The license plate light on a 2013 Camry is swapped by removing the license plate to access the bulb inside the light housing, then installing a like-for-like wedge-base bulb.
For most 2013 Camrys, the light sits behind the license plate on the trunk lid. Start by turning off the car and opening the trunk, remove the license plate to expose the light assembly, then replace the bulb with a compatible wedge-base bulb (commonly W5W/194 or 168). If your car uses an LED module instead of a standard bulb, you may need to replace the entire housing. Verify the bulb type before buying, and handle bulbs with care to avoid damage or oil contamination on the glass.
What you’ll need
- A replacement wedge-base bulb of the correct size (commonly W5W/194 or 168; check the existing bulb to confirm)
- A small flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool (optional, for prying the lens gently)
- Gloves or a clean cloth to handle the new bulb (to keep oils off the glass)
- A flashlight if lighting is dim
Having the right bulb size is critical; if in doubt, remove the old bulb and compare it to the replacement or take the old bulb to an auto parts store to confirm the size.
Step-by-step replacement
Follow these steps to replace the license plate light safely and effectively.
- Park the car on a flat surface, turn off the engine, and open the trunk. Ensure the trunk stays propped open if needed.
- Remove the license plate by unscrewing the two screws that hold the plate to the trunk lid. Set the plate aside along with the screws so they don’t get lost.
- Behind the plate, locate the license plate light housing. If the lens is part of a small frame, gently pry around the edge with a flat-head screwdriver or use your fingers to release the lens cover.
- Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise to release it from the housing, then pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.
- Handle the new bulb with a clean cloth or gloves. Insert the new wedge-base bulb into the socket, then reinsert the socket into the housing and twist clockwise to lock it in place.
- Reattach the lens or lens cover, then reinstall the license plate with its screws. Clean the plate area if needed and ensure the screws are snug but not overtightened.
- Test the light by closing the trunk, turning on the vehicle’s lights, and ensuring the license plate light illuminates. If you don’t see light, recheck the bulb seating or wiring and inspect the fuse if necessary.
- If your Camry uses an LED license plate light module instead of a traditional bulb, replace the entire module according to the owner’s manual or consult a professional.
When working with electrical components, take care to avoid touching the glass with bare skin and disconnect the battery if you’re performing more extensive electrical work.
Tips and troubleshooting
- If the light is dim or flickering, the bulb may be nearing the end of its life and should be replaced.
- Double-check that you’re using the correct bulb size for your trim; differences can occur between LE, SE, XLE, and other trims.
- Check the fuse if both license plate lights aren’t working; reference the owner’s manual for fuse location and rating.
- LED licenses plates sometimes share a common ground; if an LED unit fails, replacement may involve the entire module rather than a single bulb.
With the bulb replaced and the plate reattached, your Camry will once again meet legal lighting requirements and maintain a clean, well-lit appearance for the rear of the vehicle.
Summary
To replace the 2013 Toyota Camry’s license plate light, remove the license plate, access the light housing, replace the wedge-base bulb with a like-for-like size (commonly W5W/194 or 168), and reassemble. If your model uses an LED module instead of a bulb, replacement involves the module rather than a single bulb. Always verify the bulb type before purchasing, handle bulbs with care, and test the light after reinstallation.