How Much It Costs to Fix a Tail Light on a Honda Accord

Expect to pay about $20–$150 for a simple bulb replacement, $180–$600 to replace a full tail light assembly with aftermarket parts, and $320–$1,100 with Honda OEM assemblies; complex wiring or diagnostic issues can add $150–$400. Pricing varies by model year (bulb vs. LED), part choice (aftermarket vs. OEM), and labor rates in your area. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you estimate your specific situation and choose the most cost‑effective path.

What Drives the Price

The Honda Accord spans multiple generations with different tail-light designs. Older models primarily use inexpensive incandescent bulbs, while many newer Accords integrate LEDs into sealed assemblies. The type of failure—bulb burnout, a cracked lens, or an electrical fault—largely determines whether you’re buying a $10 bulb or a multi-hundred-dollar assembly, plus labor. Regional labor rates, dealership vs. independent shops, and OEM vs. aftermarket parts also influence the total.

Typical Price Ranges by Repair Type

These ranges reflect recent U.S. pricing and common labor rates as of 2025. Your final total will depend on local shop rates, taxes, and specific trim/year.

• Bulb-only replacement (older Accords, or trims still using incandescent): parts $5–$25; labor 0.3–0.7 hr; total $20–$150.
• LED module or board (if serviceable separately on certain years): parts $50–$200; labor 0.5–1.0 hr; total $120–$350.
• Complete tail light assembly, aftermarket: parts $120–$300; labor 0.5–1.2 hr; total $180–$600.
• Complete tail light assembly, Honda OEM: parts $250–$900; labor 0.5–1.2 hr; total $320–$1,100.
• Electrical diagnosis/repair (wiring, socket, fuse, connector, water intrusion fix): diagnosis $50–$150; repair $100–$300 labor/parts; total typically $150–$400+ depending on fault.

In practice, straightforward bulb jobs are the least expensive, while modern LED assemblies and collision-related replacements are the primary drivers of higher bills.

Model-Year Considerations

Accord design changes affect what fails and what you’ll spend. Older models lean toward simple, cheap fixes; newer models with LED integration often require full assemblies.

• Pre-2013 (older generations): Mostly incandescent bulbs; quick and low-cost replacements.
• 2013–2017: Mix of bulb-based and partial LED elements depending on trim; assembly replacement may be needed if lens is cracked.
• 2018–2022: Greater LED integration; failures often mean replacing the whole lamp assembly.
• 2023–2025 (11th gen): Predominantly LED assemblies; OEM parts tend to be pricier, though reliable.

If you’re unsure which your car has, check your owner’s manual or visually inspect: a distinct replaceable bulb socket suggests incandescent; a sealed, finned, or fully molded unit typically means LED assembly.

Labor Rates and Time

Labor is a significant cost variable. Nationally, 2025 shop labor rates commonly fall between $110–$170 per hour. Time varies by task and whether the lamp is on the quarter panel or trunk lid.

• Bulb replacement: 10–40 minutes (0.3–0.7 hr).
• Full assembly replacement: 30–75 minutes (0.5–1.2 hr).
• Electrical diagnosis: 0.5–1.0 hr to pinpoint; repair time varies by fix.

Outer quarter-panel lamps can require trim removal, while inner trunk-lid lamps are faster, nudging labor time up or down accordingly.

Sample Out-the-Door Scenarios

These illustrative examples combine typical parts and labor to show what you might expect at an independent shop; dealer pricing tends to skew higher, especially on OEM parts.

• 2009 Accord bulb burned out: $10 bulb + 0.4 hr labor = $60–$100 total.
• 2016 Accord cracked outer lamp, aftermarket assembly: $180 part + 0.7 hr labor = $260–$320 total.
• 2019 Accord LED assembly failure, OEM part: $520 part + 0.8 hr labor = $610–$660 total.
• 2024 Accord intermittent tail light, wiring fault: $110 diagnosis + $150 repair = $260 total (if no assembly needed).

Collision damage, rusted fasteners, or water intrusion remediation can raise totals beyond these examples.

DIY vs. Professional Repair

When DIY Makes Sense

Owners with basic tools can often replace bulbs or even assemblies on many Accords. This can save labor but requires care to avoid damaging trim or seals.

• Bulb swaps: Typically accessible via trunk; minimal tools needed.
• Assembly swaps: Requires trim removal, fasteners, and careful sealing to prevent leaks.
• Basic troubleshooting: Check fuses, sockets for corrosion, and connectors for loose pins.

If you’re comfortable removing trunk liners and handling electrical connectors, DIY can cut the bill to just the price of parts.

When to Choose a Shop

Professional service is wise when the issue involves electrical diagnostics, moisture intrusion, or body alignment after a collision.

• LED assembly failures on newer models.
• Wiring harness issues, shorts, or repeated fuse blows.
• Water leaks, condensation, or cracked housings needing proper sealing.

A shop’s diagnostic tools and experience help prevent repeat failures and ensure proper fitment and weatherproofing.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

Choosing between Honda OEM and aftermarket assemblies affects price, fit, and longevity.

