This procedure covers removing and replacing the third brake light (center high mount stop lamp) assembly on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry sedan.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly (center high mount stop lamp) × 1 — Toyota OEM 81570-06090 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open trunk and remove any cargo that obstructs access to trunk liner near rear window

Procedure

1. 1

   Access trunk liner
   Locate the trunk liner panel directly below the rear window where the third brake light is mounted. You may need to fold down the rear seat or pull back the trunk liner to access the back side of the light assembly.
2. 2

   Locate mounting fasteners
   From inside the trunk, identify the two plastic wing nuts or mounting screws securing the third brake light assembly to the body. These are typically located on either side of the assembly behind the rear deck trim.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the third brake light assembly. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
4. 4

   Remove mounting fasteners
   Turn the two plastic wing nuts counterclockwise by hand, or remove the mounting screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Keep fasteners in a safe place for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove light assembly from exterior
   Exit the trunk and go to the rear exterior of the vehicle. Carefully pull the third brake light assembly away from the body. It may require gentle wiggling to release from any alignment pins or weatherstrip seal. Remove the old assembly.
6. 6

   Clean mounting surface
   Inspect the mounting surface on the rear deck for any dirt, debris, or damaged weatherstrip seal. Clean the area with a damp cloth and allow to dry. Check that any rubber gasket or seal on the new assembly is properly positioned.
7. 7

   Install new light assembly
   From the exterior, align the new third brake light assembly with the mounting holes and any alignment pins. Press firmly into place, ensuring the weatherstrip seal seats properly against the body to prevent water intrusion.
8. 8

   Secure mounting fasteners
   From inside the trunk, hand-thread the two plastic wing nuts clockwise onto the studs, or install and tighten the mounting screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Tighten fasteners evenly to avoid warping the assembly. Do not overtighten plastic fasteners.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the back of the new light assembly until you hear or feel it click into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently tugging on the connector body.
10. 10

    Test brake light function
    Have an assistant press the brake pedal while you observe the third brake light from outside the vehicle, or use the brake pedal and check via reflection in a window or garage door. Verify the light illuminates brightly and consistently. If light does not work, recheck electrical connector and verify bulbs/LEDs are properly seated.
    ⚠️Do not return vehicle to service if third brake light does not function. This creates a serious safety hazard and may result in rear-end collision.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall trunk liner or trim panels if removed during access
2. Return rear seats to normal position if folded down
3. Ensure no tools or parts are left in trunk area

Verification

• With ignition on, press brake pedal and verify third brake light illuminates
• Check that light assembly is flush with body and weatherstrip seal is properly seated
• Inspect from exterior to ensure no gaps where water could enter
• Verify mounting fasteners are secure and assembly does not rattle or move
• Test brake lights multiple times to ensure consistent operation before returning vehicle to service

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