Turn Signal Bulb - Rear

This procedure covers replacing the rear turn signal bulb on a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with the 2.5L I4 AWD engine by accessing the bulb socket from inside the rear cargo area.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear turn signal bulb (amber) × 1 — WY21W or 7440A bulb, verify owner's manual

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
2. Open rear liftgate for access to cargo area
3. Allow turn signal bulbs to cool if vehicle was recently driven
4. Identify which side (left or right) requires bulb replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Access rear cargo area trim panel
   From inside the cargo area, locate the rear trim panel on the side where the turn signal bulb needs replacement. This panel is directly behind the taillight assembly.
2. 2

   Remove cargo area trim fasteners
   Using a flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool, carefully pry out the plastic push-pin fasteners or clips securing the rear corner trim panel. There are typically 2-3 fasteners. Store fasteners in a safe location for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Pull back trim panel
   Gently pull the trim panel away from the body to expose the back of the taillight assembly. You may need to fold or flex the panel to access the bulb socket. Do not force or tear the panel.
4. 4

   Locate turn signal bulb socket
   Identify the turn signal bulb socket on the back of the taillight assembly. The turn signal socket is typically the amber-colored bulb and is usually positioned in the lower or middle section of the assembly. It may be labeled or color-coded.
5. 5

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

   Remove failed bulb
   Depending on bulb type, either pull the bulb straight out from the socket (wedge base) or push down gently and rotate counterclockwise to remove (bayonet base). Inspect the bulb for a broken filament or darkened glass.
7. 7

   Install new bulb
   Without touching the glass portion of the new bulb, insert it into the socket. For wedge base bulbs, push straight in until seated. For bayonet base, align the pins, push in, and rotate clockwise until locked. Ensure the bulb is fully seated.
8. 8

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

   Test turn signal operation
   Before reassembling trim, turn the ignition to the ON position and activate the turn signal on the repaired side. Verify the new bulb illuminates properly and flashes at the correct rate.
10. 10

    Reinstall cargo trim panel
    Position the trim panel back into place, ensuring all clips and tabs align properly. Press firmly around each fastener location until all push-pins or clips snap securely into position. Verify the panel is flush and properly seated.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panel fasteners are fully seated and the panel is flush with surrounding surfaces
2. Close the rear liftgate and verify it operates normally without interference from the trim panel

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and activate turn signals on both sides to verify proper operation
• Visually inspect the rear turn signal from outside the vehicle to confirm the new bulb illuminates with amber light
• Check that the turn signal flash rate is normal (not rapid or slow, which would indicate a problem)
• Verify the hazard lights function properly with the new bulb installed

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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