Replacing a blown brake light on a 2013 Honda Fit is a manageable DIY task. In most cases you’ll access the taillight housing from inside the cargo area, swap in a like-for-like bulb, and reassemble. The exact bulb type can vary by market and trim, so check the old bulb or the owner’s manual to confirm the correct replacement. The job typically takes about 15–20 minutes.
What you’ll need
Before you start, assemble the tools and parts you’ll rely on. The exact bulb number depends on your vehicle’s trim and region, but you’ll be replacing a dual-filament brake/taillight bulb in the rear assembly.
- Replacement brake light bulb of the correct type (check the old bulb for the part number or consult the owner’s manual). Common options on Honda models from this era include dual-filament bulbs such as 3157 or 7443, but verify your vehicle’s specific bulb.
- Clean gloves or a lint-free cloth to handle the bulb (oil from skin can shorten bulb life).
- Plastic trim tool or small flathead screwdriver to release interior trim clips safely.
- Flashlight (optional) to illuminate the taillight housing.
With the right bulb and tools in hand, you’re ready to access the taillight and perform the swap without needing to remove the bumper.
Step-by-step replacement
The following steps apply to the taillight bulbs. If your 2013 Fit uses an LED center high-mount stop lamp (CHMSL), that component cannot be replaced with a standard bulb and requires a different service approach.
- Park on a level surface, turn off the engine, and remove the keys. Open the hatch and locate the interior cargo panels that cover the taillight housings.
- Carefully detach the interior trim panel or carpeted cover to expose the taillight assembly. Use a plastic trim tool to avoid damaging clips or surfaces.
- Find the brake/taillight bulb socket on the back of the taillight. Turn the socket counterclockwise about a quarter to a half turn until it releases, then pull straight out.
- Remove the old bulb from the socket by gently pulling it straight out. If there’s a retaining clip, unhook it before removing the bulb.
- Insert the new bulb into the socket, ensuring the pins align correctly. Avoid touching the glass with bare fingers—oil from skin can shorten bulb life; wear gloves or use a cloth.
- Reconnect the socket to the taillight housing and twist clockwise to lock it in place. Reinstall the interior trim panel and ensure all clips snap securely.
- Test the brake light before finishing: have someone press the brake pedal while you observe the bulb illuminate. If it doesn’t light, recheck bulb seating, socket installation, and related wiring or fuses.
After the replacement, reassemble any trim pieces and remove tools. If you notice repeated bulb failures, investigate the taillight fuse and wiring for signs of wear or corrosion.
Additional tips
Regularly inspect all rear lights to ensure proper function. If you’re replacing both brake lights, doing them together can save time. Remember that some models or markets use an LED CHMSL that cannot be replaced with a bulb—this requires service by a professional or replacement of the entire CHMSL assembly if it fails.
What to do if the light still won’t work
If the new bulb still doesn’t illuminate, verify you chose the correct bulb type, reseat the socket, and inspect the fuse for the taillight circuit. Check for wiring damage or corrosion and consider consulting a professional if the issue persists.
Summary: Replacing a brake light on a 2013 Honda Fit is usually a straightforward job that you can complete with basic tools. Confirm the exact bulb type for your vehicle’s trim, handle the bulb carefully, and test the light before driving. If the center CHMSL is LED, replace through a professional service approach.