cover

• Align the socket tabs with the housing and insert the socket fully.
• Turn the socket clockwise about 1/4 turn until it locks.
• Snap the trunk access cover back into place by hand.
• Repeat Steps 2–5 on the other side to replace the second taillight bulb.

Step 6: If your bulb isn’t accessible (rare case)

• If you can’t reach the socket through the access door, the trunk liner may need to be pulled back further.
• Use a trim removal tool to remove a few liner clips, then fold the liner back for access.
• If a small fastener is present, remove with a Phillips #2 screwdriver or 10mm socket as needed.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the headlight switch ON and confirm both rear taillights illuminate.
• Press the brake pedal (or have someone help) and confirm both brake lights brighten.
• Turn on hazards and verify both rear turn signals flash normally (fast flashing usually means a bulb issue).
• Make sure both trunk access covers are fully clipped in so the liner doesn’t rattle.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $60-$160 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $6-$30 (parts only)

You Save: $54-$130 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.7 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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