This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail light assembly on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, including disconnecting the electrical connector and installing a new assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all lights and remove key from ignition
3. Open tailgate for better access to tail light assembly area
4. Identify which tail light assembly needs replacement (driver or passenger side)

Procedure

1. 1

   Access tail light mounting bolts
   From inside the bed, locate the tail light assembly mounting area. On the bed side wall near the rear corner, you will find two 8mm mounting bolts that secure the tail light assembly from the inside. These are accessible without removing any panels.
2. 2

   Remove upper mounting bolt
   Using an 8mm socket with extension, remove the upper tail light mounting bolt. Keep the bolt in a safe location for reinstallation. The bolt may have a captive washer.
3. 3

   Remove lower mounting bolt
   Using an 8mm socket with extension, remove the lower tail light mounting bolt. Retain this bolt with the upper bolt for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Pull tail light assembly from body
   From the outside of the vehicle, carefully pull the tail light assembly straight back away from the body. The assembly is held by the two bolts you removed and may also have alignment pins or clips. Apply steady, even pressure and gently wiggle if needed. Do not force or pry excessively to avoid breaking mounting tabs.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Once the assembly is pulled away from the body approximately 2-3 inches, reach behind and locate the electrical connector. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight off the tail light assembly. If the connector is difficult to access, you may pull the assembly further out while being careful of the wiring harness.
6. 6

   Remove old tail light assembly
   With the electrical connector disconnected, completely remove the old tail light assembly from the vehicle. Inspect the mounting area on the body for any dirt, debris, or damage. Clean the mounting surface if necessary.
7. 7

   Prepare new tail light assembly
   Unpack the new tail light assembly and verify it matches the old unit. Check that all mounting tabs are intact and the lens is free from cracks or defects. Ensure any protective film is removed from the lens.
8. 8

   Connect electrical connector to new assembly
   Connect the electrical connector to the new tail light assembly. Push firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
9. 9

   Install new tail light assembly
   Carefully guide the new tail light assembly into position on the vehicle body, aligning any alignment pins or guides. Ensure the wiring is not pinched or kinked. Push the assembly firmly against the body until it is fully seated and flush with the surrounding body panel.
10. 10

    Install and torque mounting bolts
    From inside the bed, install the upper and lower tail light mounting bolts by hand. Once both bolts are started, use a torque wrench with 8mm socket to tighten each bolt to specification in a cross pattern (alternate between upper and lower). This ensures even pressure on the assembly.
    Torque spec

    Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify tail light assembly is flush with body panel all around the perimeter
2. Ensure no gaps exist between the assembly and body that could allow water intrusion
3. Close tailgate after completing installation

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
• Activate parking lights and verify tail light illuminates
• Press brake pedal and verify brake light function
• Turn on hazard lights and verify turn signal function on the replaced assembly
• If equipped, verify reverse lights function when transmission is in reverse
• Visually inspect for any moisture or condensation inside the new lens
• Confirm the assembly remains secure and does not rattle or move when pushed gently by hand

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