How to replace a taillight bulb on a Kia Rio

We show you how to replace the taillight bulbs on a Kia Rio

Lawrence Minnie

7 Jun 2021 · 10:02Car Ownership

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Lighting up Rio

The latest generation Rio was released in December 2020 in South Africa and featured a number of updates. The taillights have remained unchanged though, still making use of standard bayonet style bulbs. These bulbs do have a finite lifespan and will need to be changed from time to time when they fuse.

When this happens the replacement is relatively easy and can be done in about 15 minutes for both sides with minmal tools required.

You will need:

Replacement bayonet style bulbs of the correct size and wattage
No.3 Phillips screwdriver

Let's get it done

1. Open the rear hatch

2. Locate the taillight housing retaining screws

3. Use the screwdriver to remove all the screws

4.Gently pull backwards to remove the housing.

5. Twist the bulb holder to remove

6. Replace bulb making sure to align the pins

7. Reassemble in reverse order

Images from Youtube and Google Images search

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more