Turn Signal Bulb - Rear

Replace the rear turn signal bulb on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L Turbo by accessing the taillight assembly from inside the trunk.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• 7440A amber turn signal bulb × 1 — Honda 34906-SDA-A01 or equivalent 7440A amber bulb

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
2. Open trunk lid fully and ensure adequate lighting for the work area
3. Identify which side (left or right) requires bulb replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Access trunk interior panel
   Locate the trunk interior trim panel on the side where the bulb needs replacement. The panel covers the back of the taillight assembly.
2. 2

   Remove trunk trim fasteners
   Remove the plastic trim clips or screws securing the trunk side panel. On most 2016-2021 Civics, there are 2-3 push-pin style clips. Gently pry the center of each clip upward with a trim tool or small flathead screwdriver, then remove the entire clip. Set clips aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Pull back trunk trim panel
   Carefully pull the trunk trim panel away from the taillight area to expose the back of the taillight assembly. You do not need to fully remove the panel, just fold it back enough to access the bulb sockets.
4. 4

   Identify turn signal bulb socket
   Locate the turn signal bulb socket on the back of the taillight assembly. The turn signal is typically the amber-colored socket, usually positioned in the middle or lower section of the assembly. There will be multiple sockets for brake, turn, and reverse lights.
5. 5

   Remove bulb socket
   Grasp the turn signal bulb socket firmly and rotate it counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn (90 degrees) until it releases from the housing. Pull the socket straight out from the taillight assembly.
6. 6

   Remove old bulb
   With the socket removed, grasp the bulb and pull it straight out of the socket. The 7440A bulb uses a wedge-style base and should pull out with light force. Inspect the socket for any corrosion or damage.
7. 7

   Install new bulb
   Insert the new 7440A amber turn signal bulb into the socket by pushing it straight in until it seats fully. The bulb will only fit one way due to the offset pins on the base. Avoid touching the glass portion of the bulb.
8. 8

   Reinstall bulb socket
   Insert the bulb socket back into the taillight assembly opening, aligning the tabs properly. Rotate the socket clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks securely into place. Gently tug on the socket to confirm it is locked.
9. 9

   Test turn signal operation
   Before reassembling trim, turn the ignition to the ON position and activate the turn signal for the side you just replaced. Verify the turn signal flashes at the correct rate and the bulb illuminates properly.
10. 10

    Reinstall trunk trim panel
    Reposition the trunk trim panel back into place. Reinstall all push-pin clips by first inserting the outer portion of the clip into the hole, then pressing the center pin down until it clicks flush. Ensure the panel is secure and sits flush.

Reassembly

1. Verify all trunk trim clips are fully seated and the panel is secure
2. Close trunk lid and perform final exterior inspection of taillight

Verification

• Test turn signals on both sides to confirm proper operation and correct flash rate
• Check that hazard lights function properly with the new bulb
• Visually inspect from outside the vehicle that the new bulb illuminates with proper brightness and color
• Ensure no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster indicating a bulb failure

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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