I recently had to replace the trunk light in my '97 ES300.
If you just need the bulb, it's NOT replacement #194 that Walmart, Advanced Auto and others list.
You need a 12V, 3 Watt bulb that looks like a fuse. I finally had to buy mine from our local Lexus dealer.
Pop open the light cover with a screwdriver and carefully pull out the bulb.
Try this first because it's probably only the bulb that is bad.
To replace the tail light bulb on a 2000 Lexus ES300, first, open the trunk and locate the tail light assembly. Remove the access panel or cover to expose the bulb holder. Twist the bulb holder counterclockwise to remove it, then pull out the old bulb and replace it with a new one. Finally, reinsert the bulb holder, twist it clockwise to secure it, and replace the access panel.
To change brake light bulbs on a 1998 Lexus ES300, open the trunk lid. Locate the plastic rivet on the side of the trunk liner. Turn the rivet while pushing in with a screwdriver. Remove the rivet and the trunk liner can be pulled away to access the bulb. Push in and turn the bulb to remove. Insert the new bulb the same way. Replace the rivet in the trunk liner.
Follow the link below, labeled "How to replace a Lexus IS300 tail light"
The 3rd brake light can be replaced by removing the subwoofer cover by pushing down and towards the front of the car, other brake lights can be replaced by opening velcro covers on inside of trunk lid.
To replace the license plate bulb on a 1995 Lexus ES300, start by opening the trunk and locating the license plate light assembly. Carefully pry off the lens cover using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool. Remove the old bulb by twisting it counterclockwise and replace it with a new bulb, ensuring it's securely in place. Finally, snap the lens cover back on and test the light to ensure it’s working.
In the 1998 Lexus ES300, the trunk release fuse is located in the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver's side. To access it, remove the cover of the fuse box, and you will find the fuse layout diagram on the inside of the cover. Look for the fuse labeled "TRUNK" or "TRUNK RELEASE" to check its status or replace it if necessary. Always ensure the vehicle is off before checking or replacing fuses.
In the trunk
Along the rear of the inside of the trunk there are four small bolts which need to be removed. Once removed, you will be able to push out the outer plastic cover holdind the light bulbs and wiring. From there, you can easily remove and replace the bulbs.
The fuses are all mapped out on the inside of the fusebox cover
In a 1993 Lexus ES300, the spare tire is located in the trunk, under the floor mat. To access it, you need to lift the trunk floor panel, which also contains the jack and other tools. Make sure to check for any additional compartment or cover that may need to be removed to reach the spare tire.
To replace the brake light bulb in a 2002 Lexus SC430, first, open the trunk and remove the trunk liner or access panel to reach the rear light assembly. Next, twist the bulb socket counterclockwise to detach it from the assembly and remove the old bulb. Insert the new bulb into the socket, ensuring it's secure, then reattach the socket to the assembly by twisting it clockwise. Finally, replace the trunk liner or access panel to complete the process.
You can access the brake light bald through the trunk compartment. Remove the trunk liner from the tail light assembly. Push the brake light connector in and turn at the same time. The brake lightbulb will come out. Reverse the process to install the new brake light