Turn Signal Bulb - Rear

This procedure covers the replacement of the rear turn signal bulb on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500 commercial van, requiring removal of the rear tail light assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear turn signal bulb × 1 — Use OEM specification - verify LED or incandescent type
• Tail light assembly gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification if damaged

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Turn off the vehicle and remove the key fob from the cabin
3. Allow any recently used lighting components to cool for at least 10 minutes
4. Open the rear cargo doors to access the tail light assembly from inside if needed
5. Verify the correct replacement bulb type for your specific EDV 500 configuration

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the tail light assembly
   Locate the affected rear tail light assembly on the exterior of the vehicle. From inside the cargo area, identify the interior trim panel that covers the tail light mounting area. This panel is typically located on the rear pillar.
2. 2

   Remove interior cargo trim panel
   Using the trim panel removal tool, carefully pry out the plastic retaining clips securing the interior cargo trim panel. Start from the bottom edge and work upward. There are typically 6-8 clips along the perimeter. Set the panel and clips aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Disconnect the tail light electrical connector
   Locate the tail light wiring harness connector behind the removed trim panel. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull firmly to disconnect the electrical connection. Note the connector orientation for reassembly.
4. 4

   Remove tail light assembly mounting fasteners
   Using the Torx T20 driver, remove the three Torx screws securing the tail light assembly to the vehicle body. These screws are typically arranged in a triangular pattern. Keep the screws organized for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Extract the tail light assembly
   Carefully pull the tail light assembly straight back from the exterior of the vehicle. The assembly may have alignment pins that require gentle wiggling to release. Be mindful of the weatherstripping gasket around the perimeter.
6. 6

   Access the bulb socket
   With the tail light assembly removed, identify the turn signal bulb socket on the back of the assembly. The turn signal is typically the amber-colored lens section. The socket will have a quarter-turn or push-tab release mechanism.
7. 7

   Remove the turn signal bulb
   Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pull it straight out from the housing. Remove the old bulb from the socket by either pulling it straight out (if wedge-base) or pressing in and rotating counterclockwise (if bayonet-base).
8. 8

   Install the new turn signal bulb
   Insert the new turn signal bulb into the socket, ensuring it is fully seated. If bayonet-base, press in and rotate clockwise until it locks. Verify the bulb is secure in the socket before proceeding.
9. 9

   Test the new bulb
   Before reinstalling the assembly, reconnect the electrical connector temporarily. Have an assistant activate the turn signal or use the hazard lights to verify the new bulb illuminates properly. Disconnect the connector again after verification.
10. 10

    Reinstall the tail light assembly
    Inspect the weatherstripping gasket for damage and replace if necessary. Align the tail light assembly with the mounting holes and alignment pins, then press it firmly into place. Ensure the gasket seats evenly around the perimeter to maintain weatherproof seal.
11. 11

    Secure the tail light assembly
    Install the three Torx screws and tighten them in a star pattern to ensure even pressure on the assembly. Tighten snugly but do not over-torque, as the mounting bosses are plastic and can crack.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical and reinstall trim
    Reconnect the tail light electrical connector, ensuring it clicks into place securely. Reposition the interior cargo trim panel and press firmly around all clip locations to secure it. Verify all clips are properly engaged.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panel clips are fully seated to prevent rattles during operation
2. Check that the tail light assembly sits flush with the body panel with no gaps
3. Verify the weatherstripping gasket is properly positioned to prevent water intrusion

Verification

• Turn on the vehicle and activate the turn signal on the repaired side to confirm proper operation
• Test the hazard light function to verify both rear turn signals work simultaneously
• Check that all other tail light functions (brake, running, reverse) still operate correctly
• Inspect the tail light assembly from the exterior for proper seating and alignment
• Ensure no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster indicating a lighting fault

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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