How to Replace a 2007 Nissan Sentra Stop Light

The stop light, also called the brake light, is a crucial part of your 2007 Nissan Sentra's lighting system. Along with the headlights, it might be the most important light. If your stop lights are out, drivers behind you might not be able to determine if you are stopping or slowing down, which could cause an accident. Install a new stop light if yours is out. The Nissan Sentra Factory Service Manual recommends using only the specific bulb listed.
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Flat-head screwdriver or pliers
Socket wrench
Gloves
Bulb 3057K
1

Pry up the center of the plastic-pin fastener from the inside trunk wall with a screwdriver or pull it out with a pair of pliers. This releases the fastener. Each side has one fastener.
2

Peel the trunk liner back to access the rear-combination lamp.
3

Pull the two clips away from the rear-combination lamp with your hand, then remove the two nuts with a pair of pliers or socket wrench.
4

Grip the exterior part of the rear-combination lamp. Carefully pull it away from the Sentra. Detach the electrical harness from the back part of the lamp. The rear-combination lamp has several bulbs; the bottom-center bulb is the stop light.
5

Rotate the stop-light socket to the left (when facing the back part of the lamp). Slide it out of the lamp.
6

Gently pull the old bulb from the socket. Push the new bulb into the socket. Wear gloves to avoid touching the glass.
7

Push the socket with the new bulb into place. Turn it to the right to secure it. Attach the harness to the rear-combination lamp. Place the rear-combination lamp back in its mount.
8

Tighten the nuts with a pair of pliers or socket wrench. Re-attach the clips. Push the trunk liner back into place and line up the plastic-pin fastener with the hole.
9

Firmly push in the center of the plastic-pin fastener with a screwdriver. This locks it into place and secures the trunk liner.