3rd Taillight Recall broken stud

Lemme know how it goes. I still need to install mine.

 

I’m just getting around to checking these links out. So all you have to do is take the screws out of the hooks in the back and then fold it down to replace the light?

 

I haven't done it yet, but I think that's pretty much it. The idea is you have just enough room to get a hand in there with a ratchet. Leave the back window open while you're replacing the part and it might be good to have a helper to hand you things or hold the light into position while you tighten it down. Follow the YouTube video unless you want to pull the entire headliner down, which I wouldn't recommend.

You'd think Toyota could have installed the 2 screws on the outside of the lamp like the older Tacoma's.

Edit: Don't over tighten the new lamp, it's plastic!

 

Really bad design on Toyotas part, but I understand because they were probably going for a cleaner look.

 

I got around to installing it and it wasn’t difficult or easy. The hardest part was putting the screws back on. I ended up dropping one and could not get it out. Now I only have ones side screwed. I’ll get around to the other side when I find a new nut or a better magnetic tool. Also be careful in how far you pull your headliner down because mine started tearing in the corners. Luckily you can tuck them behind the the plastics that’s cover the seatbelt.

 

Good to know thanks! I still haven't swapped mine, but I know dropping the screws is common. I noticed tacoma lifestyle offers a neat aftermarket option. I might do that instead if/when it comes back in stock. I've also thought about taking the lazy approach and just putting the silicone/gasket over the old one that's on there now.

https://www.tacomalifestyle.com/products/tacoma-3rd-brake-light?_pos=13&_sid=88ad973cb&_ss=r