Hi, newbie here. Would really appreciate some help with removing the rear combination lamp assembly on my 2018 Rio 5-Door.
It's the first time I've had to replace the tail lamp, and like most other cars I've owned, I figured this would be a quick trip to the store for a new bulb, and a 10-15 minute process.
Three hours later, here I am on the internet asking for help.
The owner's manual and Gen 4 Rio service manuals I've found on the internet both make it seem like a simple process of removing two screws holding the assembly in place, and then sliding the assembly out of the car body.
That's not working. There must be a clip or other type of fastener near the front of the assembly. I can't get to it, and I don't want to try prying it because if I break that thing, it'll cost more than a busted bulb.
I've searched these forums, but haven't found a thread on a Gen 4 hatchback. It may be similar to some older generations, but I don't want to go on a hunch, and some similar threads show that the Gen 4 is at least different enough.
I can't see any other way of getting to this clip/fastener than removing the interior plastic body panels in the trunk. What a pain in the backside. Can anyone offer some advice?
Here's a video showing what the assembly looks like and the inside body panel.
It's the first time I've had to replace the tail lamp, and like most other cars I've owned, I figured this would be a quick trip to the store for a new bulb, and a 10-15 minute process.
Three hours later, here I am on the internet asking for help.
The owner's manual and Gen 4 Rio service manuals I've found on the internet both make it seem like a simple process of removing two screws holding the assembly in place, and then sliding the assembly out of the car body.
That's not working. There must be a clip or other type of fastener near the front of the assembly. I can't get to it, and I don't want to try prying it because if I break that thing, it'll cost more than a busted bulb.
I've searched these forums, but haven't found a thread on a Gen 4 hatchback. It may be similar to some older generations, but I don't want to go on a hunch, and some similar threads show that the Gen 4 is at least different enough.
I can't see any other way of getting to this clip/fastener than removing the interior plastic body panels in the trunk. What a pain in the backside. Can anyone offer some advice?
Here's a video showing what the assembly looks like and the inside body panel.
