How to Install Tail Lights on a 2005 Honda Element

In 2003, Honda released a popular, but unusual, box-on-wheels SUV -- the Element. The Element retained its box-like design through 2011, despite a mild redesign in 2009. Despite its unorthodox design, replacing the taillights on the 2005 Element is a straightforward task. Only two screws inside the rear hatch jamb hold the taillight assembly in place on the rear of the vehicle. Replacing these lights is a task that any owner of an Element should know how to do.

Instructions

1

Open the Element's rear hatch and tailgate. Remove the two screws on the inner part of the taillight lens assembly, using a Phillips screwdriver.

2

Pull the taillight lens assembly from the rear of the Element. Twist the socket on the lower, rear part of the taillight lens assembly counterclockwise to unlock it. Pull the socket and bulb from the taillight lens assembly.

3

Pull the failed taillight from the socket with a slight wiggling motion. Grab a new 7443 bulb with a clean, lint-free cloth and press it into the socket. Touching the bulb with your bare hands may cause the bulb to fail prematurely.

4

Insert the bulb and socket into the rear of the taillight lens assembly and twist the socket clockwise to lock it into place.

5

Set the taillight lens assembly back in place on the rear of the Element and tighten the two screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

6

Repeat Steps 1 through 5 to replace the taillight on the other side of the Element, if needed.

7

Close the Element's rear hatch.