How to Replace Rear Turn Signal Bulbs on a 2016 Buick Regal (Tail Light Guide)
Step-by-step trunk access instructions, required tools/parts, safety tips, and tail lamp torque specs for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
How to Replace Rear Turn Signal Bulbs on a 2016 Buick Regal (Tail Light Guide)
Step-by-step trunk access instructions, required tools/parts, safety tips, and tail lamp torque specs for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
š§ Regal - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement
Your Regalās rear turn signal bulbs sit inside the tail lamp assembly. Replacement is usually done from inside the trunk by removing a small access panel (and on some builds, removing the tail lamp nuts first).
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours
Assumption: your Regal uses replaceable (non-LED) rear turn signal bulbs.
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Turn ignition OFF and remove the key before touching any bulb sockets.
- ā ļø Let bulbs cool first; they can be hot.
- ā ļø Donāt touch the new bulb glass with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.
- ā ļø Support the trunk trim so clips donāt snap.
- Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Trim removal tool
- Phillips screwdriver
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- Small flashlight
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Rear turn signal bulb (amber) - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Open the trunk and remove any cargo so you can work comfortably.
- Have a trim removal tool ready (a plastic pry tool that helps pop clips without breaking them).
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Access the tail lamp from inside the trunk
- Use a small flashlight to locate the rear of the tail lamp assembly behind the trunk liner.
- If your trunk has a small service door/cover, open it by popping it loose with a trim removal tool.
- If the liner blocks access, remove push-clips with a trim removal tool and/or screws with a Phillips screwdriver, then fold the liner back.
Step 2: Remove the turn signal bulb socket
- Find the bulb socket labeled/positioned for the turn signal (typically the amber/turn position in the tail lamp).
- Grip the socket and rotate it counterclockwise about 1/4 turn by hand, then pull it straight out.
- If itās tight, wiggle gentlyādonāt yank the wires.
Step 3: Replace the bulb
- Wear nitrile gloves.
- Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket (itās a āpush-inā style bulb, not threaded).
- Push the new rear turn signal bulb (amber) straight into the socket until fully seated.
Step 4: Reinstall the socket and test
- Reinsert the socket into the tail lamp, making sure the tabs line up.
- Twist clockwise by hand until it locks.
- Turn the ignition to ON and test the rear turn signal and hazards to confirm proper flashing.
- Tip: Fast blinking usually means a bulb issue.
Step 5: If you canāt remove the socket (alternate method: remove the tail lamp)
- Use a 10mm socket with a 1/4" drive ratchet to remove the tail lamp retaining nuts inside the trunk.
- Carefully pull the tail lamp straight rearward from outside the car to release the locating pins.
- Remove the turn signal socket as in Step 2, replace the bulb as in Step 3.
- Reinstall the tail lamp and tighten the nuts evenly: Torque to 3 Nm (27 in-lbs).
Step 6: Reassemble trunk trim
- Reposition the trunk liner.
- Reinstall push-clips by pressing them in by hand (use the trim removal tool to align them if needed).
- Reinstall any screws using a Phillips screwdriver.
ā After Repair
- Test left and right rear turn signals, hazards, brake lights, and reverse lights.
- Make sure the bulb socket seal is seated to prevent moisture in the lamp.
- Confirm the trunk liner is secured so it wonāt rattle.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $75-$160 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $10-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $65-$125 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.
šÆ Ready to get started?
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