Removing the Tail Lights on a 2012 Ford Focus Hatch Back for Trailer Wiring Installation

Question:

I have a 5 door hatchback 2012. Do I need to remove the interior trim in the rear compartment? The instructions tell me to remove the wingnut. I have found and removed 2 wingnuts, but from the way the taillight feels, I am sure that there must be a third wingnut. If so, I must have to remove the interior lining to reach it. The instructions are very unclear about how to do this.

asked by: Craig

Expert Reply:

You will need to remove some trim panels in the rear cargo area of your 2012 Ford Focus in order to gain access to the tail light wiring. If you look at the instructions I have linked for the Curt wiring harness, # C56140, there are some helpful pictures.

The tail lights may need to be persuaded slightly because the seals around them can stick. If there are additional fasteners holding on the lights, they may be revealed when you remove the trim panels in the cargo area.

expert reply by: Michael H