🔧 Traverse - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

Your Traverse uses a replaceable bulb inside the rear tail lamp assembly for the turn signal. You’ll access the bulb from inside the rear cargo area, swap the bulb, then test the turn signals to confirm everything works.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key before starting.
• ⚠️ If the lights were recently on, let the tail lamp cool for 5-10 minutes.
• ⚠️ Don’t touch the new bulb glass with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.
• ⚠️ Support the tail lamp with one hand so it doesn’t drop or scratch paint.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 1/4" drive ratchet
• 6" socket extension (1/4" drive)
• Plastic trim removal tool
• Small flathead screwdriver
• 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, 7440A-type) - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Open the liftgate for access to the rear cargo side panels.
• Plastic trim removal tool = a nylon pry tool that helps pop trim panels without scratching.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the access panel inside the cargo area

• Open the liftgate by hand.
• On the same side as the bulb you’re replacing, use a flashlight to locate the small access cover behind the tail lamp area.
• Use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry the cover open.

Step 2: Remove the tail lamp retaining nuts

• Use a 10mm socket, 6" extension, and 1/4" drive ratchet to remove the tail lamp retaining nuts you can see through the access opening.
• Set the nuts aside where they won’t get lost.

Step 3: Remove the tail lamp assembly

• With one hand supporting the lamp, pull the tail lamp straight rearward.
• If it feels stuck, use a plastic trim removal tool to gently help it release (do not pry against painted edges).
• Tip: Pull straight back, not outward.

Step 4: Remove the turn signal bulb socket

• Locate the turn signal bulb socket on the back of the tail lamp.
• Twist the socket counterclockwise by hand to unlock it, then pull it out.

Step 5: Replace the bulb

• Put on nitrile gloves.
• 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.

Step 6: Reinstall the socket and tail lamp

• Reinstall the socket into the tail lamp and twist clockwise by hand until it locks.
• Position the tail lamp and align the locating pins, then push it straight into place by hand.
• Install the retaining nuts using the 10mm socket, extension, and ratchet.
• Torque to 2.5 Nm (22 in-lbs)
• Reinstall the access cover by pressing it in by hand until it snaps closed.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the ignition ON and test the rear turn signal on that side.
• Test the hazards (both rear signals should flash evenly).
• If it doesn’t work, remove the access cover and re-check the socket is fully locked in place.
• Tip: Replace bulbs in pairs for matching brightness.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$180 (parts + labor)

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

You Save: $70-$150 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.