• OEM: Best fitment and finish; typically higher cost; often 12-month parts warranty through the dealer.
• Aftermarket: Lower cost; quality varies by brand; check DOT/SAE compliance and reviews.
• Used/recycled OEM: Cost-effective and OEM quality; inspect for cracks, UV damage, or moisture.

For late-model LED lamps, OEM often provides the most reliable match to factory brightness and appearance.

Insurance, Tickets, and Compliance

A failed tail light is a safety and legal issue. Whether to involve insurance depends on damage type and your deductible.

• Insurance: Collision or comprehensive may cover impact or vandalism; if the part costs less than your deductible (often $250–$500), paying out of pocket is simpler.
• Fix-it tickets: Many states issue correctable citations; fines vary but are avoidable if you repair promptly.
• Inspections: Some states’ safety inspections will fail a vehicle with inoperative or cracked tail lights.

Prompt repair avoids tickets and ensures nighttime visibility to other drivers.

Tips to Save Money

Smart sourcing and basic checks can lower your total without compromising safety.

• Verify the failure: Swap bulbs side-to-side, check fuses, and inspect sockets before buying an assembly.
• Compare parts: Price OEM vs. reputable aftermarket; consider used OEM from a recycler with a return policy.
• Bundle work: Combine with other maintenance to reduce separate visit fees.
• Mobile services: For simple bulb jobs, mobile mechanics can be cost-competitive and convenient.

Taking a few minutes to diagnose and shop around can shave substantial costs off an otherwise simple fix.

Warranty and Recalls

Factory bumper-to-bumper coverage is typically 3 years/36,000 miles on new Hondas; tail light assemblies are covered during that period. Out of warranty, dealers may still assist if a known issue exists, but this is case-by-case. There is no widely publicized, current nationwide recall on Accord tail lights; verify your VIN on NHTSA or Honda’s site for any applicable recalls or Technical Service Bulletins before paying out of pocket.

Bottom Line

For most Honda Accords, a tail light fix ranges from $20–$150 for a bulb to $320–$1,100 for an OEM LED assembly replacement, with aftermarket options often landing in the $180–$600 range. Confirm whether you have a simple bulb or a sealed LED unit, compare part options, and factor in local labor rates to zero in on your true cost.

Summary

Most Honda Accord tail light repairs are inexpensive if it’s just a bulb, but newer LED-equipped models can require full assembly replacement, raising costs. Expect $20–$150 for bulb jobs, $180–$600 for aftermarket assemblies, and $320–$1,100 for OEM assemblies, plus $150–$400 if electrical repairs are needed. Shop around for parts, consider DIY for simple tasks, and check for any coverage or bulletins before you pay.

Is it expensive to fix a tail light?

Not only is a tail light replacement an easy maintenance task, but it’s also relatively affordable. For example, the cost of a brake light replacement bulb can range from $6 to $30. From only paying for tools to bypassing labor costs, you can stand to save some cash by DIYing this task.

Can I fix my tail light myself?

Yes, you can often fix a tail light yourself by replacing the bulb, which is a straightforward DIY task for most vehicles. For more significant damage, you may be able to temporarily repair a cracked tail light with epoxy or automotive lens tape, but a complete replacement of the tail light assembly might be necessary for broken housing. To ensure you perform the repair correctly, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a specific YouTube video for your car’s model.
 
This video demonstrates how to replace a tail light bulb: 56sHome & Garden for Mere MortalsYouTube · Nov 5, 2016
Steps to Replace a Tail Light Bulb

1. 1. Identify the bulb: Have a friend test the lights while you watch to locate the burnt-out bulb. 
2. 2. Find your vehicle’s instructions: Consult your owner’s manual or watch a specific YouTube video to understand how to access the tail light assembly or internal access panel for your car. 
3. 3. Access the bulb: You may need to open your trunk or remove an interior trim panel to access the back of the assembly. 
4. 4. Remove the old bulb: Twist or push the bulb socket to release it and pull out the old bulb. 
5. 5. Insert the new bulb: Carefully place the new bulb into the socket, making sure it’s the correct type from the manual. 
6. 6. Reassemble: Reinstall the assembly, secure any fasteners, and then have your friend test the new bulb before fully tightening everything. 

Repairing a Cracked Tail Light

1. 1. Clean the damaged area: Remove any loose plastic or debris. 
2. 2. Apply adhesive: Use a strong epoxy designed for automotive plastics or specialized lens repair tape. 
3. 3. Add color: To maintain a red light, mix red acrylic paint with the epoxy before applying it. 
4. 4. Allow to cure: Give the repair ample time to dry and cure completely, as this can prevent moisture from getting inside. 

Tips for Success

• Use the right tools: A Phillips head screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, and possibly a socket wrench may be needed. 
• Wear gloves: This protects your hands and prevents fingerprints from reducing bulb lifespan. 
• Be patient: Some vehicles require more complex removal of interior panels. Take your time to avoid damaging your car’s components. 

How much is it to fix a rear tail light?

Cost to replace a tail light is on average £130, but can range from £120 to over £180.

Can you legally drive with a broken tail light?

Yes, it is generally illegal to drive with a burnt-out lower tail light in most places. Tail lights are crucial for signaling your presence to other drivers, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions.