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how do you replace a broken tail light?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by kevtphoto, Dec 17, 2008.

  1. kevtphoto

    kevtphoto New Member

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    my wife backed into something and broke the clear glass of the tail light (driver's side). now i'm responsible to fix it. it looks like i have to replace the whole thing (lights, lens and all)????
    i'm thinking of going to a salvage place and doing this myself because our deductable is so darn high. is this a difficult repair for someone who is not a mechanic?
    if it's not difficult, how do you go about replacing the tail light?
     
    #1 kevtphoto, Dec 17, 2008
  2. dogfriend

    dogfriend Human - Animal Hybrid

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    :welcome:
     

    Attached Files:

    #2 dogfriend, Dec 18, 2008
  3. maseace

    maseace Prius enthusiast

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    The instructions don't tell you that you need to remove the side cloth panels to get to the nuts that allow the light to be removed.

    Make sure you get a light from a 2004 or 2005, they are different on the 2006-up.
     
    #3 maseace, Dec 18, 2008
  4. Rokeby

    Rokeby Member

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    kevtphoto,

    This not a difficult job, but if it's the first time you've pulled out an interior
    panel, it will provke some anxeity... wholly unnecessary you'll admit once
    its completed.

    I used the pdf dogfriend posted and had no problems. (Can't get it open
    right now for a quick review though, oh well.) I would say that you need
    to be especially mindful when you're closing things up;
    * Do not over-tighten the four bolts; two are on plastic studs, two are
    on steel, but either way over tightening could break them free from the
    back of the assembly.
    * Be sure to get the new assembly is well seated. The gasketing is all
    that keeps water out of the car. It would be wise to do a hose test after
    reinstallation. Any water that gets through will collect under the floor,
    down by the spare.

    Hope this helps.
     
    #4 Rokeby, Dec 18, 2008
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