Buy Toyota Highlander Tail Light Assembly

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Quick Overview

The tail light-also called the rear lamp, brake light, or rear combination light-sits at the back corners of every Toyota Highlander and tells drivers behind you when you are there, slowing, or turning. Modern Highlanders (2020-present) use sealed LED units that shine brighter and last longer than the replaceable 7443/7440 bulbs found in older models. U.S. law says each vehicle must have two red tail lamps mounted between 15 inches and 72 inches above the road, and they must never be amber. Keeping these lights clean and working is a quick way to stay safe and legal.

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Generations & Fit

• 2001-2007 (1st gen XU20): Separate lens and bulb; uses 7443/7440 dual-filament bulbs for tail/stop; simple two-nut removal.
• 2008-2013 (2nd gen XU40): Similar bulb style but larger housing. Fuse labeled "TAIL" controls power.
• 2014-2019 (3rd gen XU50): Updated shape; still serviceable bulbs; most guides list 7443 for outer tail and 194 for inner running lamp.
• 2020-present (4th gen XU70): Factory LEDs are standard across all grades, as confirmed in Toyota's launch release.

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Why It Matters

A working rear light lets others see the SUV at night, shows red when you brake, and flashes amber or red for turns-preventing rear-end crashes. Federal rules in 49 CFR 393.11 spell out color, brightness, and placement, and police can issue tickets if any lamp is dark. LED assemblies also use up to 80 % less power than old bulbs, saving on battery load.

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Bulb & LED Guide

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Common Failure Signs

• Cracks, moisture, or fog inside the lens.
• Dash warning or fast-blinking turn signal.
• Dim, flickering, or totally dark lamp.
• "TAIL" fuse blown (check 10 A mini-fuse in dash panel).

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Step-by-Step Replacement

1. Open the liftgate and remove the small trim cover beside the lamp.
2. Undo the two 10 mm nuts holding the assembly.
3. Pull the housing straight back-a firm tug releases hidden clips. A how-to video for 2014-2019 shows the motion clearly.
4. Twist out the bulb socket, swap the 7443 bulb, or unplug the LED harness on newer models.
5. Test before re-installing. On 2020-present SUVs the entire sealed LED unit unbolts in minutes as shown in a recent DIY clip.
6. Re-fit the nuts to 48 in-lb and snap the trim back.

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LED Upgrade Tips

Plug-in LED replacements give up to 80 % energy savings and can last 50,000 hours, but use a red LED for the tail/stop circuit so the color stays legal.
For 2020+ trims, the LED board is already optimized; upgrading means swapping the whole housing, not just a bulb, as owners note online.

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Safety & Recalls

Toyota issues service campaigns when lighting or wiring needs attention; you can check your VIN on the official Toyota Recall page or the NHTSA database.
Campaign 21TC03 is an example that notifies drivers about pending remedies.
Because LEDs rarely burn out, the most frequent safety fault is a cracked lens letting water reach the circuit.

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Maintenance Cheatsheet

• Wash the lens with mild soap, not harsh chemicals.
• Apply clear silicone to tiny cracks to keep moisture out.
• Use dielectric grease on socket pins (2001-2019 models).
• Check all rear lights during every oil change.
• Keep a spare 10 A fuse in the glove box.

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Upgrade Ideas

• Smoke-tint film for style (check local laws first).
• Sequential LED turn modules for 2008-2019 housings.
• Factory LED swap into 2014-2019 models requires adapter brackets but gives a modern look similar to the 2020 design.

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Q: What bulb fits a 2013 Highlander tail light?
A: A 7443 (or 7440) dual-filament bulb fits the outer tail/stop socket.

Q: Are 2020-2025 tail lights serviceable?
A: The LED board is sealed; if it fails you replace the whole lamp, usually a 10-minute job.

Q: Where is the tail-light fuse?
A: It's a 10 A "TAIL" fuse in the interior fuse panel left of the steering wheel.

Q: Can I use white LEDs in the tail light?
A: No. Federal rules require red rear lamps; white would be illegal.

Q: Do LEDs save battery power?
A: Yes-up to 80 % less draw than incandescent bulbs.

Q: How do I stop condensation?
A: Remove the lamp, dry it, and reseal the lens with clear epoxy or replace the housing if cracks are large.

Q: Will a cracked lens fail inspection?
A: In most states any crack that lets white light escape or water enter can cause a fail. Check your local DMV rules.

Q: Can tail lights be tinted?
A: Light smoke film is legal in many areas if brightness is not reduced, but some regions ban tint entirely.

Q: What tools do I need?
A: A trim pry tool, 10 mm socket, and Phillips screwdriver cover most jobs.

Q: Does Toyota cover LED failures?
A: While rare, an LED failure within the basic warranty is usually replaced free at the dealer.

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Helpful Links

• Toyota Recall Lookup
• NHTSA VIN Search
• U.S. Tail-Lamp Regulations
• 2020 Highlander Launch Press Release