How to replace the tag light in a 2005 Honda CR-V

Like many vehicles, the 2005 Honda CR-V has a tag light that illuminates the rear license plate.  The tag light is just a tiny bulb, and the chances are good that at some point it will burn out.  Unless you are in the habit of checking all of your head lights and tail lights before every trip, you probably won't notice when the tag light is out until you see the flashing lights of a police car in your rear view mirror.  Depending on your state, you may or may not have to pay a fine for a burnt-out bulb, but either way you'll have to get the light replaced.

Fortunately, replacing the CR-V's tag light is an easy procedure that most people can do themselves.  The first step is to buy a new bulb (type 2825) which you should be able to find for a few bucks at your local Advance Auto Parts, Pep Boys, or other automotive parts store.  The bulb may come in a package of two, in which case you can store the extra bulb for possible future use.

Replacing the tag light can be a little awkward, simply because of where it is.  Make sure you have enough room to work; park away from any walls, bushes, or other obstructions.  It can be helpful to have something to sit on, such as a toolbox or small stool.  A curb works well, too, if you can park in front of one.

The tag light sits right above the rear license plate.  There is a clear plastic cover over the bulb - it has two tabs, one on each side, and you can remove it by popping out one of the tabs with a flathead screwdriver or a pocketknife.

Once the cover is off, the bulb is exposed.  Pull it straight down to remove it.  Before installing the new bulb, it's a good idea to apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the base of the bulb (where the contacts are) in order to prevent corrosion and moisture buildup.  Then simply insert the bulb.  It should fit snugly into place.

The cover should pop back into place easily -- just push one tab in first and then snap the other side in.  The tabs are spaced differently on either side so that you can't reattach the cover backwards.

Now all that's left is to check to see if the light works.  Start your CR-V and turn on the headlights, then get out and see if the tag light came on.  If it's on, your job is done.  If it doesn't come on, turn the car off, remove the cover, and pull out and reinsert the bulb, then try it again.  If the light still doesn't come on, either the new bulb is bad (which is rare but can happen) or there is a wiring problem and you should have the vehicle professionally looked at.

(Originally published on Helium.com, May 2010)