Tail Light Assembly

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail light assembly on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo RWD, including proper disconnection and torque specifications.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly (left or right as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Plastic trim clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Open rear liftgate for better access to cargo area
4. Allow adequate working space around the affected rear quarter panel

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior trunk trim panel
   Open the rear liftgate and locate the interior trunk trim panel on the side corresponding to the tail light being replaced. This is a carpeted panel on the inner side wall of the cargo area.
2. 2

   Remove trunk side trim panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the plastic trim clips securing the trunk side trim panel. There are typically 4-6 clips along the panel edge. Gently pull the panel away from the body to expose the tail light assembly mounting area. Set the panel aside in a safe location.
   ⚠Use plastic trim tools to avoid damaging the trim panel finish or breaking clips
3. 3

   Disconnect tail light electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the rear of the tail light assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull straight back to disconnect it from the tail light. Ensure the connector is fully separated and moved aside to prevent damage.
4. 4

   Remove tail light mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the tail light mounting bolts securing the assembly to the body. There are typically 3 bolts accessible from inside the trunk area. Keep track of all bolts and any washers or spacers.
   Torque spec

   Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove tail light assembly from vehicle
   From the exterior of the vehicle, carefully pull the tail light assembly straight back away from the body. The assembly may have alignment pins that need to disengage from the body. Use gentle, even pressure to avoid breaking mounting tabs. Once free, bring the assembly into the trunk area and remove it completely.
   ⚠Support the assembly weight while removing to prevent it from falling and breaking
6. 6

   Prepare new tail light assembly
   Remove the new tail light assembly from its packaging. Inspect it for any shipping damage. Clean the mounting surface on the vehicle body with a microfiber cloth to ensure proper seating and seal. Verify that any rubber seals or gaskets are properly positioned on the new assembly.
7. 7

   Install new tail light assembly
   Position the new tail light assembly from inside the trunk area, aligning the mounting pins with their corresponding holes in the body. Carefully push the assembly forward until it seats flush against the vehicle body. Verify proper alignment and that all mounting points are correctly positioned.
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting bolts
   Insert all three tail light mounting bolts and any washers or spacers in their original positions. Hand-tighten all bolts first to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure and proper sealing.
   Torque spec

   Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Reconnect the electrical connector to the tail light assembly by aligning the connector and pushing firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall trunk trim panel
    Position the trunk side trim panel back into place, aligning all mounting points. Press firmly on each clip location until all clips snap securely into place. Verify the panel is flush and properly seated along all edges.

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are securely fastened with no gaps or loose areas
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the trunk area
3. Close the rear liftgate and verify proper operation

Verification

• Turn on the vehicle ignition to the accessory position
• Test all tail light functions: parking lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights
• Walk around the vehicle to visually inspect that the new tail light is functioning properly and all bulbs illuminate
• Verify the tail light assembly is flush with the body panel and properly sealed with no gaps
• Have an assistant operate the lights while you verify proper operation from outside the vehicle
• Check for any warning messages on the instrument cluster related to exterior lighting

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