How to Replace a 2008 Nissan Altima Tail Lamp

The Altima hit showrooms in the 1993 model year, following the deletion of the Stanza from Nissans lineup. The Altima added a new, modern touch to the Japanese automakers lineup with its sleek body and powerful four-cylinder engine. The fourth-gen Altima arrived in 2007 bearing a sportier design than ever before, and a retuned suspension for optimal handling. Replacing a taillight in the 2008 is fairly easy, despite the new, sportier look to the Altima.

Instructions

1

Open the trunk and remove the plastic clips securing the trunk trim that blocks access to the rear of the taillight assembly, by prying the center pin from each clip with a flat-head screwdriver, then prying the clips from the trunk trim. Pull the trim toward the front of the vehicle to expose the two taillight assembly nuts.

2

Pull the wire-routing clip from the lower taillight stud. Remove the two taillight assembly nuts, using a ratchet and socket, and pull the taillight assembly from the rear of the vehicle.

3

Twist the taillight bulb socket counterclockwise to unlock it and pull the socket and bulb from the taillight assembly. Pull the taillight bulb from the socket with a slight wiggling motion.

4

Hold a new No. 3157 taillight bulb with a clean, lint-free cloth touching the bulb with your bare hands may cause the bulb to fail prematurely and press it into the socket. Reinstall the bulb and socket into the taillight assembly and twist the socket clockwise to lock it in place.

5

Align the taillight assembly studs with the holes in the taillight assembly bed and guide the taillight assembly back onto the vehicle. Tighten the two taillight assembly buts with a ratchet and socket until they are snug and press the wire-routing clip back into place on the lower taillight assembly stud.

6

Pull the carpet into its original position and press the two plastic clips into their respective holes. Press the center pin into each plastic clip to lock them in place. Close the trunk.