🔧 Outback - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

Your Outback’s rear turn signal bulbs are inside the tail lamp assemblies. The job is mostly trim access, removing the tail lamp, then swapping the correct bulb without damaging the socket or lens.

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

---

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Work on a level surface and set the parking brake.
• ⚠️ Turn the key off and remove it before unplugging lamp connectors.
• ⚠️ Let bulbs cool before touching; they can be hot.
• ⚠️ Avoid touching the glass of a new bulb with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.

---

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 1/4" ratchet
• 6" extension for 1/4" ratchet
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Trim clip removal tool
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

---

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear turn signal bulb (amber, 7440A type) - Qty: 2 Replace in pairs
• Replacement trim clips - Qty: 2

---

📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and open the rear hatch.
• Turn the headlight switch to OFF and remove the key.
• Lay a towel near the bumper corner to set the tail lamp on (prevents scratches).

---

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the tail lamp fasteners

• Open the hatch and locate the inner edge of the tail lamp (near the hatch opening).
• If a small interior trim cover blocks access, remove it using a trim clip removal tool or small flathead screwdriver. Trim clip tool = plastic pry tool for panels.
• Use a flashlight to find the lamp retaining fasteners.

Step 2: Remove the tail lamp assembly

• Remove the retaining nuts/bolts using a 10mm socket, 1/4" ratchet, and 6" extension.
• Gently pull the tail lamp straight rearward to release the locator pins.
• If it feels stuck, wiggle evenly while pulling; do not pry on the painted body.

Step 3: Remove the rear turn signal bulb socket

• Locate the turn signal socket on the back of the tail lamp (typically the amber/turn position).
• Twist the socket counterclockwise about 1/4 turn by hand and pull it out.
• Put on nitrile gloves before handling the new bulb.

Step 4: Replace the bulb

• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket by hand.
• Push the new rear turn signal bulb (amber, 7440A type) straight into the socket until fully seated.
• Reinstall the socket into the housing and twist clockwise to lock.

Step 5: Test the turn signal before reassembly

• With the tail lamp still loose, turn the key to ON and switch on the left/right turn signal.
• Verify the bulb flashes normally (not very fast). Fast flash usually means a bulb issue.
• Turn key OFF again before reinstalling the lamp.

Step 6: Reinstall the tail lamp

• Align the locator pins and press the tail lamp straight into place.
• Reinstall the retaining nuts/bolts using a 10mm socket and 1/4" ratchet.
• Tighten snugly—do not over-tighten (the lamp housing can crack). If you have a small torque wrench: Torque to 5 N·m (44 in-lbs).
• Reinstall any trim cover using the trim clip removal tool (press clips back in).

---

✅ After Repair

• Test left and right rear turn signals, brake lights, and tail lights.
• Verify the lamp sits flush and doesn’t move when lightly pushed.
• If you get rapid blinking, recheck bulb seating and socket lock.

---

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $60-$140 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $10-$30 (parts only)

You Save: $50-$110 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.

---

🎯 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.