Replace the tail light bulb on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine by accessing the bulb assembly from inside the trunk.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light bulb 1157 × 1 — Standard 1157 dual-filament bulb

Preparation

1. Open trunk lid and locate the tail light assembly access panel on the interior side wall
2. Ensure the lighting circuit is off and vehicle has cooled if recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove trunk interior access panel
   Locate the cardboard or plastic access panel behind the tail light assembly on the interior trunk wall. Remove the Phillips screws or fasteners securing the panel and set aside. On the 1970 Rebel, this is typically a small rectangular panel directly behind each tail light unit.
2. 2

   Access bulb socket
   With the access panel removed, locate the tail light bulb socket assembly. The socket is accessed from the rear by reaching through the opening. Identify the correct socket for the failed bulb - the 1157 bulb is used for brake/tail light function on this model.
3. 3

   Remove bulb socket
   Grasp the bulb socket firmly and rotate counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it stops. Pull the socket straight back out of the tail light housing. The socket and bulb will come out as one assembly.
4. 4

   Remove failed bulb
   Press the bulb firmly into the socket while rotating counterclockwise to release the bayonet-style connection. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket. Inspect the socket for corrosion or damage and clean with a cloth if necessary.
5. 5

   Install new bulb
   Using a clean cloth or gloves, insert the new 1157 bulb into the socket. Press in and rotate clockwise until it locks into place. Ensure the bulb is seated fully and does not move loosely in the socket.
6. 6

   Reinstall socket assembly
   Align the socket with the opening in the tail light housing, ensuring the alignment tabs match their slots. Push the socket into the housing and rotate clockwise 1/4 turn until it locks firmly in place.
7. 7

   Reinstall access panel
   Position the trunk interior access panel back into place and secure with the original Phillips screws or fasteners. Ensure the panel is flush and properly seated.

Reassembly

1. Close trunk lid after verifying all fasteners are secure

Verification

• Turn on parking lights and verify tail light illuminates at lower intensity
• Have an assistant press brake pedal while you verify the tail light brightens to full intensity
• Check turn signals if applicable to the replaced bulb position

More procedures for this vehicle