Toyota estima. how do you open rear light cluster to change brake light bulb?

Answer 1

To change the bulbs in the clusters in the rear wing panels - Lift the rear tailgate, look near to the light cluster where the door seal is you will find two large Phillips type screws facing you. Undo the two screws and remove them.

Now bearing in mind the cluster may have been in place for several years, gently ease the unit backwards and forwards until there is some movement at the screw end. What you need to do now if you can is pull the cluster towards you, and out.

If like mine it may be very tight, so I placed a medium sized flat head screwdriver on thin piece of rag (to protect the bodywork) under the light cluster at the opposite end where the unit curves in with the bodywork and very gently whilst both rocking the cluster prise it towards you with the screwdriver.

It is actually easier to do than explain, so don't be put off by my description. Took me 10mins to do.

I have read articles saying you need to gain access from inside the rear wing etc. But I have a 1996 Estima Emina and did mine as I have explained above.