The Ultimate Guide to Changing Your 2017 Subaru Forester Tail Light: Expert Advice and Tips

Are you facing a frustratingly dim taillight or a completely broken one on your 2017 Subaru Forester? Don’t worry, you don’t need to take your car to a mechanic for this simple repair. With the right tools and a little patience, you can replace your taillight yourself and save a significant amount of money. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and successful replacement.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. This will make the process much easier and less stressful. You’ll need:

• New tail light assembly: Ensure you purchase the correct replacement tail light assembly for your specific 2017 Subaru Forester model. You can find these at your local auto parts store or online.
• Phillips head screwdriver: This is the most common type of screwdriver you’ll need for this task.
• Torx screwdriver: You may need a Torx screwdriver, depending on the type of screws used on your Forester.
• Socket wrench set: A socket wrench set can be helpful for removing certain screws.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime while working on your car.

Prepare Your Vehicle

The first step is to properly prepare your vehicle for the repair. This involves ensuring a safe and comfortable working environment:

• Park your vehicle on a level surface: This will prevent the vehicle from rolling while you’re working underneath it.
• Engage the parking brake: This will help keep the vehicle stationary.
• Turn off the engine and remove the key: This will prevent any electrical hazards.
• Open the rear hatch or tailgate: This will provide you with access to the tail light assembly.

Remove the Old Tail Light Assembly

Now that your vehicle is prepared, you can begin removing the old tail light assembly. This is a straightforward process:

• Locate the screws: The tail light assembly is typically held in place by a few screws. These screws are usually located on the inside of the tail light housing, either on the side or at the top.
• Remove the screws: Use your Phillips head screwdriver or Torx screwdriver to remove the screws holding the tail light assembly in place.
• Disconnect the electrical connector: Once the screws are removed, you’ll need to disconnect the electrical connector that connects the tail light to the vehicle’s wiring harness. This connector is usually located at the top or bottom of the tail light assembly.
• Gently pull the tail light assembly out: Once the electrical connector is disconnected, you should be able to gently pull the tail light assembly out of its housing.

Install the New Tail Light Assembly

With the old tail light assembly removed, you can now install the new one. This process is simply the reverse of the removal process:

• Align the new tail light assembly: Carefully align the new tail light assembly with the housing.
• Connect the electrical connector: Connect the electrical connector to the new tail light assembly. Make sure it clicks securely into place.
• Secure the new tail light assembly: Secure the new tail light assembly with the screws you removed earlier. Tighten them securely, but avoid overtightening.

Test the New Tail Light

After installing the new tail light assembly, it’s crucial to test it to ensure it’s working properly. This is a simple process:

• Turn on your car’s headlights: This will illuminate the taillights.
• Check for proper operation: Make sure all the lights on the new tail light assembly are functioning as they should. This includes the brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights.

Final Touches

You’ve successfully replaced your 2017 Subaru Forester’s tail light! Now, take a moment to clean up any tools or debris left behind. Double-check your work to ensure all screws are securely fastened and the electrical connector is securely connected.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues during the replacement process, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Check the electrical connector: Make sure the electrical connector is securely connected to both the new tail light assembly and the vehicle’s wiring harness.
• Check the fuses: If the tail light isn’t working, check the fuses related to the taillights.
• Check the wiring: If the fuses are fine, check the wiring for any damage or loose connections.

Enjoy Your New Tail Light

Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your 2017 Subaru Forester‘s tail light, saving yourself time and money. Now you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car’s lighting system is functioning properly.

Questions You May Have

Q: What if my 2017 Subaru Forester has LED taillights?

A: The process for replacing LED taillights is generally the same as for traditional incandescent bulbs. However, it’s important to note that some LED taillights are integrated into the tail light assembly. If this is the case, you will need to replace the entire assembly, as individual LED bulbs cannot be replaced.

Q: How often should I replace my tail lights?

A: There’s no set timeframe for replacing taillights. However, if you notice any damage, cracks, or dimming, it’s best to replace them as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to inspect your taillights regularly for any signs of wear and tear.

Q: Can I use a different type of bulb in my tail light assembly?

A: It’s generally not recommended to use a different type of bulb than what’s specified for your 2017 Subaru Forester. Using the wrong type of bulb can cause problems with the lighting system, such as incorrect brightness or even damage to the wiring.

Q: What if I’m not comfortable replacing the tail light myself?

A: If you’re not comfortable replacing the tail light yourself, you can always take your car to a mechanic. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to complete the repair quickly and efficiently.

Q: Do I need any special tools to replace my tail light?

A: The tools required for this repair are relatively basic and can be found at most auto parts stores. You’ll primarily need a Phillips head screwdriver, a Torx screwdriver, and possibly a socket wrench set. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for specific tool recommendations for your 2017 Subaru Forester.