This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the third brake light (center high-mounted stop lamp) on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord sedan.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly × 1 — Honda OEM 34270-TVA-A01 or equivalent
• Trim clips (if broken during removal) × 2 — Honda 91561-SZ5-003 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the ignition.
2. Open the trunk and ensure trunk light is working for visibility.
3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm wrench or socket. Torque on reinstallation: 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft).
4. Wait at least 3 minutes after battery disconnection to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge.
5. Locate the third brake light assembly on the rear package shelf inside the trunk, just below the rear window.

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the third brake light mounting area
   From inside the trunk, locate the rear package shelf trim panel directly below the rear window. The third brake light is visible from inside the vehicle through the rear window, mounted at the top center of the rear deck.
2. 2

   Remove rear package shelf trim fasteners
   Identify the trim clips or screws securing the rear package shelf trim panel. On most 2018-2024 Accord models, there are two Phillips screws near the center area below the third brake light. Remove these screws carefully and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Carefully pull back the package shelf trim
   Using a panel removal tool, gently pry the package shelf trim panel away from the body to release the remaining clips. Work slowly from one side to the other. You only need to create enough clearance to access the third brake light mounting nuts and electrical connector—full removal of the trim panel is not necessary.
   ⚠Trim clips are fragile. Apply gentle, even pressure to avoid breaking clips. Have replacement clips available.
4. 4

   Disconnect the electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the third brake light assembly. Press the release tab on the connector and pull straight back to disconnect. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Note the connector orientation for reassembly.
5. 5

   Remove the third brake light mounting nuts
   Locate the two mounting nuts securing the third brake light assembly to the body (accessed from inside the trunk). Use a 10mm socket or wrench to remove both nuts. Support the light assembly from the outside if possible to prevent it from falling. Remove the light assembly by pulling it inward into the trunk.
6. 6

   Inspect the mounting area and gasket
   Examine the mounting area on the body for any signs of water damage, rust, or debris. Check the rubber gasket on the old third brake light assembly. If the gasket is in good condition and the new assembly does not include a gasket, transfer the old gasket to the new assembly. Ensure the mounting surface is clean and dry.
   ℹ️A damaged or missing gasket can allow water to leak into the trunk. Verify gasket condition before installation.
7. 7

   Install the new third brake light assembly
   Position the new third brake light assembly from inside the trunk, feeding it through the opening in the rear deck. Ensure the gasket is properly seated around the perimeter. Align the mounting studs with the holes in the body. From inside the trunk, thread the mounting nuts onto the studs by hand, then tighten evenly in a crisscross pattern to ensure proper gasket compression. Final tightening should be snug but not overtightened—typically hand-tight plus 1/4 turn.
8. 8

   Reconnect the electrical connector
   Plug the electrical connector back into the third brake light assembly, ensuring it clicks firmly into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated.
9. 9

   Reinstall the package shelf trim
   Align the package shelf trim panel with the body, ensuring all clips are properly positioned. Press firmly around the perimeter to seat the clips. Reinstall the two Phillips screws removed in Step 2 and tighten to 10.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft) if using a torque wrench, or snug by hand.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect the battery
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten.
    ⚠CRITICAL: Battery terminal bolts must be torqued to exactly 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Overtightening can damage the terminal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are securely fastened and all clips are fully seated.
2. Ensure no tools or loose parts remain in the trunk area.
3. Close the trunk and verify proper latch operation.

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine does not need to be running).
• Press the brake pedal and verify the third brake light illuminates brightly. Have an assistant observe from outside the vehicle.
• Release the brake pedal and verify the light turns off completely.
• Cycle the brake pedal several times to confirm consistent operation.
• Check for proper fitment of the light assembly—it should sit flush with the rear deck with no gaps.
• Inspect the trunk interior for any signs of water intrusion after the next rain or car wash.
• If the vehicle is equipped with LED third brake lights, verify all LED segments illuminate. Partial illumination may indicate a defective assembly.
• Test drive the vehicle in a safe area and verify brake lights function normally. If possible, have someone follow to confirm all brake lights are working.

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