Replacing the brake light bulbs on a 2020 Kia Forte is a manageable DIY task. In most trims, you access the rear light housing from the trunk, swap in the correct bulb, and reassemble. If your Forte is equipped with LED taillights, you may need to replace the entire tail-light assembly or seek dealer service, as individual LEDs aren’t typically replaceable.
What you’ll need
Gather these items before you start to ensure a smooth replacement.
- Replacement bulb(s) of the correct type for your Forte’s tail lights (check the existing bulb or owner’s manual for the exact specification, commonly a dual-filament type such as 3157 or 7443).
- Gloves or a microfiber cloth to avoid touching the bulb with bare skin.
- Trim removal tool or a small flathead screwdriver to release panels and fasteners.
- Phillips screwdriver (if your model uses screws to secure the taillight panel).
- Flashlight for better visibility inside the trunk.
- Soft towel or mat to protect the vehicle’s paint and trim.
With these items, you’ll be prepared to access the tail-light housing, swap bulbs, and reassemble without damage.
Step-by-step guide
Follow these steps in order to replace the brake light bulb safely and effectively.
- Open the trunk and locate the taillight housing behind the tail panel on the side you’re servicing.
- Remove the trunk liner or side panel to access the rear of the taillight. Use the trim tool to pry out plastic push pins or remove screws securing the panel; set fasteners aside in a safe place.
- Loosen and remove the screws/retainers that hold the taillight assembly in place if required. Gently pull the taillight housing away from the body just enough to reach the bulb socket at the back.
- Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise to unlock it from the housing, then pull straight out to expose the bulb.
- Remove the old bulb from the socket by pulling it straight out. If you’re handling a dual-filament bulb, note which filament is used for brake and which for tail light. Insert the new bulb into the socket firmly.
- Reinsert the bulb socket into the taillight housing and twist clockwise to lock it in place. Reassemble the taillight by aligning it with the body and tightening any screws/retainers you removed.
- Reconnect the taillight assembly, reinstall the trunk liner or side panel, and secure all fasteners. Test the brake light by pressing the brake pedal while someone watches from outside the car or by using the vehicle’s running lights to verify function.
If everything lights up correctly, you’ve completed the replacement. If the brake light still doesn’t work, double-check the bulb orientation, wiring connection, and fuse for the tail/brake lights.
LED vs incandescent: what to know
Note that some 2020 Kia Forte trims use LED tail-light modules. LEDs are generally not replaceable as individual bulbs; in those cases you would replace the entire tail-light assembly if a diode fails. If your car has incandescent bulbs, the steps above will apply. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Kia dealer to confirm whether your tail lights are LED or incandescent.
Summary
In summary, changing the brake lights on a 2020 Kia Forte typically involves removing the trunk liner to access the taillight housing, replacing the correct bulb, and reassembling. Always verify bulb type before purchase, avoid touching the bulb glass with bare skin, and test the lights after reassembly. If you have LED taillights, you may need professional service for replacement.