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2008-2013 Toyota Highlander Brake Light Replacment

This is a guide on replacing a brake light on...

iFixit Library 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander Moderate 10 - 20 minutes Guide 172440

Licensed iFixit integration

This attributed iFixit guide is displayed through Fixonic's recorded commercial API permission. iFixit remains the independent source and author of the procedure.

Guide overview

Before you begin

This is a guide on replacing a brake light on the 2008 Toyota Highlander. Brake lights are an essential part to road safety, and making sure they are in working condition is every drivers duty. Hopefully this guide breaks down the seemingly daunting task with an easy step-by-step replacement anyone can do!

Step 1

Repair step

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TOOL USED ON THIS STEP 1/4" Flathead Screwdriver Referenced by the iFixit guide

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Locate the plastic panel shown in the photo, near the hatch.
Insert a flat head screwdriver in the top indentation.
Pry open and pull out the plastic panel.

Step 2

Repair step

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Grasp the black plastic base of the cable and twist counter-clockwise to unlock the bulb.
Pull the connecting black cable from the entire compartment.
The brake light is at the end of this black cable.

Step 3

Repair step

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Hold the black socket bulb holder in one of your hands and pull gently on the light until it pops out.
CAUTION: Too much pressure can break the light bulb.
Put on latex gloves before handling a new bulb.
Grab the new replacement bulb and gently push into the socket.
REMINDER: Use a compatible bulb. For this model we used "LONGLIFE 7443 Sylvania bulbs"

Step 4

Repair step

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Test the replaced bulb by pressing the brakes on your car.
Align the black socket bulb holder with the hole/lock in the taillight compartment.
Twist clockwise until you feel it lock in place

Step 5

Repair step

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To place back the plastic panel, make sure the bottom clips are aligned.
Push plastic panel in until you hear a small "click."

Step 6

Repair step

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Test the brake light again to ensure working condition.