How To Replace License Plate Bulbs 2002-2006 Toyota Camry

Originally recorded June 16, 2020.

This video shows how to replace the license plate bulbs on a 2002-2006 Toyota Camry. Most cars are similar; really the major difference is getting the felt covering on the trunk lid off.

This Toyota uses "Philips Screw" style clips. Hold the outer ring, then stick a Philips Screwdriver in the center, and turn slightly, counterclockwise, then remove the push-pin.

The child safety release is a press-fit. It may be helpful to remove the cover of it first, there's a slot where a flat-blade screwdriver can fit and you can take the cover off. Then, come in behind the handle and pry, the handle will pop off.

The bulb sockets are easily removed by twisting slightly, then they should pull down. To remove the bulb, just grasp it and wiggle it to work it out of the socket; the bulbs are just a press fit.

I'm replacing mine here with LED bulbs, these happen to be non-polarity bulbs, so they can work either way. To install bulbs (whether plain old incandescents, or LEDs), they simply push into the socket. If you are replacing with polarity-sensitive LEDs, you have a 50-50 shot of getting it right first try. If they don't light up, just remove, turn them around 180° and plug back in.

Then after the bulbs are replaced, the sockets are reinstalled in the trunk lid. They go in at the same angle they came out, then are twisted to point to the left and right sides of the vehicle, respectively.

Last thing to do is simply reinstall the trunk lid felt covering. Use the center hole to hold the panel in place. The push-pins simply get pushed into the hole, then press the center button to lock them in place. Reinstall the child safety release handle, and make sure it snaps on, then reinstall its cover.