🔧 IS - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

You’ll replace the rear turn signal bulb(s) from inside the trunk by removing a small trim access cover behind the tail lamp. A working bulb keeps your turn signals bright and legal, and prevents fast-blink “hyperflash” on the dash.

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

Assumption: Most IS rear turn signals use an amber 7440-type bulb.

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the lights off and let bulbs cool before touching.
• ⚠️ Keep the key away from the car so signals can’t be turned on accidentally.
• ⚠️ Don’t touch the glass of a halogen bulb with bare fingers; skin oils can shorten bulb life.
• ⚠️ Make sure the bulb socket seal seats fully to prevent moisture inside the lamp.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Trim removal tool
• 10mm socket
• 1/4" drive ratchet
• 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 (amber, 7440-type) - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and shift to Park.
• Turn the ignition off and remove the key fob from the cabin.
• Open the trunk and use a flashlight to find the rear of the tail lamp area.
• Tip: Replace bulbs in pairs for even brightness.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the tail lamp service opening

• Open the trunk and locate the trunk side trim behind the tail lamp.
• Use a trim removal tool to pop out the small access cover or loosen the trim fasteners (a trim tool is a plastic pry tool that removes clips without breaking them).
• If a small retaining nut or fastener is in the way, remove it with a 10mm socket and 1/4" drive ratchet.

Step 2: Find the rear turn signal bulb socket

• Use a flashlight to look at the back of the tail lamp housing.
• Identify the turn signal socket (usually a twist-lock socket; the wire connector plugs into it).

Step 3: Remove the bulb socket

• Grip the socket and rotate it counterclockwise about 1/4 turn to unlock.
• Pull the socket straight out of the tail lamp.
• Tip: Wiggle gently—don’t yank the wiring.

Step 4: Replace the bulb

• Put on nitrile gloves.
• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
• Push the new rear turn signal bulb (amber) straight into the socket until fully seated.

Step 5: Reinstall the socket and trim

• Insert the socket back into the tail lamp and rotate clockwise 1/4 turn to lock.
• Reinstall any fasteners you removed using the 10mm socket and 1/4" drive ratchet.
• Snap the access cover/trim back in place using the trim removal tool to align clips.

Step 6: Repeat on the other side

• Repeat Steps 1–5 for the other rear turn signal.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the ignition on and test both rear turn signals.
• Turn on the hazard lights and walk behind the car to confirm both sides blink evenly.
• Confirm the bulb is amber and the socket is fully locked (no loose or flickering bulb).
• Check that the trunk trim is secure and not pinching any wiring.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

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

DIY Cost: $10-$40 (parts only)

You Save: $50-$100 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.