Replace the third brake light (center high mount stop lamp) located on the rear liftgate of the 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly (center high mount stop lamp) × 1 — 92400-D3000 or equivalent OEM
• Replacement bulbs (if bulb-only repair) × 1 — W21/5W wedge bulb or LED module depending on trim

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open rear liftgate fully and prop if necessary
4. Verify whether your vehicle has replaceable bulbs or integrated LED assembly by inspecting existing light
5. Allow any recently-used brake lights to cool for 5 minutes before handling

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior liftgate trim panel
   From inside the cargo area with liftgate open, locate the interior trim panel covering the third brake light mounting area. This is typically at the top center of the liftgate, just below the roof spoiler if equipped. On most 2016-2024 Tucson models, the light is accessed from inside the liftgate.
2. 2

   Remove trim cover or access panel
   Carefully pry or remove the small plastic access cover or trim panel using a plastic trim removal tool or cloth-wrapped flathead screwdriver. Some models have two small Phillips screws holding a cover plate; remove these first. Work gently to avoid breaking clips. The cover typically pulls straight down or toward the cargo area.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the third brake light assembly. Press the release tab on the connector and gently pull straight back to disconnect. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Note the orientation of the connector for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting nuts or screws securing the third brake light assembly to the liftgate (typically 2-3 fasteners). Remove these fasteners completely using a Phillips screwdriver or appropriate socket. Keep fasteners in a safe location for reinstallation. On some models, the assembly may have plastic twist-lock tabs instead of screws.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove brake light assembly
   Carefully pull the third brake light assembly away from the liftgate exterior. It may require gentle wiggling to release from any weather seal or alignment pins. Work from the interior side, pushing the assembly outward. Be careful not to drop the assembly or damage the exterior paint.
6. 6

   Replace bulbs or entire assembly
   If your model has replaceable bulbs: twist the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove, then pull the old bulb straight out and insert new W21/5W bulb without touching the glass. If your model has integrated LED: proceed with complete new assembly. Inspect the gasket/seal on the new or existing assembly and replace if damaged.
7. 7

   Install brake light assembly
   Position the brake light assembly into the liftgate opening from the exterior side, ensuring any alignment pins or tabs seat properly. The weather seal must be positioned correctly around the entire perimeter to prevent water intrusion. Press firmly but gently until flush with liftgate exterior surface.
8. 8

   Secure mounting fasteners
   From the interior side, install and tighten the mounting nuts or screws. If using screws in plastic, tighten to 11.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft) as specified for cover screws, or hand-tighten firmly if torque wrench is unavailable. Do not overtighten plastic components. Ensure assembly is secure and does not move when pressed.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Plug the electrical connector into the back of the third brake light assembly, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Test brake light operation
    Before reinstalling trim, have an assistant press the brake pedal while you verify the third brake light illuminates properly. Check for full brightness and no flickering. If light does not illuminate, verify connector is fully seated and check vehicle fuse box for blown brake light fuse (typically 10A or 15A fuse labeled 'STOP' or 'BRAKE').
11. 11

    Reinstall interior trim cover
    Align the interior trim cover or access panel with its mounting location. Press firmly to seat any clips, or reinstall screws if equipped. Ensure the cover is flush and secure. Verify no wires are pinched behind the cover.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure weather seal is properly seated around entire brake light perimeter to prevent water leaks
2. Verify all interior trim panels and covers are securely fastened with no gaps
3. Confirm no tools or parts were left in the liftgate cavity

Verification

• With ignition on, press brake pedal and visually confirm third brake light illuminates from outside vehicle
• Verify light turns off completely when brake pedal is released
• Check for proper seal by inspecting for light gaps around assembly perimeter
• Test drive vehicle and verify brake lights function normally during actual braking
• Have another person verify all three brake lights (left, right, and center) illuminate when brakes are applied
• Inspect cargo area after rain or car wash to ensure no water intrusion around third brake light

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