How to change the brake light in a 2013 Buick Verano?

The quickest way to fix a fading or burnt brake light on a 2013 Buick Verano is to replace the tail-light bulb in the rear housing. The center high-mounted brake light (CHMSL) is commonly an LED module and may require replacing the entire unit rather than a bulb. Below are the detailed steps, tools, and considerations to guide you through the process.

What you need to know about the Verano brake lights

There are two separate braking light elements on most Verano models: the exterior tail/stop bulbs housed in the rear left and right taillights, and the center high-mounted brake light on the trunk lid. The tail light bulbs are replaceable, while the CHMSL can be LED in many trims and often not serviceable as a bulb. Always verify the exact bulb type and replacement method for your car’s trim level in the owner's manual or on the bulb itself.

Identifying bulb types in the tail lights

Tail light assemblies on the Verano typically use dual-filament bulbs such as 3157 or 3057 variants for the brake and taillight functions. The exact bulb type can vary by market and production run, so confirm the correct bulb by inspecting the bulb in place or consulting the manual. Handle new bulbs with gloves or a clean cloth to avoid transferring oils to the glass.

Before you begin the replacement, make sure you have the correct replacement bulb and the necessary basic tools ready to minimize trips to the parts store.

1. Open the trunk and trim panels to access the rear taillight housing. Depending on the model, you may need to lift a carpeting panel or remove a small inner cover to reach the bulbs.


2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the taillight housing. This may require pressing a tab or releasing a clip.


3. Remove the screws or bolts that hold the taillight assembly in place. In some cars, the bulb socket can be accessed by twisting the socket counterclockwise.


4. Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull it out of the housing. Carefully remove the old bulb from the socket.


5. Install the new bulb into the socket, ensuring it seats fully. Avoid touching the glass with bare hands; use gloves or a clean cloth.


6. Reinsert the bulb socket into the taillight housing, turn clockwise to lock, and reconnect the electrical connector. Reattach the taillight assembly with its screws/bolts and replace any interior trim.

Test the brake lights before finishing up. Have a helper press the brake pedal while you observe both sides to confirm the new bulbs illuminate brightly and evenly. If a bulb burns out again, recheck the socket, wiring, and fuses for any fault.

Center high mount brake light (CHMSL) considerations

The center high-mounted brake light on the Verano is often an LED module, which means individual LEDs are not replaceable. If the CHMSL fails, replacement typically requires installing a new CHMSL assembly mounted on the trunk lid. If your CHMSL is an incandescent bulb (less common on newer builds), the bulb may be accessible from inside the trunk lid in a similar manner to the exterior taillights.

Before attempting CHMSL work, confirm whether your vehicle’s CHMSL uses a replaceable bulb or an integrated LED unit. This will determine whether you replace a bulb or the entire third-brake-light assembly.

1. If your CHMSL uses a replaceable bulb: open the trunk, locate the CHMSL housing, and remove the screws or clips securing the lens or housing. Disconnect the electrical connector if present. Remove the bulb socket, replace the bulb, and reassemble in reverse order. Test the CHMSL to ensure it lights correctly.


2. If your CHMSL is an LED module: obtain the correct replacement CHMSL assembly for your Verano model. Remove the old unit by detaching its mounting screws or clips, disconnecting the electrical connector, and installing the new assembly. Reconnect power and test to confirm operation.

In all cases, if you are unsure whether your CHMSL is LED or incandescent, or if the lighting problem persists after bulb replacement, consult a professional technician or a Buick dealership. Faulty brake lights can affect safety and may fail an inspection.

Electrical checks and safety considerations

Always start by inspecting the relevant fuses if the lights don’t illuminate after bulb replacement. Look for fuses labeled STOP, BRAKE, or TAIL in your vehicle’s fuse box, and consult the owner’s manual for the precise diagram. When working with electrical components, disconnecting the negative battery terminal is an extra precaution to prevent shorts or shocks.

Handling the bulbs with care reduces the risk of breakage. If moisture or condensation appears inside the tail light housing, address leaks before replacing bulbs to prevent premature corrosion or failure.

Summary

To change a brake light on a 2013 Buick Verano, start with the exterior taillight bulbs. Access the rear taillight housing from the trunk, remove the socket, replace the bulb (typically 3157 or 3057 variants), and reassemble. The CHMSL is usually an LED module and may require replacing the entire third-brake-light assembly if it fails. Always verify bulb types and follow safety precautions, including fuse checks and battery disconnection when necessary. If you’re unsure, seek professional assistance to ensure proper function and safety.