How to Change Tail Light Bulbs on a 2014-2020 RAM 1500

Your 2014-2020 RAM 1500’s tail lights help let other drivers know that you are in front of them, while some tail lights also work as brake lights and turn signals to keep other drivers aware of when your truck slowing down, stopping, or turning . Replacing failing tail light bulbs on your 2014-2020 RAM 1500 is an easy repair that can help ensure you’re complying with state road laws and driving safely. It’s recommended that both of your RAM 1500’s tail light bulbs be replaced at the same time, since the bulbs have been used for the same amount of time and they are likely to fail around the same time. Malfunctioning tail light bulbs can create issues with other drivers seeing your RAM 1500 on the road, and could put you and others in danger. Our detailed step-by-step instructions will help you perform tail light bulb replacement on your RAM 1500 to help you stay safe on the road and avoid a traffic ticket.


Tools & Materials List

Step by Step Instructions

Additional Resources

RAM 1500 Tail Light Replacement Tools & Materials

safety glasses Safety Glasses
Protective Gloves Gloves
Sylvania Longlife Tail Light Bulbs Tail Light Bulbs
Philip Screwdriver Phillips-Head Screwdriver

2014-2020 RAM 1500 Tail Light Replacement Instructions

We’ll demonstrate how to change a tail light bulb on a 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn, and these steps will be similar for most 2014-2020 RAM trucks, but be sure to know the specifics for your truck before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing the job yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.
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1.1 Remove the two screws securing your taillight assembly

Step 1: Disconnect the RAM Tail Light Assembly

Lower your tailgate and remove the two screws facing toward your truck bed that secure the tail light assembly using a T-25 Torx bit screwdriver.
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1.2 Pull and disconnect the taillight assemby from the truck

Pull the tail light assembly straight back until you unsnap the two plastic snap-post retainers that are located nearest the outside of the truck bed.
Pull the assembly out far enough to disconnect the two sets of wire harness connectors, which are located in the two lightbulb sockets on the back of the assembly.
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2.1 Rotate the bulb and wire connector counter clockwise and remove it from the assembly

Step 2: Remove the Old RAM 1500 Tail Light Bulb

Disconnect the chassis wire connector from the light socket that is located at the bottom of the assembly.

Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise to unlock it.

Pull both the bulb and the socket from the unit’s opening.
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2.2 Remove the old taillight bulb from the socket

Remove the light bulb by pulling the base of it from the socket.
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3.1 Install the new taillight bulb into the socket

Step 3: Install the New RAM 1500 Tail Light Bulb

Line up the replacement bulb with the socket, then push the bulb into the socket to firmly secure it.
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3.2 Reinstall the socket and new bulb in the assembly

Align the socket and new bulb with the opening on the back or bottom of the unit. Insert this socket into the opening until it is in place.
Rotate the socket clockwise until it locks into place.

Do It Right: Perform the previous steps for the other bulb if you are replacing both in one assembly.
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4.1 Inspect the snap post retainers before reinstalling the taillight assembly

Step 4: Reinstall the RAM Tail Light Assembly

Before reinstalling the tail light assembly, inspect the two plastic snap-post retainers on the outer bedside panel to ensure they are in good condition. If not, you’ll need to replace them.
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4.2 Reinstall the taillight assembly

Align the two receptacles on the outer side of the assembly with the two snap post retainers. Push the tail light assembly forward until you feel it click into place over the snap-post retainers.
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4.3 Reinstall the upper and lower screws securing the taillight assembly

Install the upper screw that secures the tail light unit to the side of the tailgate using a T-25 bit or driver. Then, install the lower screw. Tighten both screws to 21 inch pounds or 1.75 foot pounds.
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It is recommended to replace tail light bulbs in pairs, so we recommend repeating these steps on the other side.
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Additional Resources

How To: Change the Oil on a Late Model RAM 1500

How To: Change the Oil on a Late Model RAM 1500
How to Install a Lightbar

How to Install an LED Lightbar
Vehicle Air Filter

How to Replace an Air Filter

These step-by-step instructions and video detail how to replace the tail light bulb in your 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, or 2020 RAM truck, including most RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 models. Replacing a faulty or failing tail light helps you abide by state road laws, and makes other drivers aware of your truck’s presence and intended direction. If you notice that your RAM 1500’s tail light bulbs are not working or only function sporadically, it is important to replace both bulbs as soon as possible to ensure you are safe on the road.

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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.