🔧 Accord - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

You’ll remove the rear tail light assembly from inside the trunk, twist out the turn-signal socket, and swap in a new bulb. This is straightforward, but you’ll want to be gentle so you don’t crack the tail light or break the trunk liner clips.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key before starting.
• ⚠️ Let bulbs cool before touching; they can get hot.
• ⚠️ Wear gloves and avoid touching the glass part of the new bulb.
• ⚠️ Support the tail light as you pull it out so it doesn’t drop or scratch paint.
• 🔋 Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 8mm socket
• 1/4" ratchet
• 6" extension (1/4")
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Plastic trim removal tool
• Flashlight
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear turn signal bulb (7440, amber) - Qty: 1
• Rear turn signal bulb (7440, amber) - Qty: 1 (optional, replace in pairs)

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📋 Before You Begin

• 🅿️ Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• 📦 Open the trunk and remove any cargo so you can work comfortably.
• 🧩 You’ll be moving trunk liner “trim clips” (small plastic fasteners that hold the liner in place).

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the rear of the tail light

• Open the trunk.
• Use a flashlight to locate the trunk liner behind the tail light area.
• Remove any liner clips/screws as needed using a plastic trim removal tool and/or Phillips #2 screwdriver.
• Tip: Pry clips gently to avoid breaking them.

Step 2: Remove the tail light retaining nuts

• Find the tail light mounting nuts on the inside of the trunk.
• Use an 8mm socket, 1/4" ratchet, and 6" extension (1/4") to remove the nuts.
• Set the nuts somewhere safe so they don’t fall into the trunk panel area.

Step 3: Pull the tail light assembly outward

• From outside the car, hold the tail light with both hands and pull it straight back.
• If it feels stuck, wiggle gently—don’t pry on the lens with a screwdriver.
• Tip: Pull straight back to release alignment pins.

Step 4: Remove the rear turn signal bulb socket

• Identify the turn signal socket on the back of the tail light assembly (it will twist-lock into the housing).
• Turn the socket counterclockwise about 1/4 turn by hand, then pull it out.
• If it’s tight, use nitrile gloves for better grip.

Step 5: Replace the bulb

• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket (it’s a wedge-base bulb).
• Install the new rear turn signal bulb (7440, amber) by pushing it straight in until fully seated.
• Avoid touching the glass with bare fingers; use nitrile gloves.

Step 6: Reinstall the socket and tail light

• Reinsert the socket and twist clockwise to lock it.
• Line up the tail light’s locating pins and press the assembly back into place.
• Reinstall the mounting nuts using the 8mm socket, 1/4" ratchet, and 6" extension (1/4").
• Torque to 5 Nm (44 in-lbs)
• Reinstall the trunk liner and clips using the plastic trim removal tool and/or Phillips #2 screwdriver.

Step 7: Repeat for the other side (recommended)

• If the opposite side bulb is old, replace it too so brightness and color match.

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✅ After Repair

• 🔁 Turn the ignition ON and test left/right turn signals and hazards.
• 💡 If the turn signal flashes fast, a bulb may be the wrong type or not seated fully—recheck the socket lock and bulb fit.
• 👀 Verify the tail light sits flush and doesn’t wobble.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$150 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $6-$20 (parts only)

You Save: $60-$130 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.