Tail Light Bulb

Replace the tail light bulb assembly in a 2008 Dodge Viper by accessing the bulb housing from inside the trunk.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light bulb (3157 or equivalent) × 1 — 3157 or verify existing bulb type

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all lights and remove key from ignition
3. Open trunk fully to access interior tail light assemblies

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate tail light assembly access panel
   Access to the tail light bulbs on the 2008 Viper may be from behind the rear fascia or through the rear storage/trunk area depending on body style (coupe vs. convertible). Verify the correct access method against the factory service manual before proceeding, as this vehicle does not use a conventional trunk liner arrangement.
2. 2

   Remove trunk liner fasteners if present
   Check for any fasteners or clips securing the trunk liner panel covering the tail light assembly area. Remove any Phillips screws or push-pin fasteners found to allow access to the bulb holder. Gently pull back the liner to expose the back of the tail light assembly.
3. 3

   Identify the bulb socket
   Locate the specific bulb socket for the failed tail light. The tail light assembly contains multiple bulbs (brake, turn signal, reverse). Identify the correct socket by function: with the assembly accessible, have an assistant activate the tail lights, brake, turn signal, and reverse in turn to positively confirm which socket corresponds to the failed tail light before removing any bulb.
4. 4

   Remove bulb socket from housing
   Grasp the bulb socket firmly and rotate counterclockwise approximately one-quarter turn until it releases from the tail light housing. Pull the socket straight out from the housing to access the bulb.
5. 5

   Remove failed bulb
   Confirm the bulb base type first. If it is a bayonet-style bulb, press the bulb gently into the socket while rotating counterclockwise to release it; if it is a wedge-type bulb, pull it straight out of the socket. Remove the failed bulb from the socket and inspect the socket for any corrosion or damage.
6. 6

   Install new bulb
   Insert the new bulb into the socket. For bayonet-style bulbs, press in gently and rotate clockwise until it locks. For wedge-style bulbs, press firmly into place. Verify the bulb is fully seated and secure in the socket.
7. 7

   Reinstall bulb socket
   Insert the bulb socket back into the tail light housing, aligning the tabs with the slots. Rotate clockwise approximately one-quarter turn until the socket locks into place.
8. 8

   Test tail light operation
   Turn the ignition to the accessory or on position and test the tail light function. Have an assistant verify the light illuminates properly, or observe the reflection in a wall or garage door. Test brake lights and turn signals to ensure proper operation.
9. 9

   Reinstall trunk liner
   Position the trunk liner back into place and secure with any fasteners or clips removed earlier. Ensure all clips are fully seated and the liner sits flush.

Reassembly

1. Ensure bulb socket is fully locked into housing with no gaps
2. Verify trunk liner is properly secured and does not interfere with trunk closing
3. Confirm all removed fasteners have been reinstalled

Verification

• Turn on headlight switch and verify tail light illuminates
• Press brake pedal and verify brake light function on replaced side
• Activate turn signal and verify proper operation
• Close trunk and verify no interference with liner or bulb assembly

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