🔧 Traverse - Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

Replacing the rear turn signal bulbs on your Traverse requires removing each outer rear tail lamp assembly, then replacing the turn signal bulb from the back of the lamp. This is a simple DIY job, but take your time so you do not crack the lamp housing or break the locating pins.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 20-40 minutes

---

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the ignition and exterior lamps off before removing the bulbs.
• ⚠️ Let the rear lamps cool if the lights were recently used.
• ⚠️ Wear gloves and avoid touching the glass part of the new bulb with bare fingers.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

---

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• T15 Torx screwdriver
• Plastic trim removal tool
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

---

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear turn signal bulbs - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2

---

📋 Before You Begin

• 🚗 Park your Traverse on level ground.
• 🅿️ Shift to Park and set the parking brake.
• 💡 Turn the headlamp switch and hazard lights off.
• 📦 Open the liftgate fully to access the rear lamp mounting screws.
• 🔎 A Torx screwdriver has a star-shaped tip used on many GM lamp screws.
• 🔎 A trim removal tool is a plastic pry tool that helps release clips without scratching paint.

---

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the first rear lamp

• Use your hand to open the liftgate fully.
• Start on either rear corner of your Traverse.
• Look at the inner edge of the tail lamp, next to the liftgate opening, to find the mounting screws.

Step 2: Remove the tail lamp screws

• Use the T15 Torx screwdriver to remove the two tail lamp retaining screws.
• Set the screws aside in a safe spot.
• Tip: A small cup prevents lost screws.

Step 3: Remove the rear lamp assembly

• Use both hands to pull the lamp assembly straight rearward from the body.
• If it does not release easily, use the plastic trim removal tool gently at the outer edge to help release the locating pins.
• Do not pull the lamp sideways. Pulling straight back helps prevent broken plastic pins.
• Tip: Use steady pressure, not a jerk.

Step 4: Remove the rear turn signal bulb socket

• Use your hand to identify the rear turn signal bulb socket on the back of the lamp assembly.
• Turn the socket counterclockwise about one-quarter turn.
• Pull the socket straight out of the lamp housing.

Step 5: Replace the rear turn signal bulb

• Put on nitrile gloves.
• Use your fingers to pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
• Push the new rear turn signal bulb straight into the socket until it is fully seated.
• If the bulb does not slide in smoothly, rotate it slightly and try again. Do not force it.

Step 6: Reinstall the bulb socket

• Use your hand to insert the socket back into the rear lamp housing.
• Turn the socket clockwise about one-quarter turn until it locks.
• Make sure the socket sits flat against the lamp housing to help keep water out.

Step 7: Reinstall the rear lamp assembly

• Use both hands to line up the lamp locating pins with the holes in the body.
• Push the lamp straight forward until it sits flush with the body panel.
• Use the T15 Torx screwdriver to reinstall the two retaining screws.
• Tighten the screws gently. The lamp housing is plastic and can crack if overtightened.
• Torque to 2.5 Nm (22 in-lbs)

Step 8: Repeat on the other side

• Use the T15 Torx screwdriver to remove the two screws from the opposite rear lamp.
• Use the plastic trim removal tool only if the lamp needs help releasing.
• Remove the turn signal socket by turning it counterclockwise by hand.
• Replace the bulb while wearing nitrile gloves.
• Reinstall the socket, lamp assembly, and screws.
• Torque to 2.5 Nm (22 in-lbs)

Step 9: Test the rear turn signals

• Use your hand to turn the ignition to accessory mode or start the vehicle.
• Use the turn signal stalk to test the left rear turn signal.
• Use the turn signal stalk to test the right rear turn signal.
• Turn on the hazard lights and walk behind your Traverse to confirm both rear turn signal bulbs flash normally.

---

✅ After Repair

• ✅ Confirm both rear turn signals flash at a normal speed.
• ✅ If one side flashes fast, the bulb may not be seated correctly or the wrong bulb may be installed.
• ✅ Check that both lamp assemblies sit flush and do not move.
• ✅ Recheck the area after the first rain or car wash for signs of moisture inside the lamp.

---

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$160 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $10-$35 (parts only)

You Save: $70-$125 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.

---

🎯 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.