Kia Forte 2009-2021 Brake Taillights

Description

Installation Steps

1. Preparation

• Gather the required tools: a Phillips - head screwdriver or a socket wrench, depending on the type of fasteners used in your vehicle.
• Obtain a new set of brake taillights that are compatible with your Kia Forte's make and model year.
• Park the vehicle in a safe and well - lit area. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine.

2. Access the Taillight Assembly

• Open the trunk of your Kia Forte. On the inside of the trunk, near the taillight area, there are usually access panels. Use a flat - head screwdriver to gently pry off these access panels if they are present.
• In some models, you may need to access the taillight from the outside by removing a small trim piece around the taillight.

3. Disconnect the Electrical Connector

• Locate the electrical connector attached to the back of the taillight assembly. There is often a locking tab or clip on the connector. Press or release this tab/clip and then gently pull the connector straight out from the taillight.

4. Remove the Old Taillight

• Identify the fasteners that hold the taillight assembly in place. These could be screws or bolts. Use the appropriate tool (Phillips - head screwdriver or socket wrench) to remove these fasteners.
• Once the fasteners are removed, carefully pull the old taillight assembly away from the vehicle. Be cautious not to scratch the body of the car.

5. Prepare the New Taillight

• Check the new taillight for any visible damage or defects.
• Make sure all the bulbs are properly seated in the new taillight assembly.

6. Install the New Taillight

• Align the new taillight with the mounting holes on the vehicle. Carefully slide the taillight into place.
• Re - insert and tighten the fasteners that hold the taillight assembly. Use the torque specified in your vehicle's service manual if available, or tighten them firmly but avoid over - tightening.
• Reconnect the electrical connector to the back of the new taillight. Push it in until you hear a click, indicating a secure connection.

7. Test the Taillight

• Turn on the vehicle's ignition. Apply the brakes to check if the brake lights are functioning correctly. Also, check the turn signals and the running lights to ensure all functions of the taillight are working as expected.
• If any of the lights do not work, double - check the electrical connection and make sure the bulbs are properly installed.

8. Re - install Access Panels

• If you removed any access panels from the trunk, carefully snap them back into place. If you removed a trim piece from the outside, re - attach it.