Third Brake Light

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the third brake light (center high-mounted stop lamp) assembly on the 2017 Maserati Levante, including interior trim removal and electrical connector access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly (CHMSL) × 1 — Use OEM Maserati part number
• Interior trim clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Open rear hatch fully and secure in open position
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system discharge
4. Remove any cargo or items from rear cargo area for access
5. Verify replacement brake light assembly matches OEM specifications and connector type
6. Clean work area and prepare trim removal tools to avoid damaging interior panels

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove upper cargo trim panel
   From inside the cargo area, locate the upper trim panel that covers the rear hatch opening. Using trim panel removal tools, carefully release the retaining clips starting from the sides and working toward the center. There are typically 6-8 push-type clips securing this panel. Pull the panel away gently to avoid breaking clips. Set aside with clips oriented for reassembly.
2. 2

   Access third brake light mounting area
   With the upper trim removed, locate the third brake light assembly mounted behind the rear glass. The assembly is positioned at the top center of the hatch glass. You should now see the back of the light housing and the electrical connector. Use the work light to clearly identify all mounting points.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the rear of the third brake light assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector straight off the light assembly. Do not pull on wires. If connector is difficult to remove, spray with electrical contact cleaner and gently wiggle while pulling. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Remove mounting fasteners
   The third brake light is secured by mounting screws or bolts (typically 2-4 fasteners). Using the appropriate Torx driver or socket, remove all mounting fasteners. Note the location and length of each fastener as they may vary. Keep fasteners organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove failed brake light assembly
   Carefully pull the brake light assembly away from its mounting position. The assembly may have alignment pins or guides that require slight angling to remove. Support the assembly to prevent it from falling. Inspect the mounting area for debris, water damage, or seal degradation. Clean mounting surface if necessary.
6. 6

   Prepare new brake light assembly
   Remove new brake light from packaging and verify it matches the original unit in size, connector type, and mounting configuration. Check that any gasket or seal is properly positioned on the new assembly. If dielectric grease is available, apply a thin coat to the electrical connector terminals to prevent corrosion.
7. 7

   Install new brake light assembly
   Position the new third brake light assembly into the mounting location, aligning any guide pins or tabs with their corresponding slots. Ensure the assembly is fully seated and flush with the surrounding surface. The seal or gasket should compress evenly around the perimeter.
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting fasteners
   Install all mounting fasteners hand-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Then torque the mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern (if multiple bolts) to ensure even pressure distribution and proper sealing. Verify the assembly remains flush and properly aligned after torquing.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the brake light assembly terminals and press firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked. Ensure no wires are pinched or strained.
10. 10

    Test brake light operation
    Before reinstalling trim panels, reconnect the battery negative terminal. With an assistant or using a mirror, turn the ignition to ON position and press the brake pedal. Verify the third brake light illuminates brightly and evenly. Test multiple times to ensure reliable operation. If light does not function, recheck connector engagement and verify replacement part compatibility.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper cargo trim panel
    Disconnect battery again before final assembly. Position the upper cargo trim panel back into place, aligning all clip locations. Press firmly around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips, listening for each clip to snap into place. Verify the panel is flush and secure with no gaps or loose areas.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim clips are fully engaged and trim panels sit flush with no gaps or rattles
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the cargo area behind trim panels
3. Reconnect battery negative terminal and torque to specification (6.0 Nm)
4. Close rear hatch and verify proper operation and alignment after reassembly

Verification

• With vehicle in a safe location, have an assistant observe the rear of the vehicle while you press the brake pedal. Verify the third brake light illuminates brightly and consistently
• Test brake lights at least 10 times in succession to ensure reliable operation under repeated use
• Check for proper operation in both daylight and nighttime conditions if possible
• Verify no warning lights or brake system faults appear on the instrument cluster
• Inspect all reinstalled trim panels for proper fit, alignment, and secure attachment
• Perform a short test drive and verify brake light operation remains consistent
• If vehicle is equipped with electronic brake force distribution or advanced safety systems, verify no system faults are present after replacement

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