How to Change the Third Brake Light in a 2006 Jeep Cherokee

The 2005 model year was an important year for the Grand Cherokee, as Jeep completely redesigned the SUV. Jeep changed the SUV's base engine to a 210-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 and added the option of a 325-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8. The redesign also brought about a complete overhaul of the SUV's exterior, including all-new headlights and brake lights. There was only one visual carryover in the design of the brake lights from 2004 to 2005: the third brake light, which remained mounted on top of the rear hatch. Changing the third brake light in the 2005 Cherokee requires removal of the third brake light assembly.

Instructions

1

Set a step ladder at the rear of the Grand Cherokee, near the center of the rear hatch.

2

Climb the ladder until you can reach the two screws securing the third brake light assembly. Remove these screws with a Phillips screwdriver and pull the assembly from the Grand Cherokee.

3

Grab the socket on the rear of the third brake light assembly and twist it counterclockwise to unlock it. Pull the socket from the third brake light assembly.

4

Pull the failed bulb from the socket, with a slight wiggling motion. Grab a new 921 light bulb, using a clean, lint-free cloth, and press it into the socket. Don't touch the bulb with your bare hands, as the oils from your hands may cause the bulb to burn out prematurely.

5

Insert the socket and new bulb into the rear of the third brake light assembly and twist it clockwise to lock it in place.

6

Set the third brake light assembly back on the Cherokee and tighten the two screws, using a Phillips screwdriver.

7

Remove the ladder from behind the Cherokee.