This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear tail light assembly on the 2016-2021 Honda Civic sedan, including proper disconnection of electrical connectors and securing fasteners.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trunk liner trim clips × 2 — Honda 91503-SZ3-003 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off ignition and remove key/fob from vehicle
3. Open trunk fully to access interior trim panels
4. Identify which side (driver or passenger) requires tail light replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Access trunk interior liner
   Locate the trunk side liner panel on the side corresponding to the tail light being replaced. The liner is held by plastic clips and may have a fabric or carpeted finish. Gently pull back the liner starting from the rear corner near the tail light to expose the back of the tail light assembly.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the tail light assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight back from the tail light housing. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Set the connector aside in a safe location where it will not be damaged.
3. 3

   Remove tail light mounting nuts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three mounting nuts securing the tail light assembly to the body panel. These nuts are located on studs that protrude from the back of the tail light housing through the body panel. Keep track of all nuts and washers for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove tail light assembly from vehicle
   From the exterior of the vehicle, gently pull the tail light assembly straight back away from the body. The assembly is seated with locating pins and a seal. Apply even pressure and wiggle slightly if needed, but do not pry or force. Once the assembly begins to move, continue pulling straight back until it is completely free from the vehicle.
5. 5

   Inspect mounting points and seal
   Inspect the body panel mounting studs for damage or corrosion. Check the rubber seal/gasket on the back of the tail light assembly (or on the body panel) for damage, deterioration, or proper seating. If the seal is damaged, it should be replaced to prevent water intrusion. Clean any dirt or debris from the mounting surface on the body panel.
6. 6

   Install new tail light assembly
   Ensure the gasket/seal is properly positioned on the new tail light assembly. Align the mounting studs on the back of the assembly with the holes in the body panel. Press the assembly firmly and evenly into place until it is fully seated against the body panel. Verify that the assembly is flush with the surrounding body panels and properly aligned.
7. 7

   Install and torque mounting nuts
   From inside the trunk, thread the three mounting nuts onto the studs by hand until finger-tight. Tighten the nuts in a cross pattern (top, then bottom opposite, then remaining) to ensure even seating. Torque all three nuts to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the socket on the back of the tail light assembly. Push the connector firmly into place until you hear or feel a distinct click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
9. 9

   Reinstall trunk liner
   Carefully reposition the trunk side liner panel, ensuring it sits properly in its original location. Press firmly on all clip locations to secure the panel. Replace any broken clips with new ones. Verify the liner is fully seated and does not interfere with trunk operation.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all mounting nuts are torqued to specification and the assembly is firmly seated
2. Verify the electrical connector is fully engaged with a positive click
3. Check that trunk liner is properly reinstalled and all clips are secure

Verification

• Turn on the ignition and activate all tail light functions: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights (if applicable to the replaced assembly)
• Visually inspect each light function from outside the vehicle to confirm proper operation
• Check for water-tight seal by inspecting the gap between the tail light and body panel - there should be no visible gaps
• Verify the tail light assembly is flush with surrounding body panels and properly aligned
• Inspect trunk area for any tools or parts left behind before closing trunk

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