This procedure covers removal and replacement of the third brake light (high-mount stop lamp) assembly on a 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla sedan, including interior trim removal and electrical connector service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly (high-mount stop lamp) × 1 — Toyota 81570-02080 or aftermarket equivalent
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key from vehicle
3. Allow interior surfaces to cool if vehicle has been in direct sunlight
4. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning work
5. Clean the rear deck area to prevent dirt from entering the vehicle interior

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the third brake light from interior
   Open the trunk and locate the third brake light assembly mounting area. The light is accessible from inside the trunk at the rear deck trim panel, between the rear window and trunk opening. Clear any cargo or items blocking access to the rear deck area.
2. 2

   Remove rear deck trim panel
   Locate the trunk-side rear deck trim panel that covers the third brake light mounting area. This panel is typically held by plastic clips and may have one or two screws. If screws are present, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove them. Gently pry the trim panel away from the mounting surface using a trim tool or flathead screwdriver wrapped in a cloth to avoid scratching. Work carefully around all clip locations, pulling the panel toward you to release the clips.
   ⚠Plastic trim clips become brittle over time. Work slowly and gently to avoid breaking clips. Have replacement clips available before starting.
3. 3

   Locate third brake light mounting nuts
   With the trim panel removed, you will see the back of the third brake light assembly. Identify the two mounting nuts (typically 10mm) that secure the light assembly to the body. Also locate the electrical connector attached to the light assembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the back of the third brake light assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and gently pull the connector straight off the light assembly terminals. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If the connector is stiff, gently wiggle it while pulling to release it.
   ⚠Never pull on wires to disconnect a connector. Always grip the connector body itself and use the release tab. Pulling wires can damage the harness or terminals.
5. 5

   Remove mounting nuts
   Using a 10mm socket or wrench, remove the two mounting nuts that secure the third brake light assembly to the vehicle body. Support the light assembly from the exterior side with your other hand to prevent it from falling once the nuts are removed. Keep the nuts and any washers in a safe location for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove third brake light assembly
   With the mounting nuts removed and electrical connector disconnected, carefully pull the light assembly away from the exterior of the vehicle (toward the trunk interior). The assembly should come free with the mounting studs passing through the body holes. Inspect the rubber gasket or seal on the assembly for damage or deterioration.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare new assembly
   Compare the new third brake light assembly to the old one to verify correct fitment. Check that the rubber gasket or seal is properly positioned on the new assembly. If the gasket came off the old assembly, clean it and transfer it to the new one if it is in good condition, or use the gasket provided with the new assembly. Ensure the mounting studs are clean and free of debris.
8. 8

   Install new third brake light assembly
   From inside the trunk, guide the new third brake light assembly into position by inserting the mounting studs through the body mounting holes. Ensure the gasket is properly seated against the body to prevent water leaks. Press the assembly firmly against the body from the trunk side to seat it properly. The assembly should sit flush against the exterior body surface.
9. 9

   Secure mounting nuts
   Thread the mounting nuts onto the studs by hand first to ensure proper threading. Tighten the nuts in an alternating pattern (if two nuts) to evenly seat the assembly. Tighten to a snug fit—these are typically plastic-threaded components that do not require high torque. Over-tightening can crack the light housing. Final tightness should be approximately 2-3 Nm (18-26 lb-in) or hand-tight plus 1/4 turn.
   ⚠Do not overtighten the mounting nuts. The third brake light housing is plastic and can crack if excessive force is applied. Tighten only until snug and the assembly is secure.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the third brake light assembly. Align the connector properly and push it straight onto the terminals until you hear or feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked in place.
11. 11

    Test third brake light operation
    Before reinstalling trim panels, test the new third brake light. Turn the ignition to the 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, or use a mirror/reflective surface. Verify the light illuminates brightly and consistently when the brake pedal is pressed and turns off when released. If the light does not function, recheck the electrical connector and verify it is fully seated.
    ⚠️Do not proceed with reassembly if the third brake light does not illuminate properly. A non-functional brake light creates a serious safety hazard and may be illegal to operate on public roads.
12. 12

    Reinstall rear deck trim panel
    Position the rear deck trim panel back into place. Align all mounting holes and clip locations. Press firmly on each clip location until you hear or feel the clips snap into place. If screws were removed, reinstall them and tighten with a Phillips screwdriver. Ensure the trim panel is fully seated and secure with no gaps or loose areas.

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are properly secured and all clips are fully engaged
2. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the trunk area
3. Clean any fingerprints or marks from the exterior third brake light lens

Verification

• With ignition ON, press the brake pedal and verify the third brake light illuminates brightly
• Verify the light turns off completely when the brake pedal is released
• Check that all other brake lights (left and right rear brake lights) also function correctly
• Inspect the exterior of the third brake light assembly to ensure it is flush-mounted with no gaps and the gasket is properly sealed
• Verify no water leaks are present around the assembly after the next car wash or rain
• Test the brake lights with the vehicle running and with the vehicle off (ignition ON) to ensure consistent operation
• Have another person verify all brake light functions are working before driving the vehicle on public roads

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