The exterior lighting warning lite came on in my 2011 base hardtop. It's the driver side brake light, the top bulb of the three that's out. I could just barely turn the socket from the the access panel and it wouldn't come out. I removed the entire tail light assembly to get some leverage and it finally came out with a little muscle. After replacing the bulb and reinstalling the assembly I get the same warning and the same light is out. I decided to swap the middle (which came out with ease) and top lights to see what happens. Same thing- so it's not the bulb or the plastic socket that's the problem. Do I need to replace the entire assembly? I don't want to buy one and still have the same problem. I don't know anyone with a similar car to try a swap and these cars are few and far between at the junkyard. Anyone had a similar issue? Any ideas?

 

You need to replace the socket board, we are now stocking them due to the amount of failures we're seeing. They are different between the 07-early 11 cars and the LCI though, so make sure you get the correct board for your car.

Give us a call if you need any assistance or would like to order the part, we'd be glad to help more.

 

I have the updated taillight for the 2011 model year. When you say the socketboard, I'm assuming that's the electrical part of the taillight assembly. Do you sell that separate from the plastic lens? I talked to the parts guy at the mini dealer and they only sell the entire assembly. Looking online for used I've only found a couple and the entire assembly is what's for sale.

 

Yes, unfortunately the pre LCI cars can get away with just buying a socketboard, but the LCI cars require you to buy a whole tail light assembly.

 

MINIPat, those tail lights are about $190 a piece new, I've got a nearly new set sitting on a shelf at the shop we'd give you a great deal on.

Give us a call if you're interested.

 

I bought a used one this morning. I should have it in a few days. If something is wrong with the part or it's not as advertised I'm going to return it and I promise that you guys will be my first phone call.