Turn Signal Bulb - Rear

Replace the rear turn signal bulb by accessing the bulb socket from inside the trunk area.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear turn signal bulb (amber) × 1 — 7440/WY21W bulb or equivalent OEM

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level surface with parking brake engaged
2. Turn off all lights and remove key from ignition
3. Open trunk lid fully for access to rear taillight assembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Access tail light assembly from trunk
   From inside the trunk, locate the fabric or carpet trunk liner panel behind the tail light assembly on the side requiring bulb replacement. Pull back the trunk liner to expose the rear of the tail light housing.
2. 2

   Locate turn signal bulb socket
   Identify the turn signal bulb socket on the back of the tail light assembly. The turn signal socket is typically the amber/yellow bulb position. On the 2015 Forte, this is usually the middle or lower socket position depending on sedan or coupe configuration.
3. 3

   Remove bulb socket
   Grasp the bulb socket firmly and rotate counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it releases from the tail light housing. Pull the socket straight out from the housing.
4. 4

   Remove failed bulb
   Press the bulb gently into the socket and rotate counterclockwise to unlock it from the bayonet-style socket, then pull the bulb straight out. If bulb does not use bayonet mount, simply pull straight out from socket.
5. 5

   Install new bulb
   Using a clean cloth or gloves to avoid touching the glass, insert the new bulb into the socket. If bayonet-style, align the pins with the socket slots, press in gently, and rotate clockwise until it locks. If wedge-style, push firmly until fully seated.
6. 6

   Reinstall bulb socket
   Insert the bulb socket back into the tail light housing, aligning the tabs with the slots. Rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks securely into place.
7. 7

   Test operation
   Turn the ignition to the ON position and activate the turn signal to verify the new bulb illuminates properly. Check both the indicator on the dash and visually confirm the rear turn signal is flashing at normal speed.
8. 8

   Restore trunk liner
   Return the trunk liner panel to its original position, ensuring it is properly seated and does not interfere with the tail light assembly or bulb socket.

Reassembly

1. Ensure bulb socket is fully locked into tail light housing with no gaps
2. Verify trunk liner is properly positioned and will not rattle or interfere with tail light components

Verification

• Activate turn signal and confirm new bulb flashes at normal rate without hyper-flashing
• Walk around vehicle to visually confirm proper operation of replaced turn signal
• Verify dash indicator shows normal flash rate indicating proper bulb installation
• Check that bulb socket is secure and cannot be pulled out without rotating

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