This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear tail light assembly on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150, including disconnecting the electrical connector and installing the new assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
2. Open tailgate to access rear of bed area
3. Identify which tail light assembly requires replacement (driver or passenger side)

Procedure

1. 1

   Access tail light mounting area
   From inside the bed, locate the tail light assembly access area behind the bed liner or inner bed panel. On some models, you may need to pull back the bed liner edge to access the mounting bolts.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the wiring harness connector behind the tail light assembly. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight out from the tail light assembly. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
3. 3

   Remove tail light mounting bolts
   Using a 7mm socket and ratchet with extension, remove the two mounting bolts securing the tail light assembly to the body. These bolts are accessed from inside the bed area. Keep bolts in a safe location for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove tail light assembly
   Carefully pull the tail light assembly straight back from the vehicle body. The assembly may have alignment pins or clips that require gentle wiggling to release. Do not force the assembly as it may damage mounting tabs.
5. 5

   Inspect mounting surface
   Check the body mounting surface and gasket area for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean the mounting surface with a dry cloth. Verify the gasket or seal on the new tail light assembly is properly positioned.
6. 6

   Install new tail light assembly
   Align the new tail light assembly with the mounting holes and alignment pins in the body. Carefully push the assembly into position, ensuring it seats flush against the body panel and the gasket is not pinched or displaced.
7. 7

   Install and torque mounting bolts
   Insert the two tail light mounting bolts through the assembly and thread them into the body. Hand-tighten both bolts first, then torque to specification using a torque wrench in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating.
   Torque spec

   Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Connect electrical connector
   Align the wiring harness connector with the tail light assembly socket and push firmly until you hear or feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.

Reassembly

1. Reposition bed liner or inner panel to original position if disturbed during access
2. Ensure all wiring is routed properly and not pinched or stressed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine does not need to run)
• Test all tail light functions: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights
• Visually inspect the tail light assembly from outside the vehicle to confirm proper alignment and seating against body panel
• Check for even gap spacing around the assembly perimeter
• Verify no moisture or light leaks around the assembly edges

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