I have a 2001 LS430 and the high brake light bulb inside the assembly that sits on the back package tray is burned out. Without a manual I am not sure whether this is changeable from the inside trunk side or from the top. I am thinking that the top assembly pops off but am not certain of how to do the procedure. Any suggestions from anyone that knows would be greatly appreciated. I am also trying to find a used set of repair manuals if anyone knows. Thanks

 

The bulb for the 3rd brake light is not interchangable with the one in the tail light bulb. The cover for the 3rd brake light is pop out. If you have a hook tool it will make the job a lot easier , but you can use a flat head screw driver insert it from under the plastic cover and pry it off.

 

Thanks for the quick response. I had a feeling that is the way it was but I didn't want to mess it up not knowing for sure. The auto parts stores are saying all the stop bulbs are the same part # so I will take it out before I buy one since you are saying it is different. Again thanks for the valuable info.

 

I took the cover off today. The cover has 2 finger tabs on the front and rear in opposite directions which slip under the deck opening. The tabs towards the glass are longer and the way to take it off is to put your thumbs on the rear and push forward and up to release the seat side tabs and then just pull back to release the tabs at the glass. The tabs are under the deck and if you try to pry it up with a screwdriver it will ruin the deck. Only tools needed are your hands.....very easy once you know how. Sylvania 7440 is the bulb to use. Advance auto says to use 7443 but that is a dual filament bulb and not for the high mount stop light.

 

Okay, I need to replace a tail light. At least that is what the manual says about the idiot light on the dash. I looked at my 1997 ES300 and the light that is out is apparently in the trunk deck. Nearest the middle of the car. I found what appears to be a 3 light group, but is is way to far to the left and must be the turn signal etc.

So the cover that comes off, are we talking the red plastic cover on the outside of the trunk? Like, with the trunk closed? I am sorry to be so dense, but I can't afford the $100 that Lexus charges for the bulb and installation. The lady is gonna have to do it herself. Pictures would be great, schematics would be helpful. Thanks,
L