Maybe a silly question, but how do I get to it?

 

From inside the trunk. The trunk carpet must be peeled back (removing the plastic clips holding it in place allow you to do this), then you'll have access and can discover what fasteners must come off to allow you to remove the taillight assembly. If I remember correctly from having to do this in early 2010, those taillight assembly fasteners are also plastic and are not a very durable design. I added some rubber flanges that pull the assembly much tighter against the rear panel frame once the assembly is re-installed in place. I believe that slight modification has made my trunk much less likely to leak water through the taillight assemblies as the years go by....

CAUTION: The taillight assembly (in our 2005 model, anyway) is metal and is designed to conduct current to the bulbs it houses. So, DO NOT set that assembly down on the bare metal underneath the trunk carpet once you peel that carpet back. Lay an old towel down on the bare metal underneath the trunk carpet, and then set the assembly down on the towel to avoid shorting out any fuses or relays or blowing any bulbs....

Many folks have made that mistake and created more serious problems with their electrical systems when attempting to replace a burned-out bulb. Take that old towel with you before you begin the process of removing your taillight assembly. The job will be much easier and far less risky if you do....

 

I guess it's a good thing I always keep a towel in the trunk. Thanks for the info.

 

no such thing as a silly question when talking about the English road cat

 

Anyone know of some decent custom rear tail lights for a 2002 v8. Was thinking of doing a light tint on the brake lights but not sure if the spray tint will look any good.

 

kiloslanga: Tail lights have to be visible for a certain distance according to your state's motor vehicle code. You have not chosen to show your location, but in some countries, your suggested "mod" can have serious ramifications in terms of your insurance carrier.

Also, next time around it would be better to start a fresh thread as opposed to tacking your question on to the end of an archival thread from 12 years ago.

 

I googled s type tail light replacement and this thread came up. If you don’t know of any tail light replacements then isn’t it better you don’t post on this old thread also? Not sure why it matters how old the post is but the only reason I may smoke the tail lights (which is perfectly legal here) is because there’s really no s type aftermarket lights.

 

I was going to "bite" on your comments above, but given that you appear to have answered your own question, there is no need.