How to Replace Rear Turn Signal Bulbs on a 2018 Chevrolet Trax (Step-by-Step)
Access the rear lamp housing from the cargo area, with tools list, bulb tips, and testing steps
How to Replace Rear Turn Signal Bulbs on a 2018 Chevrolet Trax (Step-by-Step)
Access the rear lamp housing from the cargo area, with tools list, bulb tips, and testing steps


š§ Trax - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement
Your Traxās rear turn signal bulb sits inside the rear lamp housing. The job is usually done from inside the cargo area by removing a small access cover, then twisting the bulb socket out.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.3-0.7 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Turn the lights OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle before starting.
- ā ļø Let the bulbs cool first; they can get hot.
- ā ļø Donāt touch the glass of a new bulb with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.
- ā ļø Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Flashlight
- Plastic trim removal tool
- Small flat-blade screwdriver
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Rear turn signal bulb (amber, correct fit for your Trax) - Qty: 1
- Rear turn signal bulb (amber, correct fit for your Trax) - Qty: 1 Replace in pairs for even brightness
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Open the rear liftgate and clear the cargo area so you can reach the side trim.
- Have your flashlight ready so you can see the bulb socket clearly.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Identify the correct rear lamp access point
- Open the liftgate and go to the inside cargo area next to the rear lamp youāre working on.
- Use a flashlight to look for a small removable access cover in the cargo-side trim behind the rear lamp.
- The access cover is usually near the lampās back side.
Step 2: Remove the access cover (if equipped)
- Use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry the access cover open.
- If thereās a tight notch, use a small flat-blade screwdriver carefully to start the edge, then switch back to the plastic trim removal tool to avoid marring trim.
Step 3: Remove the turn signal bulb socket
- Reach through the opening and locate the bulb socket for the turn signal.
- Twist the socket counterclockwise by hand until it unlocks, then pull it straight out.
- If itās stuck, wiggleādonāt force it.
Step 4: Replace the bulb
- Put on nitrile gloves.
- Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
- Push the new bulb straight into the socket until fully seated.
Step 5: Reinstall the socket and close everything up
- Insert the socket back into the lamp housing, making sure the tabs line up.
- Twist clockwise by hand until it locks.
- Reinstall the access cover by pressing it back into place by hand.
Step 6: If your Trax does NOT have an access cover
- Use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pull back the cargo-side trim enough to reach the back of the lamp.
- If you still cannot reach the socket, tell me whether your turn signal is in the outer body lamp or the liftgate lamp, and Iāll give you the exact lamp-removal steps for that side.
ā After Repair
- Turn the ignition to ON and test the rear turn signal on that side.
- Test the hazards to confirm the bulb flashes normally.
- If it flashes fast, re-check that the bulb is fully seated and the socket is locked.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $80-$150 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $10-$25 (parts only)
You Save: $55-$140 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.7 hours.
šÆ 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.

















