🔧 Rear Combination Lamp - Bulb/Assembly Replacement

On your Camry, the rear tail/stop lights are typically LED-integrated, so there may not be a replaceable “bulb” inside the lamp for the tail function. If your light is out, the fix is usually to replace the rear combination lamp assembly, not a loose bulb. This guide covers the safe removal and replacement path for the rear lamp on both sides.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the ignition off and keep the key/fob away from the car.
• Let the lamps cool before touching them.
• Do not pry hard on the lamp lens; the tabs can break.
• If your Camry has LED tail lamps, the lamp assembly may need replacement instead of a bulb.
• Battery disconnect is not required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• Ratchet
• Short extension
• Trim panel tool
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear combination lamp assembly - Left - Qty: 1
• Rear combination lamp assembly - Right - Qty: 1
• Bulb socket seals or gasket - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Open the trunk and clear the cargo area near each lamp.
• If the warning is only on one side, replace both sides if the other lamp is dim or aging.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the trunk and access the lamp fasteners

• Open the trunk and move any cargo away from the left and right rear lamp areas.
• Use a trim panel tool to gently move any side trim out of the way if needed.

Step 2: Remove the rear lamp retaining nuts

• Use a 10mm socket, ratchet, and short extension to remove the rear lamp nuts from inside the trunk.
• Keep the nuts in a safe place.
• Work slowly to avoid cracking the studs.

Step 3: Release the lamp assembly

• Gently pull the lamp straight rearward to release the alignment pins.
• If it feels stuck, wiggle it lightly by hand. Do not use a screwdriver on the lens.

Step 4: Disconnect the connector

• Press the connector lock and unplug the lamp harness by hand.
• If your lamp uses a removable socket for a service bulb, twist the socket counterclockwise to remove it.

Step 5: Install the replacement lamp

• Reconnect the harness or bulb socket to the new lamp.
• Align the lamp tabs and push it into place by hand.
• Install the retaining nuts with the 10mm socket and ratchet.
• Torque to 5 Nm (44 in-lbs).

Step 6: Repeat on the other side

• Do the same steps for the opposite lamp.
• Replace both sides as a pair if the light output is uneven.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn on the parking lights and check both rear lamps.
• Press the brake pedal and confirm both brake lights work.
• Check the turn signals and hazard lights.
• Make sure the lamp sits flush with the body panel.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $220-$600 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $120-$420 (parts only)

You Save: $100-$180 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hour.

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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.