How to Replace the Brake Light Bulb on a Highlander?
2 Answers
First, open the trunk and lift the mat above the spare tire. Remove the eleven self-tapping rivets, then detach the plastic panel under the trunk lid and the felt panels on both sides. Simply release the clips to pull out the lamp socket for brake light bulb replacement. Finally, reassemble by following the original steps in reverse. Below is an introduction to brake lights: 1. Brake lights illuminate when the vehicle brakes, typically in red to alert following vehicles. Additionally, they effectively prevent rear-end collisions and reduce traffic accidents. 2. Brake lights feature high brightness and visibility, primarily serving to notify trailing vehicles of deceleration or stopping. 3. Incorrect usage or malfunctioning brake lights can easily lead to rear-end collisions.
I've been driving a Highlander for years and change the brake lights myself when they go out—it's not that hard. First, open the trunk and locate the brake light position, usually behind the tail light cover where there's a plastic panel. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it open, but don’t use too much force to avoid scratching the paint. Then you’ll see the bulb socket; twist it to remove the old bulb, being careful not to touch the glass part directly, as oil from your hands can shorten its lifespan. The new bulb is a P21W model, which costs just a few bucks at an auto parts store. Align it with the slot, push it in firmly, and twist it back into place. After reattaching the panel, don’t forget to test it—have a friend press the brake or check the reflection in a mirror. A non-functioning brake light can easily attract police fines and increase rear-end collision risks, so I check all my lights monthly, including turn signals and taillights for any dim spots. Developing this habit saves trouble and ensures safety.
