If the light over the rear license plate on your Toyota Avalon goes out, you will need to replace it right away. Law enforcement officials depend on the light to illuminate your license plate, and most states require that you keep it operational at all times. You can be ticketed for improper equipment if your license bulb is out. The Avalon uses a 4.8-watt bulb with a glass wedge base over the license plate. Buy a replacement bulb at an auto parts retail store and change it in minutes at home.
Open the trunk of your Avalon. Pull free the clips that secure the black plastic lining inside the trunk. Set the lining aside.
Unclip the sensor by pulling it straight down. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it from the assembly. Pull the bulb out of the socket and replace it with a new bulb.
Insert the new bulb into the assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Push the sensor back into position and clip it into place.
Replace the black plastic cover and press in on the clips to lock the panel in place. Close the trunk and turn on the lights to test the new bulb.
