This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail light assembly on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, including bulb replacement and electrical connector service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• Tail light bulbs (if needed) × 1 — 3157 or 7443 bulb type depending on year

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
2. Open tailgate or rear door for access to tail light area
3. If replacing both assemblies, work on one side at a time to maintain reference for installation

Procedure

1. 1

   Access tail light mounting fasteners
   From the exterior of the vehicle, locate the two T15 Torx screws securing the tail light assembly to the rear body panel. These are visible on the face of the tail light housing near the top and bottom edges.
2. 2

   Remove mounting screws
   Using the T15 Torx driver, remove both mounting screws completely. Retain screws for reinstallation. The tail light assembly will now be loose but still connected by the wiring harness.
3. 3

   Pull assembly away from body
   Carefully pull the tail light assembly straight away from the body panel. The assembly is retained by alignment pins and may require gentle wiggling. Do not pull hard on the wiring harness.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the back of the tail light assembly. Press the release tab on the connector and pull the connector straight away from the tail light socket. If connector is stubborn, gently pry with a small flathead screwdriver while pressing the release tab.
5. 5

   Remove tail light assembly
   With the connector disconnected, remove the tail light assembly completely from the vehicle. Inspect the mounting area and body panel for corrosion or damage.
6. 6

   Inspect and prepare new assembly
   Inspect the new tail light assembly for damage. Check that the rubber seal gasket is properly seated in the groove around the perimeter of the assembly. If reusing the old assembly, inspect bulbs and sockets for corrosion or damage. Clean all contact surfaces with a shop towel.
7. 7

   Apply dielectric grease (optional)
   Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the electrical connector terminals on both the vehicle harness and tail light assembly to prevent moisture intrusion and improve connection reliability.
8. 8

   Connect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the socket on the back of the tail light assembly and press firmly until you hear or feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged.
9. 9

   Position tail light assembly
   Align the tail light assembly with the mounting holes in the body panel. Ensure the alignment pins on the assembly locate properly in the body panel holes and the rubber seal seats evenly against the body surface.
10. 10

    Install mounting screws
    Insert both T15 Torx mounting screws and tighten by hand until snug. Do not overtighten as this can crack the plastic housing. Screws should be tight enough to compress the seal evenly but not deform the assembly.

Reassembly

1. Verify both mounting screws are evenly tightened and the assembly sits flush against the body panel
2. Check that the rubber seal is not pinched or displaced around the entire perimeter

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine does not need to run) and test all tail light functions: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights
• Have an assistant press the brake pedal while you verify brake light operation
• Activate turn signals and verify proper operation on both sides
• Shift to reverse (with brake applied) and verify reverse light illumination
• Inspect the tail light seal for proper seating with no gaps or misalignment

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