How to install tailights?

How to install tailights?

I have looked everywhere on this web site and I couldn't find any information on how to install the new Altezza taillights. I want to make sure I can do it before I buy them, because I might screw it up...Do some of you know how?

It's really easy, probably one of the easiest things you can do. This is how I did mine:

1) Open the trunk lid and unscrew the hook that holds one side of the cargo net.

2) Peel back the carpet, enough to gain access to the back of the light. Turn and pull out the lights, they're secured with a clip type fastener so you need to also remove that to completely free the lights from the shell.

3) There are 3 screws that hold the shell in place, there is also a foam rubber piece that keeps the inside moisture-free (you might have to take this off or manuveur around it for step 2). Just unscrew the 3 hex nuts off and the shell should come out!

4) Next to take out the reverse light, look up at the inside of the trunk lid. You'll see two plastic pieces on each side. You remove them by pressing in on one side and pulling it out... real easy.

5) You can then reach in and remove the light by turning it and pulling it out (just like the brake and turn signal lights).

6) This is where it gets kinda tricky... there is one (maybe 2) bolts that hold the shell in. They're pretty easy to remove (as long as you have fairly small hands. Don't lose the nut inside the trunk lid, they're a total pain to get out and if you don't, you can bet on hearing a nice little rattle for the rest of your driving days.

7) This is hands down the most difficult part of it all (but it's still not THAT difficult). There are two plastic fasteners that hold the shell in. I used a flathead screwdriver to get the one that's closest to the botton lip of the trunk lid out, so then I only had one clip to deal with. In retrospect, I think a set of needlenose pliers would be your best bet (or if anyone else has any suggestions) and unclip the other fastener... WHEN you succeed it will come right out!

Installing your new Altezzas are just the opposite of of removing your stock ones... easy as pie! Once you remove one side you'll be a pro at it and you'll be finished in no time! DO NOT FORGET THE FOAM RUBBER, or you're going to have to deal with foggy Alezzas which kinda defeats the purpose if you bought 'em for that shine!

With the way I do things, I'm pretty sure I may break off those plastic fasteners. They are probably the hardest things to take off and at the same time, keeping them intact so they can be put back on. I don't know why I have so much problems working on cars, but when it comes to building computers, I breeze by it. I'll have to take a closer look at the back of the trunk and use your step by step directions. Thank you for the detailed steps. It will definitely be handy...