Trunk Light Bulb Replacement Cost Guide
Standard Halogen Trunk Light Bulb
Labor Time: 15-30 minutes
Labor Cost: $31.25 - $62.50
Parts Cost: $5 - $15
Total Estimated Cost: $36.25 - $77.50
LED Trunk Light Assembly
Labor Time: 30-45 minutes
Labor Cost: $62.50 - $93.75
Parts Cost: $25 - $75
Total Estimated Cost: $87.50 - $168.75
OEM Integrated Trunk Light Module
Labor Time: 45-60 minutes
Labor Cost: $93.75 - $125
Parts Cost: $100 - $250
Total Estimated Cost: $193.75 - $375
*Note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional costs may apply if wiring repairs are needed. All estimates based on our standard rate of $125/hour.
Trunk Light Bulb Replacement Procedures
Basic Trunk Bulb
Tools needed:Flathead screwdriver, replacement bulb
Typical steps:
- Open the trunk completely
- Locate the trunk light assembly (usually on the trunk lid or inside trunk compartment)
- Gently pry off the plastic lens cover using a flathead screwdriver
- Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out or twisting counterclockwise
- Insert new bulb of the same type and wattage
- Test the light before replacing the lens cover
- Snap the lens cover back into place
Time estimate:10-15 minutes
LED Trunk Light Module
Tools needed:Socket set, trim removal tools, replacement LED module
Typical steps:
- Open the trunk completely
- Remove any trim pieces covering the light assembly
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery
- Unplug the electrical connector from the LED module
- Remove mounting screws or clips holding the module in place
- Install new LED module
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reconnect battery
- Test operation
- Reinstall trim pieces
Time estimate:30-45 minutes
Integrated Trunk Light Strip
Tools needed:Trim removal tools, socket set, wire strippers, electrical tape, replacement light strip
Typical steps:
- Open trunk and remove all relevant trim pieces
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Locate and unplug main power connector
- Remove any mounting clips or adhesive holding the strip in place
- Clean surface thoroughly if new strip uses adhesive
- Install new light strip following manufacturer guidelines
- Connect wiring harness
- Reconnect battery
- Test operation
- Secure all trim pieces
Time estimate:1-2 hours
Important Note:These are general guidelines. Specific procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Professional installation is recommended for LED modules and integrated light strips to ensure proper function and prevent electrical issues.
Understanding Trunk Light Bulbs
LED Trunk Light Bulb
An LED trunk light bulb is a modern lighting solution that uses Light Emitting Diodes to illuminate your vehicle's trunk space. These bulbs provide bright, energy-efficient lighting while consuming minimal power from your car's electrical system. LED trunk lights typically last much longer than traditional bulbs and produce a clean, white light that makes it easier to see items in your trunk during nighttime.
Halogen Trunk Light Bulb
A halogen trunk light bulb is a traditional lighting option that uses halogen gas and a tungsten filament to produce light. These bulbs offer reliable illumination at an affordable price point. While they consume more energy than LEDs and have a shorter lifespan, halogen bulbs provide warm, familiar lighting that many drivers are accustomed to.
Incandescent Trunk Light Bulb
An incandescent trunk light bulb is the most basic and conventional type of automotive lighting. It works by heating a metal filament until it glows, producing a warm, yellowish light. While these bulbs are the most economical option upfront, they have the shortest lifespan and are less energy-efficient compared to LED or halogen alternatives.
Xenon Trunk Light Bulb
A xenon trunk light bulb (also known as an HID bulb) uses xenon gas to produce a bright, white light that's similar to daylight. These bulbs offer excellent visibility and have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs. While less common in trunk applications, they provide superior brightness and good energy efficiency when compared to halogen and incandescent options.
All trunk light bulbs serve the essential purpose of illuminating your vehicle's cargo area, making it easier to locate and organize items in your trunk, especially during nighttime or in low-light conditions.
Common Failure Symptoms of Trunk Light Bulbs
Trunk Light Bulb: Signs of Failure and Service Information
LED Trunk Light
Signs of Failure:
- Complete failure to illuminate when trunk is opened
- Flickering or inconsistent lighting
- Dimmer than usual output
- Some LEDs in the cluster not working
Service Schedule:
LED trunk lights typically last 15-20 years or 30,000-50,000 hours. No regular replacement schedule is necessary; replace only upon failure.
Incandescent Trunk Light
Signs of Failure:
- Bulb appears darkened or black inside
- No illumination when trunk opens
- Intermittent operation
- Filament appears broken when inspected
Service Schedule:
Incandescent trunk lights typically last 2-3 years or 1,000-2,000 hours. Consider preventive replacement every 3 years to avoid unexpected failure.
Halogen Trunk Light
Signs of Failure:
- Yellow or purple tint to the light
- Reduced brightness
- Complete failure to illuminate
- Cracked or damaged bulb housing
Service Schedule:
Halogen trunk lights typically last 3-5 years or 2,000-4,000 hours. Recommended replacement every 4 years for optimal performance.
Note: Actual lifespan may vary depending on usage frequency and environmental conditions. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
