Fits: 2017-2021 Honda Civic 10th generation hatchback (FK7) and Type R (FK8).
Required Tools
- Plastic trim removal tool or flathead screwdriver
- 8mm socket and ratchet
- 10mm socket
- Masking tape
Step 1: Remove the Inner Trunk Trim Panels
Open the hatch. Use a trim tool to remove the two small clips securing the grab handle covers, remove the handles, then pull down the large plastic trim panel to release it from its clips.
Step 2: Remove the Spoiler Trim
The upper tail light bolts sit behind the spoiler trim piece. Remove the two bolts securing the trim (one on each side), then carefully pull the trim piece outward to release it.
Step 3: Remove the Outer Tail Lights
Remove the two screws securing the outer tail light. Push the light forward and up to release the clips, then unplug the factory connectors.
Step 4: Connect the Adapter Harness
Connect the included adapter harness to the factory plugs. Match each connector by its shape (for example, white to the green socket and gray to the gray socket). A connector only fits the socket it belongs to, so never force one in.
Step 5: Route the Wiring for the Upper Light Bar
Route the harness for the upper light bar through the hatch, passing it through the rubber grommet or existing holes to reach the top section, and connect it to the new upper light.
Tip: use a stiff wire or fish tape to guide the harness through the long rubber tube.
Step 6: Install the New Lights and Reassemble
Install the new outer and upper tail lights and secure them with the original screws. Test the brake, turn signal and reverse lights, then reinstall the spoiler trim and inner hatch panels in reverse order.
The standard version is now fully installed. The next section applies only to RGB and Digital models.
RGB and Digital Models: Star Light Running App Setup
1. Remote control pairing. The remote comes pre-paired with the lamps and switches to Red Light Driving Mode (static red, no flowing animation) with one press. If the remote does not work, press the brake pedal and hold the remote button for 10 seconds to pair it again.
2. Animation control. The app controls the running-light animations. The startup animation is preset and cannot be changed.
3. Download the app. Search for "Star Light Running" in the App Store or Google Play, or scan the QR code on the controller box.
4. Bluetooth connection. Open the app, tap Add Device (Figure 2), open the interface (Figure 3), and select the nearby device.
5. Adjusting modes.
- Dynamic mode: the number in the center of the blue box shows the current mode. Tap + or - to switch effects, or AUTO to cycle through all of them.
- Static color: drag the color wheel in the green box, or tap a preset color. This stops any running animation.
- Brightness: drag the slider in the first row of the red box.
- Speed: drag the slider in the last row of the red box.
Tip: if you used the older "Light Running" app and have trouble connecting, use "Star Light Running", the upgraded version.
Only one side responds? The left and right lights sync through a signal wire. Check that the sync wire between them is plugged in securely.
Common Issues and Solutions
Tail light does not turn on after installation. Check that the harness connectors are fully seated. Inspect the pins inside each connector; if any are bent, carefully straighten them with a small precision tool and reconnect securely.
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.
App cannot connect. Turn on Bluetooth and Location Services on your phone (Android needs Location for Bluetooth scanning). The vehicle's running lights (parking lights) must be on to power the Bluetooth module. Keep other strong signal sources away from the vehicle.
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.
Shop LED Lights for Your Civic
See all PrismBeam LED lights for the 2017-2021 Honda Civic Hatchback or the 2017-2021 Civic Type R
