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Kia Rio License Plate Light Bulbs Replacement Guide
How to change a burnt out license plate light bulb in the trunk lid of a 3rd generation 2012 to 2016 Kia Rio sedan.

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2014 Rio License Plate
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License Plate Light Bulb Housing
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Press Release Tab
This automotive maintenance tutorial was specifically written to assist owners of the third generation (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and also the updated 2016 model year) Kia Rio sedan in changing a burnt out license plate light bulb in the trunk lid.

Owners of other Kia and Hyundai vehicles such as the Optima, Forte, Cadenza, K900, Sorento, Sportage, Sedona, Soul, Elantra, Veloster, Sonata, Azera, Tucson, Santa Fe, Genesis and Equus may also find these DIY instructions to be helpful.

A replacement license plate light bulb is part number 2825 or W5W which are available from various manufacturers such as Sylvania, GE, Eiko and PIAA.

If necessary, you may also use any other miniature wedge base bulbs such as # 168, W5W, 158, 194 or a compatible LED unit.

The only tool needed to replace the bulb is a small flathead screwdriver used to release the light bulb housing.



 
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Pull Out Light Housing
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Light Housing Removed
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1/4 Turn Counterclockwise
Press the small black plastic release tab on the inner edge of the light housing.

Pull the light housing out of the trunk lid.

Rotate the base of the bulb socket 1/4 turn counterclockwise before pulling it straight out of the housing.

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Pull Out Old # 168 Bulb
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Push In New 168 Bulb
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1/4 Turn Clockwise - Lock
Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket and push in a new # 2825 bulb (also known as # W5W).

If you'd like brighter license plate light bulbs, there are also LED options available.

Re-insert the socket in to the housing and rotate it 1/4 turn clockwise to secure it in place.

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Re-Insert Wires First
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Pop In Retaining Clip
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Test New Light Bulb
Re-insert the wires and the outer edge of the housing in to the trunk lid first.

Then gently pop in the retaining clip on the inner edge of the housing.

To test the new license plate light bulbs, turn on the headlights or press the "Unlock" button on the key fob.

For more, check out my other 2012-2016 Kia Rio DIY Repair & Maintenance Guides.
 

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