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1997 Toyota Camry Stop and Tail Light Bulbs Replacement

If your stop and tail lights are not lighting...

iFixit Library 1997-2001 Toyota Camry Easy 20 - 25 minutes Guide 141309
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Guide overview

Before you begin

If your stop and tail lights are not lighting up when you press your brakes on your 1997 Toyota Camry, the bulbs most likely have died and need to be replaced. Working stop and tail lights are essential while driving as they signal to other drivers that you are slowing down or stopped. If your replace bulb indicator is on in your Toyota, this is a good indication that your bulbs need to be replaced. Before removing the light bulbs in Step 2, ensure that no wires attached to the bulb assembly are damaged or frayed. This could indicate an electrical issue. This needs to be repaired prior to replacing the light bulb. Make sure the ignition switch and light switch are off before beginning.

Step 1

Repair step

  • Open the trunk.
  • Loosen three 15 mm screws using a Phillips #1 screwdriver.
  • Pull the cover clips at the base to remove.
  • Potential for device damage: Do not pull the cover clips prior to unscrewing as the cover clips can break.
  • Remove the cover by folding the cover backwards to expose the bulb assembly.
Step 2

Repair step

  • Grab the inner light bulb assembly using your thumb and forefinger.
  • Rotate the bulb assembly a quarter turn counterclockwise.
  • Pull it straight outwards until the bulb is displayed.
Step 3

Repair step

  • While holding the assembly, grab the base of the light bulb with your thumb and forefinger.
  • Pull the bulb away from the assembly until it detaches. Discard the old bulb.
Step 4

Repair step

  • Grab the new inner tail light bulb 3157 and push it into the bulb assembly.
  • Insert the bulb assembly straight into the socket. Rotate it a quarter turn clockwise to secure it.
Step 5

Repair step

  • Repeat this process with the outer light bulb assembly using bulb 904.
Step 6

Repair step

  • Unfold the cover and place it back over the bulb sockets. Push the three cover clips into their sockets .
  • Screw the three 15 mm screws in with Phillips #1 screwdriver to secure the cover.