The brake light bulb in a 2017 Hyundai Sonata’s outer rear taillight is typically a 3157 dual‑filament bulb. This is the most common configuration for this model year, though variations can occur by trim level or regional market. Always verify with your owner’s manual or a bulb chart for your specific vehicle.
In practice, the Sonata’s rear lighting setup places the brake and tail light functions in the outer taillight assembly, with the inner portion handling a backup light and other functions depending on trim. Some trims or regional specs may use LED rear lighting, which changes how bulbs are replaced. If you’re unsure, consult the service manual or check the label on the edge of the taillight housing for the exact bulb type required for your VIN.
Bulb configurations you may encounter on the 2017 Sonata
These are the typical configurations you might encounter when servicing the rear lighting. Confirm the exact bulb type by inspecting your vehicle or consulting the owner’s manual for your trim and market.
- 3157 dual‑filament bulb for brake and tail light functions in the outer rear lamp (most common configuration).
- 3157A or similar amber‑tinted variant if the same bulb base is used for the turn signal in some setups.
- LED rear lighting option on higher trims may replace bulbs with LED modules; no replaceable bulb in the outer lamp.
Note: If your Sonata uses LED rear lighting, you won’t find a traditional replaceable bulb in the brake/taillight assembly, and service requires different procedures or dealer assistance. Always verify with your VIN-specific documentation.
How to replace the brake light bulb on a 2017 Sonata
Follow these general steps if your vehicle uses a replaceable bulb in the brake/taillight assembly. If you’re not comfortable performing the replacement, seek a professional technician.
- Open the trunk and locate the rear light cluster access area. Some models have an access panel in the trunk lining; others require removing the light housing screws.
- Remove the access cover or loosen the screws to gain access to the bulb socket.
- Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise to unlock, then pull it out of the housing.
- Disconnect the wiring harness, remove the old bulb from the socket, and insert a new 3157 dual‑filament bulb. Make sure the pins align with the socket.
- Reconnect the socket, reassemble the housing or access panel, and test the brake light to verify proper operation before finishing.
Important: If your model uses LED taillights, you won’t replace a bulb in the outer lamp, and you should follow LED maintenance or replacement guidelines from Hyundai.
Summary
For most 2017 Hyundai Sonata models with replaceable bulbs, the brake light in the outer rear taillight uses a 3157 dual‑filament bulb. Variations can occur by trim or market, and some trims may feature LED lighting instead of bulbs. Always consult the owner’s manual or the bulb information label on the vehicle for your exact specification, especially if you have a VIN that may reflect a different configuration. When in doubt, a dealership or qualified technician can confirm the correct bulb and replacement procedure.