Replace the third brake light (center high-mounted stop lamp) located on the rear hatch of the 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4, restoring proper brake signal visibility to following traffic.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Third brake light assembly (center high-mounted stop lamp) × 1 — Use OEM specification or verify LED vs incandescent type

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Open rear hatch fully and prop it in the open position if necessary
4. Verify you have the correct replacement third brake light for your specific model year and trim level (LED or incandescent)
5. Clean the area around the third brake light to prevent dirt from entering the hatch during removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior trim panel
   From inside the rear cargo area, locate the interior trim panel on the upper rear hatch directly behind where the third brake light is mounted on the exterior. This is typically a plastic panel near the top edge of the hatch interior.
2. 2

   Remove interior trim panel fasteners
   Using a trim removal tool or small flathead screwdriver, carefully pry out the plastic clips or push pins securing the interior trim panel. On most 2019-2024 RAV4 models, there are typically 2-4 clips along the top edge. Work gently to avoid breaking the clips. If present, remove any Phillips head screws securing the trim panel.
3. 3

   Remove interior trim panel
   Once all fasteners are released, carefully pull the interior trim panel away from the hatch to expose the back side of the third brake light assembly. You should now see the electrical connector and mounting hardware. Set the trim panel aside in a safe location.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the third brake light assembly. Press the release tab on the connector while pulling it straight away from the light assembly socket. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If the connector is tight, gently wiggle it while pulling to release it.
   ⚠Do not force the electrical connector. If it does not release easily, verify you are pressing the correct release tab. Forcing the connector can break the locking tab and cause connection problems.
5. 5

   Remove light assembly mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting nuts or bolts securing the third brake light assembly to the hatch from the inside. Most RAV4 models use two 10mm nuts. Remove these fasteners completely using a 10mm socket and ratchet. Keep the fasteners in a safe place for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove third brake light assembly
   From the exterior of the vehicle, carefully pull the third brake light assembly straight away from the hatch. It should come free once the mounting fasteners are removed. Be careful not to drop the assembly. Inspect the rubber gasket or seal around the light assembly for damage or deterioration.
7. 7

   Prepare new light assembly
   Remove the new third brake light assembly from its packaging. Verify it matches the removed assembly in size, shape, and connector type. If the gasket or seal came off the old assembly and is in good condition, transfer it to the new assembly. If damaged or if a new gasket is included, use the new gasket.
8. 8

   Install new light assembly
   Position the new third brake light assembly into the mounting location on the exterior of the rear hatch. Ensure the gasket is properly seated and the assembly sits flush against the hatch surface. Align the mounting studs with the holes in the hatch.
9. 9

   Secure mounting fasteners
   From inside the cargo area, thread the mounting nuts onto the studs and tighten by hand first. Then tighten the nuts evenly using a 10mm socket and ratchet. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten, as this can crack the light assembly housing. Apply approximately hand-tight plus 1/4 turn.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly into the socket on the back of the new third brake light assembly until you hear or feel it click into place. Gently tug on the connector (not the wires) to verify it is fully locked and secure.
11. 11

    Test brake light function
    Before reinstalling the trim panel, have an assistant press the brake pedal while you observe the third brake light from outside the vehicle, or position yourself where you can see the light reflection. Verify the light illuminates brightly and consistently. Test multiple times to ensure reliable operation.
    ⚠️DO NOT proceed with reassembly if the third brake light does not illuminate properly. A non-functioning third brake light is a serious safety hazard and may result in being rear-ended by following traffic.
12. 12

    Reinstall interior trim panel
    Position the interior trim panel back into place on the rear hatch interior. Align all clip locations and press firmly to seat the clips. If screws were removed, reinstall them and tighten snugly with a Phillips head screwdriver. Ensure the trim panel is fully seated and secure.

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panel clips are fully seated and the panel is secure with no gaps or loose areas
2. Ensure no tools or parts were left inside the hatch interior trim area
3. Close the rear hatch and verify it latches properly and that the third brake light assembly does not interfere with hatch operation

Verification

• With the vehicle running or ignition in the ON position, have an assistant press and release the brake pedal multiple times while you observe the third brake light from behind the vehicle
• Verify the third brake light illuminates immediately when the brake pedal is pressed and turns off when released
• Check that the light output is bright and consistent across the entire lens with no dark spots or flickering
• Confirm the light assembly sits flush against the hatch with no gaps that could allow water intrusion
• Test the brake lights again after driving the vehicle for the first time to ensure the electrical connection remains secure
• If the third brake light does not function properly after installation, immediately check the electrical connector for proper seating and verify the correct replacement part was used

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