The replacement is a quick DIY task: access the rear license plate light housing from the inside of the trunk, swap in an identical 12-volt bulb, reseat the housing, and test the lights. The job typically takes just a few minutes per side with minimal tools.
What you’ll need
Before you start, gather the right bulb and some basic items to handle it safely and cleanly.
- Replacement bulb: a 12-volt wedge-base bulb (common types are W5W/194 or T10). Check the bulb currently in the housing to confirm the exact base.
- Clean gloves or a lint-free cloth to avoid transferring oils to the bulb.
- Small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool (optional, if the lens is tight or held with small clips).
- Replacement license plate mounting screws (optional, if a screw is damaged or missing).
Having the correct bulb and a clean grip helps ensure a proper fit and long bulb life.
Accessing the license plate light
On a 2012 Accord, the license plate lights are mounted on the inside of the trunk lid, above the plate. Access is usually straightforward from inside the trunk; the lens cover can be released without removing the plate itself.
- Open the trunk and locate the license plate light assemblies on the left and right sides above the plate.
- Remove the light cover or lens: twist the bulb socket counterclockwise about a quarter-turn to unlock, or gently pry the lens if required. If screws hold the cover, remove them with a small screwdriver.
- Carefully pull the bulb socket straight out of the housing to free the old bulb. Use gloves or a clean cloth to handle the bulb.
- Remove the old bulb from the socket by pulling it straight out and compare it to your replacement to confirm compatibility.
- Insert the new bulb into the socket, ensuring proper orientation of the contacts. Reinsert the socket into the housing and twist to lock, if applicable.
- Reattach the lens or cover until it sits securely in place.
Some trims or aftermarket modifications may differ slightly, but the general approach—access from inside the trunk, swap the bulb, reseat the housing—remains the same.
Troubleshooting and tips
If the new bulb doesn’t light up, double-check that the bulb is fully seated in the socket, the lens is properly secured, and the fuse for the license plate lights is intact. For LED replacements, confirm compatibility with the car’s electrical system and any required resistors or CAN-bus considerations. Avoid touching the glass with bare skin, as oils can shorten bulb life.
When to replace both lights
If one license plate light is out, the other is often a good candidate for replacement at the same time to ensure consistent brightness and prevent future failures. This is a common-sense maintenance step, especially if the car has higher mileage.
Summary
How to replace a 2013 Honda Accord license plate light bulb?
And squeeze these two clips on the side. All right these clips you'll see compress. And now it reveals the light bulb. Let's pull it out might have to wiggle it back and forth.
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.
How to change registration plate light for Honda Accord?
Now we should be able to just reach in there. And just pull the bulb straight out. And now if they've been in there a while they might be a little tight.
How do I change my license plate bulb for my Honda 2012 Accord?
There you go it's in there. You take this little guy you stick it back on. And connect it let's just test it now so I'm only going to show you one do the same thing for the second one.