How to Replace a Brake Light on a '98 Toyota Camry

The 1998 Toyota Camry taillight assembly is a composite housing with replaceable bulbs that install in the backside of the housing. The brake light bulb, a duel-filament 3157 bulb, also serves as the taillight bulb. The 3157 is readily available from any auto parts store, some service stations, the dealership or even from some major department stores. Changing the bulb at home will save you time and money, as well as increase the safety of your Camry.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Flat screwdriver
• Socket set
• Ratchet

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Open the trunk of your Toyota Camry and locate the access panel cover on the inside to the left and right of the trunk opening. Carefully remove the cover, pry it off with a flat screwdriver and set it aside for now.

   • 2

     Locate the three retaining nuts inside the access hole. Remove the nuts with a socket and ratchet, being careful not to drop them into the bottom of the compartment.

   • 3

     Remove the taillight assembly by grasping it on both side and pulling it straight out of the body far enough to access the bulb socket on the backside. Grasp the bulb socket and turn it counterclockwise then pull it straight out of the rear of the taillight housing.

   • 4

     Pull the 3157 bulb from the socket and discard it. Install a new 3157 bulb, pushing it straight into the socket until it seats. Insert the bulb socket into the back of the taillight housing and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

   • 5

     Align the three mounting studs on the rear of the taillight assembly with the holes in the body of the car. Install the assembly on the body then screw the retaining nuts onto the studs from inside the access hole on the trunk side.

   • 6

     Tighten the retaining nuts with a socket and ratchet then snap the access cover in place. Close the truck and test the light by having someone step on the brakes so you can see if it lights up.