License Plate and Reverse Light replacement

[drolfo]

I did this on my 2005 CTS
I didn't realize how much of a pain it would be to replace my license plate lights until I put hands on and figured it out myself. Here is the step by step for you:

What you will need:
-10mm deep socket/ratchet
(if you don't have the deep socket, which I didn't, a crescent wrench and needle nose pliers will work)
-Flat head screwdriver (for plastic clips)
-Sylvania bulb Part Number 2825 (License Plate)
and/or
-Sylvania bulb Part Number 3157 (Reverse Lights)

1. Open trunk and locate 8 plastic clips.
2. Remove a 8 clips
3. Remove the 8 nuts from the inside of the trunk
4. Pop out license plate/reverse light section from the outside of the car
5. Which ever light you need to change, turn that socket a 1/4 to the left and replace bulb
6. Repeat step in reverse to put together

The reverse lights are noted by the blue arrows in my pictures

[BenzCTS]

Very good write up!

[drolfo]

thanks

[Argent1]

Just replaced my LP LED's today. One was flashing.
It wasn"t too bad this time but if you have a spoiler you have to loosen it to get the panel off, bit of a PITA.
Plus it was about 0* C.

[TunixComplex]

For some reason my LP LEDS go out once a month so I went back to standard halogen style and havent had a problem. Also there are 4 extra bolts to take off the rear fascia on the 05 verses the 03? Weird.

[Argent1]

I replaced mine with SMD style as recommended by Superbright.
I used the WLED-WHP5's. They seem to have a resistor built into them. If they are too bright for my liking I may change them in the spring.
I like the colour of Cool Blue but these only came in Natural White.

[carrnuttdave]

I just took out the bulbs in my license plate lights and got one of those stick on LED strips that has a row of LEDS. I had to drill a small hole on the under side of where the license plate goes but so far I haven't had any trouble with it. been there over a year