Once removed, the bulbs are accessible for changing. Replace by following the steps in opposite order.
A few days ago a friend asked me to help change a burnt out tail light on her Versa hatchback. Sure, piece of cake, right? Well, Nissan had other plans, and made it a little tricky. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting into your rear lamp console.
These are the tools needed to pull the tail light cluster – 10mm deep socket (with extension), ratchet, 10mm (or adjustable) wrench, flathead screwdriver, nylon strapping, and magnets
Using the screwdriver, remove these two covers. Use a cloth underneath to keep from scuffing the plastic.
Each cover will reveal a screw/nut combo that needs to be undone. One in each area. The upper access point needs to be loosened with a 10mm wrench. Use the magnets to help keep the nut from falling into the gap between the body and plastic shroud.
The lower access area’s nut can be removed with a socket and extension. Again, careful to not drop the nut when undoing it.
From the upper area.
From the lower access area.
After you’ve removed the two nuts, you can start to pull the cluster outwards. Most likely, you’ll need two follow the next step as well to disengage it completely.
Aside from the two screws, the lighting cluster has a snap and bracket that hold it in place. To slide it free, slip a nylon strap behind it and pull backwards (while using the other hand to pull the opposite side backwards)
This is the bracket and post that you’ll slide the cluster free from.
Once removed, the bulbs are accessible for changing. Replace by following the steps in opposite order.
Hi, I'm Mike. I’m the executive editor of Make: magazine, and host of Discovery channel’s Punkin' Chunkin' and Catch It Keep It, TV shows where I build and explain crazy machines that crush stuff, blow things up, shoot fire, all in the name of science.
I've previously worked at Wired and ReadyMade magazines, writing about how to utilize new technology in our everyday lives.
This site is where I keep a list of instructions for fun projects I've done, am working on, or draw inspiration from. I encourage everyone to get involved — get up and do something!
