Turn Signal Bulb - Front

Replace the front turn signal bulb by accessing the headlight assembly from the engine bay or wheel well, removing the bulb socket, and installing a new bulb.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front turn signal bulb (PY21W/BAU15s amber) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
2. Open hood and secure with prop rod
3. Identify which side requires bulb replacement (driver or passenger)
4. Allow headlight assembly to cool if vehicle was recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Access headlight assembly
   Locate the headlight assembly access cover on the rear of the headlight unit in the engine bay. For better access on the driver side, you may need to move aside the air intake ducting or coolant reservoir. For the passenger side, move the washer fluid reservoir if necessary.
2. 2

   Remove protective cover
   Rotate the protective dust cover counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pull it away from the headlight assembly. Set aside in a clean location. The turn signal bulb socket is typically located in the lower or outer section of the headlight assembly.
3. 3

   Locate turn signal bulb socket
   Identify the turn signal bulb socket - it will have amber-colored wiring harness connector. The socket is separate from the main headlight bulbs and is typically positioned at the outer corner of the headlight assembly.
4. 4

   Remove bulb socket
   Grasp the turn signal bulb socket firmly and rotate it counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it releases from the headlight assembly. Pull the socket straight out with the bulb still attached. Do not pull on the wiring harness.
5. 5

   Remove failed bulb
   Press the bulb gently into the socket and rotate counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn to unlock the bayonet tabs. Pull the old bulb straight out from the socket. Inspect the socket for corrosion or damage; clean contacts if necessary with electrical contact cleaner.
6. 6

   Install new bulb
   Using a clean cloth or gloves, handle the new PY21W/BAU15s amber bulb without touching the glass. Align the offset bayonet pins on the bulb base with the socket slots. Insert the bulb and rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks into place. Gently tug to verify it is seated securely.
7. 7

   Reinstall bulb socket
   Insert the bulb socket back into the headlight assembly, aligning the tabs. Rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks into position. Ensure the socket is fully seated and secure.
8. 8

   Replace protective cover
   Position the protective dust cover over the rear of the headlight assembly, aligning the tabs. Rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn to lock it in place. Ensure the seal is properly seated to prevent moisture intrusion.

Reassembly

1. Reposition any moved components (air intake ducting, coolant reservoir, or washer fluid reservoir) to their original locations
2. Ensure all wiring harnesses are properly routed and not pinched
3. Close hood securely

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
• Activate turn signal on the replaced side and verify the new bulb illuminates amber
• Check turn signal flashing rate is normal (not rapid, which would indicate a fault)
• Verify hazard lights function properly with both front turn signals operating
• Walk around vehicle to confirm proper operation and no warning lights on instrument cluster

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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