Need Advice on Removing Headliner in 2017 Tacoma

I am currently in the process of trying to figure out how to replace the gasket on my third brake light because of the stupid leak that happens to a lot of Tacomas. I don't really want to take it to the dealership since they want $130 just to do a diagnostics test on it before doing anything else, so I've just thought about replacing it myself.
Replacing the actual gasket isn't what I'm worried about...it's removing the headliner. I've never done anything like that before and was wondering if anyone had any advice for removing 3rd Gen. headliners. Do I have to remove the entire headliner or can I just remove the back part of it since all I have to do is get to the brake light? I have no idea how it all works and was just hoping that someone could help me out. Thanks in advance!!

 

May I suggest this: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/oem-roof-rack-leak.556476/page-3#post-24494763

Good luck and hope you're near a competent dealership.

 

Thanks!!

 

The 3rd brake light was updated. It's not just a gasket problem I think

 

Yank it like you wank it

 

Over torquing the bolts?

OP, try to score a @MESO third brake light. Then u can drill out the old one, throw it in the trash and install the Meso from the exterior.

 

Takes all of 20 minutes to remove from the outside.

 

Definitely looking into this...me and my dad both had the same idea but didn't know how long it would hold up in the weather. But it definitely would be a nice temporary fix until I can figure something out. Thanks!

 

I did mine this way over a year ago. Took 30 seconds and hasn't leaked a drop since.

 

Oh really?!?! How did you go about doing that?? What's the easiest way to even begin that from the outside lol?

 

Step-by-step instructions here:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ultimate-3rd-brake-cargo-light.488385/#post-15011371

 

Thanks for that tip. I just received the MESO 3rd brake light and this looks way easier than going from the inside.

 

I used the clear silicone from autozone. It's been on there for over 6 months. I've had ZERO issues. It's the $10 fix for the $300 problem. Looks a little ghetto, but it's held up for now.

 

I was wondering what you used to drill around the existing bolts that anchor the old light to the body? I am also curious about what you replaced the third light with that can be anchored from the outside?

 

Did you ever receive a response? Like to know as well.

 

I used a 1/2 drill bit to expose the studs once exposed...put the drill in reverse and chip away at it the bit won’t dig in reverse the plastic is pretty soft. Replaced with a Meso third brake light.

 

This is the way.

 

Evidently MeSo Customs no longer produces the replacements. Do you have any other retailers you could recommend that offers exterior install?

 

I personally don't know of one, but I know he sells them sporadically.

 

When did you purchase yours?