How to Replace the Reverse Backup Light on a 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4

If the reverse or backup light is out on your fourth-generation Toyota RAV4, the repair is much easier than it may look from the outside. On the 2013-2018 RAV4, the bulb can be reached from underneath the rear of the vehicle, so you do not need to remove the bumper.

The vehicle shown here is a 2018 Toyota RAV4, but the same basic process applies to 2013-2018 models.

Watch the Video #

Quick Summary #

To replace the reverse backup light bulb, slide underneath the rear of the RAV4, reach the bulb socket behind the light housing, turn the socket counterclockwise about a quarter turn, swap the bulb, reinstall the socket, and test the light.

This is a quick DIY repair that only takes a few minutes and does not require special tools.

Bulb and Materials Used #

• 12V 16W Toshiba bulb
• Piece of cardboard, optional, to make it more comfortable to lie under the rear of the vehicle

Access the Reverse Light from Underneath #

Start at the rear of the vehicle and look underneath the bumper area. The reverse light housing is accessible from below, which is the best part of this repair: no bumper removal, no trim removal, and no disassembly from inside the cargo area.

If you are working on a driveway or road surface, place a piece of cardboard on the ground to make it more comfortable, then slide underneath the rear of the car.

Remove the Socket #

Look for the wiring cable and connector attached to the back of the reverse light housing. The socket is reached by hand from underneath the bumper.

Grab the bulb socket and turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn. Once it unlocks, pull the socket out of the housing.

Replace the Bulb and Reinstall the Socket #

With the socket removed, pull out the old bulb and install the replacement. In this repair, the bulb used was a 12V 16W Toshiba bulb.

After the new bulb is in place, insert the socket back into the reverse light housing and turn it clockwise until it locks.

Test the Backup Light #

Once the socket is locked back into the housing, test the reverse light before calling the job done. I used my phone to record the rear of the car while I went inside and shifted into reverse, then checked the recording to confirm the backup light was working properly.

That is the whole repair. The bulb is easy to access from underneath the RAV4, the socket only needs a quarter turn to remove, and the installation is complete once the new bulb is locked back into the housing.

FAQ #

Do I need to remove the bumper? #

No. On the 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4, the reverse backup light bulb can be accessed from underneath the rear of the vehicle.

Do I need special tools? #

No special tools are required for the bulb replacement shown here.

What bulb was used? #

The bulb used in the video was a 12V 16W Toshiba bulb.