How to Remove the Car Reading Light Cover?
3 Answers
Method for removing the car reading light cover: Gently pry along the outermost edge using a flat-head screwdriver, avoiding the central part of the cover. Unscrew the small cross-headed screws to detach it. The reading light provides sufficient illumination for passengers when interior lighting is inadequate, facilitating reading without interfering with the driver's normal operation. Currently, there are two types of car reading lights: standard reading lights and LED reading lights. Methods to turn on the car reading light: 1. When the switch is in the DOOR position, the light turns on if the door is opened. 2. When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and the rear reading light switch is set to ON, the reading light illuminates.
I've removed car reading light covers quite a few times, depends on your model but generally similar. Most lamp covers are secured by clips directly snapped onto the headliner - use a small flathead screwdriver or dedicated plastic pry tool to gently insert into the edge gap, pry slowly without rushing or you may break the clips. Some luxury cars might have hidden screws requiring interior panel removal first, while economy models often have no screws making it much simpler. Work gently to avoid scratching the plastic liner which looks bad and affects sealing. Once pried open, you can easily access bulbs for cleaning or replacement. When reinstalling, align the clip positions and push firmly to prevent gaps that may allow dust/water ingress. Recommend searching online for your specific model's tutorial videos/images as reference to avoid costly DIY mistakes.
I used to think disassembling this thing wasn't difficult—the key is to be bold yet meticulous. The lamp cover usually has a small groove on the edge; just gently pry it open with a plastic pry tool—avoid using metal to prevent scratching the roof lining. Before operating, turn off the car's power to avoid short circuits or burning out the bulb. Take it slow, pry tentatively, and locate all the clips—once they loosen, it comes right off. After removal, you can wipe away internal dust or replace the bulb to extend its lifespan. Designs vary by brand—Japanese cars tend to have softer clips, while German models might be tighter—so it's best to consult the manual or forum experiences. If unsure, test a small area first rather than prying the whole thing off, as broken clips may require replacing the entire assembly, which is costly and troublesome. Remember to wear gloves to prevent slipping and injuring yourself, and to protect the lamp cover's surface.
