High Mounted Stop Light Assembly: Removal

HINT:

When replacing the stop light, heat the body and stop light using a heat light.

Heating temperature 

1. DISCONNECT CABLE FROM NEGATIVE BATTERY TERMINAL 
   CAUTION: Wait at least 90 seconds after disconnecting the cable from the negative (-) battery terminal to prevent airbag and seat belt pretensioner activation.
2. REMOVE LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT DOOR ASSIST GRIP (See  DISASSEMBLY  ) 
3. REMOVE LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT DOOR COVER (See  DISASSEMBLY  ) 
4. REMOVE CENTER STOP LIGHT ASSEMBLY 
   1. Disconnect the connector.
   2. Remove the tape and 2 nuts.
      Fig 1: Identifying Center Stop Light Nuts

      Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
   3. Apply protective tape to the vehicle body around the center stop light.
   4. Using a heat light, heat the center stop light.
   5. Tie objects that can serve as handles (for example, wooden blocks) to both wire ends.
   6. Cut through the double-sided tape by pulling the piano wire as shown in the illustration.
      NOTE:

      • If reusing the center stop light, take care not to damage the center stop light.
      • Do not damage the body.
        Fig 2: Pulling Piano Wire

        Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
   7. Remove the center stop light.