Replacing the tail light bulb in your 2013 Hyundai Elantra is a straightforward process that you can complete at home with a few simple tools. This guide will walk you through the steps to replace the brake light, turn signal, or parking light bulbs in your Elantra's tail light assembly.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • 10mm socket or wrench
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Replacement bulb (2357 for brake/turn signal, 168 for parking light)
  • Gloves (to avoid touching the bulb with bare hands)

Accessing the Tail Light Assembly

1. Open the trunk of your Elantra.

2. Locate the access panel on the side of the trunk near the tail light.

3. Remove the access panel by gently prying it open.

4. Disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the tab and pulling it apart.

5. Use the 10mm socket to remove the three nuts holding the tail light assembly in place.

6. Carefully pull the tail light assembly away from the vehicle.

Replacing the Bulb

1. Identify the bulb you need to replace based on the socket color:

- Red/Orange socket: Brake light

- Light Grey socket: Turn signal

- White socket: Parking light

2. Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise about a quarter turn to remove it from the assembly.

3. For brake or turn signal bulbs, push down slightly on the bulb and turn counterclockwise to remove it from the socket.

4. For parking light bulbs, simply pull the bulb straight out of the socket.

5. Insert the new bulb into the socket, being careful not to touch the glass with your bare hands.

6. Reinsert the socket into the tail light assembly and twist clockwise to secure it.

Reinstalling the Tail Light Assembly

1. Carefully align the tail light assembly with the mounting holes on the vehicle.

2. Ensure the assembly is fully seated and the gasket is properly aligned.

3. Replace the three 10mm nuts and tighten them securely, but do not overtighten.

4. Reconnect the electrical connector.

5. Test the lights to ensure they are working properly before closing the access panel.

Tips for a Successful Replacement

  • Work in a well-lit area to avoid misplacing small parts.
  • Use a magnetic socket or place a cloth below the work area to catch any dropped nuts.
  • Always wear gloves when handling new bulbs to prevent oils from your skin from damaging them.
  • Double-check that all connections are secure before finalizing the installation.

By following these steps, you can easily replace the tail light bulbs on your 2013 Hyundai Elantra, saving time and money on a simple maintenance task.

FAQs About 2013 Hyundai Elantra Tail Light Bulb Replacement

    • How often should I replace my Elantra's tail light bulbs?
      Replace bulbs as soon as they burn out. It's a good practice to check all exterior lights monthly.
    • Can I replace just one bulb if it burns out?
      Yes, but it's recommended to replace bulbs in pairs to ensure even brightness.
    • What if my new bulb doesn't work after installation?
      Check the connections and ensure the bulb is properly seated. If issues persist, there may be an electrical problem requiring professional diagnosis.