Replace the center high-mounted stop lamp (third brake light) assembly located on the rear cab panel of the F-150.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Center high-mounted stop lamp assembly × 1 — Ford part number varies by trim level (with or without cargo light)

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn ignition OFF
2. Lower tailgate fully for access to rear cab panel
3. Determine if your third brake light assembly includes integrated cargo light (typically on Lariat and higher trims)
4. Verify replacement lamp assembly matches original configuration

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the lamp assembly mounting screws
   From inside the truck bed with tailgate lowered, locate the third brake light assembly on the rear cab panel above the rear window. Identify the two mounting screws on either end of the lamp assembly lens. On some models these are Phillips head screws, on others they are T15 Torx screws.
2. 2

   Remove mounting screws
   Using the appropriate screwdriver or Torx driver, remove both mounting screws from the lamp assembly. Set screws aside in a safe location. The assembly will be loose but still connected by the electrical harness.
3. 3

   Pull assembly away from cab panel
   Carefully pull the lamp assembly away from the rear cab panel. It may require gentle prying with a plastic trim tool if sealed with weatherstrip adhesive. Pull the assembly out far enough to access the electrical connector on the back side, approximately 4-6 inches.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the back of the lamp assembly. Press the release tab on the connector while pulling the connector away from the lamp assembly. If equipped with a cargo light, there may be a second connector - disconnect both connectors. Remove the old lamp assembly completely.
5. 5

   Clean mounting surface
   Use a clean cloth to wipe away any dirt, debris, or old weatherstrip material from the mounting surface on the cab panel. Ensure the surface is clean and dry for proper seal of the new assembly.
6. 6

   Connect new lamp assembly
   Take the new lamp assembly and connect the electrical connector(s) to the vehicle harness. Ensure the connector locks fully into place with an audible click. If equipped with cargo light, connect both the brake light and cargo light connectors to their respective harness connections.
7. 7

   Position and secure new assembly
   Align the new lamp assembly with the mounting holes in the cab panel. Ensure any gasket or weatherstrip seal is properly positioned. Press the assembly firmly into place against the cab panel, then install both mounting screws finger-tight first, then snug evenly. Do not overtighten plastic-mounted screws.

Reassembly

1. Ensure lamp assembly sits flush against cab panel with no gaps that could allow water intrusion
2. Verify mounting screws are snug but not overtightened to avoid cracking the lens housing

Verification

• With ignition ON, have an assistant press the brake pedal while you verify the third brake light illuminates fully and brightly
• If equipped with cargo light function, verify the cargo light operates when activated
• Check that all LEDs in the lamp assembly illuminate - replace assembly if any LEDs are non-functional
• Inspect the seal around the lamp assembly for proper fit with no visible gaps
• Test brake lights multiple times to ensure consistent operation before returning vehicle to service

More procedures for this vehicle