Fits: 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma (2nd generation), all cab and bed configurations. Access Cab and Double Cab with any bed length share the same tail light mounting.
Looking for the 2016-2023 third-generation truck? That one wires up differently, through the factory bulb sockets rather than a single plug. Use the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma guide instead.
Two screws and one plug per side, no trim to remove. Allow about twenty minutes.
Before You Start
- Park on level ground, switch the truck off, and disconnect the negative battery terminal while handling wiring.
- Set the lamps face-down on a soft towel so the lens does not get scratched.
- Do not put dielectric or weather-sealing grease on connectors or sockets.
- If a lamp does not move, stop and look for another fastener rather than forcing it.
Required Tools
- 10mm socket and ratchet
- Plastic trim removal tool
- Clean microfiber towel
- A helper for brake light and reverse light testing
Part 1: Remove the Factory Tail Lights
Step 1: Remove the Mounting Screws
Open the tailgate. Along the inner edge of each tail light there are an upper and a lower mounting screw. Remove both with the 10mm socket.
Step 2: Remove the Lamp
Hold the tail light firmly and pull it straight toward the rear of the truck. If it will not release, work a plastic trim tool between the lamp and the body to ease it out rather than levering against the paint.
Step 3: Disconnect the Harness
Press the locking tab on the tail light connector and unplug the factory harness. Have a look inside the connector for dirt or corrosion before the new lamp goes on.
Part 2: Install the New Tail Lights
Step 4: Connect the New Lamp
Line the connector on the new LED tail light up with the factory plug and push them together until the locking tab is fully engaged.
Step 5: Fit and Secure
Line the locating pins on the side of the new lamp up with the openings in the body and push the assembly straight in. Start both screws before tightening either, then tighten the upper and lower screws evenly.
Step 6: Check the Fit and Test
Close the tailgate and check that the gaps between the lamps, the tailgate and the body are even. Then run through every function on both sides:
- Running and parking lights.
- Brake lights, with a helper on the pedal.
- Left and right turn signals, hazards, and the sequential sweep.
- Reverse lights, with the truck safely in reverse and the parking brake on.
- Startup animation.
- Check for dashboard warnings, hyperflash or flicker.
Common Issues and Solutions
Tail light does not turn on after installation. Check that the connector is fully seated, and check the related fuse and the battery connection. Inspect the pins inside the connector; if any are bent, carefully straighten them with a small precision tool and reconnect securely.
Hyperflash or a dash warning. Confirm any included decoder or resistor is connected and secured away from heat, moving parts, water paths and sharp edges.
Swap test. If a tail light still does not work, swap the left and right units to find out whether the issue is the light itself or the vehicle wiring.
Condensation inside the tail light. Temperature differences can cause light condensation, which is normal. Once the light has been on for a while and the internal temperature stabilizes, the moisture clears on its own. It does not affect brightness, performance, or lifespan.
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