Tail Light Assembly

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail light assembly on a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with 2.5L I4 AWD engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open rear liftgate for access to interior trim panels

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the tail light mounting area
   From inside the cargo area, locate the interior trim panel on the side of the tail light being replaced. Carefully pry back or remove the cargo area side trim panel using a trim removal tool to expose the tail light assembly mounting nuts and electrical connector.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the tail light electrical connector behind the assembly. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight out from the tail light assembly. Ensure no damage occurs to the locking tab or connector pins.
3. 3

   Remove tail light mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three tail light mounting bolts securing the assembly to the vehicle body. Support the tail light assembly from the exterior to prevent it from falling as the last bolt is removed.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove tail light assembly
   Carefully pull the tail light assembly straight rearward away from the vehicle body. The assembly has locating pins that must disengage from the body. If resistance is felt, check that all mounting bolts have been removed and gently wiggle the assembly while pulling rearward.
5. 5

   Inspect mounting surface
   Inspect the body mounting surface and seal area for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean the mounting surface with a clean cloth. Check the tail light seal/gasket on the old assembly for condition and transfer to new assembly if needed and in good condition.
6. 6

   Install new tail light assembly
   Align the new tail light assembly with the body mounting holes and locating pins. Ensure the seal/gasket is properly positioned. Press the assembly firmly into place until it seats flush against the body panel.
7. 7

   Install and torque mounting bolts
   Thread all three tail light mounting bolts by hand to prevent cross-threading. Once all bolts are started, torque them in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the assembly against the body.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the tail light socket and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked.
9. 9

   Reinstall interior trim panel
   Align the cargo area side trim panel with its mounting clips and press firmly into place until all clips engage. Ensure the panel is fully seated with no gaps.

Reassembly

1. Torque all tail light mounting bolts to specification using a cross pattern
2. Verify electrical connector is fully locked with audible click
3. Ensure interior trim panel is fully seated and secure

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and activate all light functions: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights
• Visually inspect all tail light functions from exterior to confirm proper operation
• Check for proper seating of tail light assembly with no gaps between assembly and body panel
• Verify no moisture can enter by inspecting seal continuity around entire perimeter
• Confirm interior trim panel is properly secured with no rattles

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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