How to replace the rear Turn signal bulbs (Trim: Limited | Engine: V8 5.7L) on a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque specs for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
How to replace the rear Turn signal bulbs (Trim: Limited | Engine: V8 5.7L) on a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque specs for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
🔧 Rear Turn Signal Bulb Replacement
Replacing the rear turn signal bulb on your Grand Cherokee is a simple access-and-swap job from inside the rear cargo area. The tail lamp housing comes out first, then the bulb holder twists out so you can install the new bulb.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Turn the lights off and remove the key fob from the vehicle before starting.
- Let the rear lamps cool down if they were just on; bulbs and housings can get hot.
- Use a trim tool carefully so you do not crack the lamp lens or scratch the paint.
- If the bulb does not use a replaceable socket and the lamp is LED, the whole lamp assembly must be serviced instead.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Trim removal tool
- 7mm socket
- Ratchet
- Short extension
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Rear turn signal bulb - Qty: 1
- Rear turn signal bulb socket seal - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Open the liftgate for access to the rear lamp fasteners.
- Assumption: your rear turn signal uses a replaceable bulb, not an LED module.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the cargo area and access the lamp fasteners
- Open the liftgate and locate the rear lamp access area behind the tail lamp.
- Use the trim removal tool to carefully remove the interior access cover, if equipped.
Step 2: Remove the rear tail lamp assembly
- Use a 7mm socket, ratchet, and short extension to remove the tail lamp retaining screws.
- Pull the lamp straight rearward to release the locating pins.
- Do not twist the lens sideways.
Step 3: Remove the bulb socket
- Rotate the rear turn signal bulb socket counterclockwise and pull it out of the lamp housing.
- If the socket feels stuck, wiggle it gently while pulling straight out.
Step 4: Replace the bulb
- Remove the old bulb from the socket and install the new bulb of the same type.
- Make sure the bulb seats fully and evenly.
- Do not touch glass bulbs with bare fingers.
Step 5: Reinstall the socket and lamp
- Insert the bulb socket back into the lamp housing and twist clockwise to lock it in place.
- Align the lamp locating pins and push the lamp straight into position.
- Use the 7mm socket and ratchet to reinstall the retaining screws.
- Torque to 3.4 Nm (30 ft-lbs).
Step 6: Reinstall the access cover
- Use the trim removal tool to reinstall any interior cover removed earlier.
- Make sure all clips are fully seated.
✅ After Repair
- Turn on the ignition and test the rear turn signal on both sides.
- Check the brake light and tail light function while you are there.
- Confirm the new bulb flashes at the same brightness as the other side.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $90-$180 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $10-$30 (parts only)
You Save: $80-$150 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hour.
🎯 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.


















