How To Change the Tail Lights on a 2010-2016 Chevy Equinox

Your Chevy Equinox’s tail lights help other drivers see that you are in front of them, and some tail light bulbs also have a second filament that lets you illuminate your brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals at the appropriate times for proper visibility. It’s recommended that both tail light bulbs on your 2010 to 2016 Equinox be replaced together, even if only one bulb has failed, since the bulbs are likely the same age and are likely to fail or burn out around the same time with equal use. These instructions will help you perform a tail light bulb replacement on your 2010-2016 Chevrolet Equinox to keep you and your car safe on the road.

Tools & Materials

Safety Eye Glasses Safety Glasses
Protective Gloves Nitrile Gloves
Sylvania Longlife Tail Light Bulbs Tail Light Bulbs
Flathead Screwdriver Flathead Screwdriver
ratchet set with case Power Torque Ratchet and Socket
Trim Tool Performance Tool Trim Removal Tool

Step-by-Step Instructions to Change the Tail Lights on a 2010 to 2016 Chevy Equinox

Today, we’ll be changing the tail light on this Chevy Equinox. Procedures will be similar for a lot of Equinox models from 2010 to 2016, but be sure to know the specifics for your vehicle before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.
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Prepare your car

Step 1: Park Your Vehicle

Park on a level surface and open your back hatch.

Step 2: Remove Assembly Bolt Caps

Remove the two plastic caps covering the assembly bolt by your tail light.

Step 3: Removing Bolts

Remove the two bolts using the ratchet and 10mm socket wrench

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Charles is removing the tail light assembly from the rest of the Equinox

Step 4: Remove the Assembly

Pull the assembly straight back toward the rear of the vehicle to disengage it.

Do It Right: You can use a trim tool to gently wedge the assembly free if needed.

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Remove the Old Bulb

In both images, Charles unplugs the wiring harness from the tail light assembly.

Step 5: Unplug the Wiring Harness

Once the assembly comes, press the tab where the wiring harness connects to the back of the assembly to unplug it. Now you can set the assembly on a bench or in the back of the vehicle while you change the bulb.
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Charles removes the old bulb from the the socket.

Step 6: Remove the Old Bulb

Turn the bulb counterclockwise to slip the ears of the socket out of the assembly. Gently work the old bulb out of the socket.
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Replace the New Bulb

Charles is replacing the old tail light bulb with the new one and placing it into the socket.

Step 7: Replace with New Bulb

Press the new bulb firmly into socket.


Do It Right: Turn on your tail lights before putting everything back together to make sure it’s working.

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With the new bulb installed, Charles now reconnected the socket to the tail light assembly.

Step 8: Reconnect the Socket to the Assembly

Slip the ears of the socket into the back of the assembly and turn it clockwise to secure it
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Charles lists the entire tail light assembly and reconnects it to the rest of the vehicle.

Step 9: Replace Assembly

Lift the assembly back into place and snap the wiring harness back into the assembly’s plug. Line up the guide pins on the assembly and carefully push it back into place.

Do It Right: You should always replace tail lights in pairs, so repeat these steps on the other side.

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Two images of Charles rethreading the bolts that connect the tail light assembly to the vehicle and replacing the bolt covers.

Step 10: Replacing the Bolts

Rethread the two bolts you removed previously and use your ratchet and socket or a flathead screwdriver to tighten them. Snap the two plastic caps back into place and close the hatch.
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Additional Resources

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How to Change the Air Filter on a 2010 to 2016 Chevy Equinox
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Preparing Car for Winter
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How to Safely Jack Up Your Vehicle
Learn how to check, remove, and replace the air filter in your Chevy Equinox with these step-by-step instructions. This video demonstrates an air filter replacement on a 2014 Chevy Equinox LTZ, and the replacement procedures will be similar for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models. Replacing the air filter on your Chevrolet helps to better remove contaminants from the outside air before it enters the engine, and can improve your car’s engine performance and gas mileage. Your 2011 to 2018 Chevy Equinox’ owner’s manual should list an air filter replacement interval, but if you notice a dirty or clogged air filter or reduced fuel economy, you can replace the air filter as often as needed to ensure optimal performance.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.
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