🔧 Outback - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

Your Outback’s rear turn signal bulbs sit inside the tail lamp housing. You can usually replace them from inside the cargo area by removing a small access cover, then twisting the bulb socket out.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.3-0.6 hours

Assumption: Access is through the cargo-side service cover.

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
• ⚠️ Let bulbs cool before touching; they can be hot.
• ⚠️ Wear gloves to keep skin oil off the new bulb (oil can shorten bulb life).
• ⚠️ Do not force trim panels; they can crack in cold weather.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Plastic trim removal tool set
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses
• Flashlight

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear turn signal bulb (7440A amber) - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and shift to Park.
• Turn the light switch to OFF and make sure the turn signals are not on.
• Open the rear hatch for access and lighting.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the tail lamp service opening

• Go to the inside of the cargo area on the side you’re replacing.
• Use a flashlight to find the small service cover behind the interior trim near the tail lamp.
• Use a plastic trim removal tool set to pop the cover open.
• If there’s a stubborn tab, gently help it with a small flathead screwdriver.

Step 2: Remove the rear turn signal bulb socket

• Look through the opening and find the turn signal bulb socket (a round twist-lock socket).
• Grip the socket and rotate it counterclockwise about 1/4 turn, then pull it straight out.
• Twist the socket, not the wires.

Step 3: Replace the bulb

• Put on nitrile gloves.
• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket (it’s a push-in type).
• Push the new rear turn signal bulb (7440A amber) straight into the socket until fully seated.

Step 4: Reinstall the socket and test

• Insert the socket back into the tail lamp and rotate clockwise to lock.
• Turn the ignition ON and test the rear turn signal and hazards.
• If it doesn’t work, turn ignition OFF, remove the socket again, and make sure the bulb is fully seated.

Step 5: Refit the access cover

• Snap the service cover back into place by hand.
• Repeat Steps 1–5 on the other side (recommended to replace in pairs for matching brightness).

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✅ After Repair

• Confirm left and right turn signals blink at a normal speed (fast blinking usually means a bulb isn’t working).
• Verify hazards work and both rear turn signals illuminate evenly.
• Check that the access covers are fully clipped in and not rattling.

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💰 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 0.3-0.6 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.