Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 Tail Light Replace or Upgrade DIY
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Are your Mercedes-Benz Tail Lights not working? Learn how to fix the problem by replacing your Mercedes-Benz tail light bulbs. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on replacing or upgrading the tail lights on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221.
At a Glance
- Vehicle: 2007 to 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221
- Tools: 8mm socket, flat and Phillips screwdrivers
- Fasteners: Three 8mm nuts behind the trunk liner, plus one connector
- Time: About 15 to 20 minutes per side
- Upgrading: Buy lights made for your model year or you will get a lamp warning
How to Replace Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 Tail Light
What you will need
- W221 LED Tail Lights
- 8mm socket
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
Procedure
- Open the trunk lid.
- Remove two plastic retainers behind the tail light and fold or remove the liner.
- Press two small tabs on the connector and pull it away from the tail light.
- Remove three 8mm nuts.
- Remove the tail light and install the new one.
- Tighten all nuts and connect the electrical connector. Place the liner back in place and reinsert the plastic retainers.
Applicable to model years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013.
If you are upgrading the tail lights to LED on the 2006 to 2009 S-Class, the new taillights need to be designed specifically for those years, or you will get a warning on the dashboard stating marking lights are faulty and the lights may not operate correctly or flash.
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Tail Light Problems on the W221
- Dash warning for a tail or brake lamp: the W221 uses LED tail lights, and individual LEDs usually cannot be replaced, so a failed section normally means a new assembly.
- Light works intermittently: check the connector behind the trunk liner for corrosion or a loose fit before replacing the light.
- Moisture inside the lens: a cracked housing or failed seal lets water in and will kill the LEDs over time.
- Warning after an upgrade: the replacement lights are not the correct type for your model year, as explained above.
The rear lights are monitored by the rear SAM module. A scan tool such as the YOUCANIC UCAN-II Pro can read its fault codes on supported models, which tells you which circuit has the problem before you buy a light.
Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Mercedes-Benz.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove a W221 tail light?
Open the trunk, fold back the liner, unplug the connector and remove three 8mm nuts. The light then pulls out.
Can I replace a single LED in a W221 tail light?
Usually not. The W221 tail lights are sealed LED units, so a failed section means replacing the assembly.
Why do I get a lamp warning after upgrading my tail lights?
The new lights must be designed for your model year. The wrong type triggers a faulty marker lamp warning and the lights may flash or not work.
Which years does this guide cover?
2007 to 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 models.
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