This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the third brake light (center high-mounted stop lamp) assembly on the 2018-2024 Toyota Camry sedan.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly (center high-mounted stop lamp) × 1 — Toyota OEM 81570-06100 or equivalent
• Trunk trim clips (if damaged during removal) × 2 — Toyota OEM 90467-07195

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Open trunk and prop trunk lid fully open for workspace access
4. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 90 seconds for system discharge
5. Allow brake light assembly to cool if vehicle was recently driven (bulbs may be hot)
6. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Access trunk interior trim panel
   From inside the trunk, locate the upper interior trim panel directly below the rear window. This panel covers the third brake light mounting area. Identify the trim clips or fasteners securing this panel.
2. 2

   Remove trunk trim panel fasteners
   Remove the plastic trim clips or push-pin fasteners securing the upper trunk trim panel. Typically there are 2-4 clips along the top edge. Use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry the center of each clip up, then remove the entire clip. Set clips aside in a safe location for reinstallation.
   ⚠Do not pry directly on the trim panel itself. Apply pressure only to the clip centers to avoid cracking the panel.
3. 3

   Pull down trunk trim panel
   Carefully pull the upper trunk trim panel downward to expose the back of the third brake light assembly. You may need to partially detach the panel rather than completely remove it. Ensure no hidden clips or wiring harnesses are still attached before pulling.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the third brake light assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and gently pull straight back to disconnect. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If the connector is difficult to access, note its orientation before removal.
5. 5

   Remove brake light mounting nuts or screws
   Locate the mounting hardware securing the third brake light assembly from the inside. Typically there are 2-3 nuts (10mm) or screws. Remove all mounting hardware and keep in a safe location. Support the light assembly from the outside if possible to prevent it from falling when the last fastener is removed.
   ⚠Have a helper support the light assembly from outside the vehicle, or be prepared to catch it as the final fastener is removed to prevent damage to the paint or assembly.
6. 6

   Remove old brake light assembly
   Carefully pull the third brake light assembly away from the vehicle exterior. There may be a rubber seal or gasket between the assembly and the body. Check the condition of this seal and note its position for reinstallation with the new assembly.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting area and transfer components
   Inspect the mounting area on the vehicle body for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean the mounting surface with a clean cloth. If the new brake light assembly does not include a gasket or seal, transfer the old gasket to the new assembly if it is in good condition. Inspect all mounting hardware and replace if corroded or damaged.
8. 8

   Position new brake light assembly
   Position the new third brake light assembly into the mounting location from the outside of the vehicle. Ensure the gasket or seal is properly positioned to prevent water leaks. Align the mounting studs or holes with the corresponding holes in the vehicle body. The assembly should sit flush against the body.
9. 9

   Install mounting hardware
   From inside the trunk, install the mounting nuts or screws finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all fasteners are started, tighten them evenly in a crisscross pattern to the specified torque or snugly by hand. Do not overtighten plastic-mounted assemblies as this can crack the housing.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the new third brake light assembly. Push firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
11. 11

    Reinstall trunk trim panel
    Position the upper trunk trim panel back into place. Ensure no wiring is pinched behind the panel. Reinstall all trim clips by pushing them firmly into their mounting holes until they click securely. Verify the panel is flush and properly seated along all edges.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and test operation
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten to specification. With the ignition on, have a helper press the brake pedal while you verify the third brake light illuminates properly. Check for full brightness and that all LED elements or bulb filaments are functioning.
    ⚠️DO NOT operate the vehicle until you have verified proper third brake light operation. A non-functioning brake light is a serious safety hazard.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trunk trim panels are securely fastened with no loose clips or gaps
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the trunk area
3. Check that the brake light assembly is properly sealed against the body with no visible gaps

Verification

• Turn the ignition to ON position (engine does not need to run)
• Have an assistant press the brake pedal while you observe the third brake light from outside the vehicle
• Verify the third brake light illuminates immediately when brakes are applied and is as bright as before the repair
• Check that the light turns off immediately when the brake pedal is released
• Test multiple times to ensure consistent operation
• Verify no error messages or warning lights appear on the instrument cluster
• Inspect the exterior mounting area for proper fit and seal - no gaps should be visible
• Close trunk and verify no interior rattles or loose trim panels
• Take a short test drive and have another vehicle follow to confirm brake light visibility during actual braking

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