Tonight I was trying to install the 99 spec rear tail lights.

I looked at the diagram in the owners manual and the diagram seemed fairly simple, removing two screws at the top and i should be able to remove the tail light housing. I followed the diagram, by removing the two top screws holding onto the assembly but the housing did not seem to budge at all. i tried tugging the housing out with considerable force (without trying to damage anything ) but it seemed like there was still something else thats attached keeping it in place.

- do i need to remove the center piece (third brake light) in order to remove the sides?
- are there other hidden bolts that need to be removed?
- is there some sort of method i should use to pull it out?

any help is appreciated!

 

I don't remember how many screws there are but are you pulling to the side? The light housings slides sideways towards the side of the car. You don't need to remove the center light at all.

edit: did you just take the covers off then the screws for the lights? I think thats how it goes. Wish my FD was here to help you out more.

 

There are 3 screws holding the interior trim piece over the tail light, only two of those hold the tail light in. Once those are out you need to SLIDE to the opposing direction. IE if your taking the driver side tail light out, slide it to the LEFT do NOT pull it out.

 

When i first removed mine i had to push with all my strength than when it came loose i almost fell over.

 

There is a reinforced ledge/web on the back of the lens housing, near the top and between the center and inboard bulb. Use a rubber mallet and gently tap outward on this ledge to remove the housing. That's what it's there for.

edit: I have an annotated pic but can't seem to attach it...

 

Slide it dude, this stuff isnt that hard.

 

slide it out...then slide it in to put it back...in n out.

 

I'm changing mines these week think for tips guys.