Replacing the license plate light on a Honda Accord is a quick do-it-yourself task that most owners can complete in about 10 minutes. You’ll access the rear light housing behind the license plate, swap in the correct bulb, and test the lights before finishing. This guide covers tools, step-by-step instructions, model-year variations, and safety tips.
What you’ll need
Prepare the basic tools and parts before starting so you can complete the swap without interruptions.
- Replacement bulb of the correct type (common options are W5W/194 or T10 wedge; verify by inspecting the existing bulb or owner's manual)
- Small screwdriver or trim removal tool
- Gloves or a clean microfiber cloth to handle bulbs
- Optional LED replacement kit if you plan an upgrade
- Small tray or magnet to hold screws or fasteners
Having the right bulb type and a couple of basic tools helps keep the job quick and risk-free. If you’re unsure about the bulb type, consult the owner’s manual or a parts retailer by providing your car’s year, trim, and the plate light location.
Step-by-step guide
Follow these steps to replace a license plate bulb. If your Accord has two plate lights, repeat the steps for the other side.
- Park the car on a flat, level surface and turn the ignition off. Engage the parking brake and remove the keys.
- Open the trunk or lift the tailgate to access the license plate area and locate the rear light housing for the plate.
- Remove the lens or cover of the license plate light. This is usually done by either unfastening small screws or gently prying the lens away from the housing with a trim tool or flat screwdriver.
- Disconnect the bulb socket by pulling it straight out or twisting it slightly depending on the design.
- Gently remove the old bulb from the socket. If it’s a wedge-style bulb, pull straight out; if it is a push-in style, pull evenly with steady pressure.
- Insert the new bulb into the socket, taking care not to touch the glass with bare fingers (oil from skin can shorten bulb life). If using LED, align polarity as required.
- Reconnect the bulb socket to the housing and reattach the lens or cover. If using screws, tighten them evenly to avoid cracking the lens.
- Test the new bulb by turning on the parking lights or headlights, then close the hatch and verify the plate lights illuminate evenly on both sides.
With the new bulb in place and the housing secured, you should see the license plate lights functioning normally. If one side doesn’t light, double-check the bulb seating and socket connection, and inspect the fuse if applicable.
Model-year variations
Recent Hondas Accords (roughly 2018 model year to present)
Some late-model Accords use sealed LED license plate modules rather than a replaceable bulb. In these cases, you may need to replace the entire light assembly, not just a bulb. The exact procedure can vary by trim, so consult the owner’s manual or a dealer part diagram for the correct part number.
Older Hondas Accords
Earlier generations commonly use replaceable T10/W5W-type bulbs in a removable lens housing. The replacement process is typically straightforward, using a small screwdriver or trim tool to release the cover and a simple bulb swap.
Troubleshooting and safety tips
If the light won’t come on after replacement, check the following:
- The bulb is seated correctly and the socket is fully connected
- You used the correct bulb type and the correct polarity for LED replacements
- The fuse for the license plate lights (if applicable) is intact
- There are no damaged wiring or corrosion in the socket
Safety reminder: avoid touching the glass of new bulbs with bare hands; use gloves or a clean cloth. Dispose of old bulbs properly according to local regulations.
If issues persist, consider consulting a professional mechanic or a Honda service center to check the wiring and the fuse panel for any related faults.
Summary
Changing the Honda Accord’s registration plate light is a quick, mostly straightforward job. By identifying the correct bulb type, gathering the right tools, and following the step-by-step process, you can restore proper illumination for your rear plate in just a few minutes. Always consult the manual for model-year specifics, and opt for the appropriate bulb or module replacement based on your car’s design.
Can I replace my license plate light myself?
It. Then you're able to pull out your old bulb. And install your new bulb. Then you can reinstall your light housing. By putting it over the lights.
What's the best oil to put in a Honda Accord?
Information
| Accord | 2003-2010 L4 & V6: 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) 2011-2020 L4 & V6: 0W-20 (UFS) 2005-2007 Hybrid: 5W-20 (S/UFS) 2014-2020 Hybrid or Plug-in: 0W-20 (UFS) |
|---|---|
| Fit | 2007-2010: 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) 2011-2017: 0W-20 (UFS) 2019: 0W-16 (UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) |
Is it easy to replace a number plate light?
Each cover is held on with two screws, so you'll need to unscrew these, and, keeping the screws handy, remove the covers. To remove the bulbs, simply pull gently. Try not to pull too hard, and if they don't come out straight away, be patient.
Can I get pulled over for not having a light on my license plate?
Can you be stopped or ticketed in California for a plate light being out? Yes, you can be stopped, and you may receive a ticket, especially if you are driving after dark. California vehicle rules require that the rear plate is illuminated and legible at night.