Tail Light wiring harness disconnect from bulb socket

I need some help I can’t seem to disconnect my rear tail light wiring harness from the bulb socket. Do I need to push down, pull back etc I want to install a MESO total tail stage 1 kit? So far I can’t seem to figure out out to separate the harness so I can plug in the provided one in the kit. YouTube doesn’t really show the process other than people seem to simply pull the bulb socket from the harness with ease.

 

I had this same problem when I installed the Stage 1 on my truck. You have to twist the bulbs out. Sometimes they stick.

 

Squeeze and pull by hand outward. I had trouble with the reverse light so I used a pair of pliers (very gently).

 

I can get the bulbs out without an issue it is separating the harness from the socket itself. Pulling, tucking etc hasn’t work yet and I don’t want to start using some tool to force something and end up breaking something.

 

What should I be squeezing?

 

There's a little clip on the top of the sockets

 

The tab. It's just hard the first time. Use a screwdriver liberally and give it some play. Don't force it! But a flathead should give you the extra play you need. Be patient. Wiggle a lot.

I will not take bets on them breaking. $10, do I hear $10?

 

These can be a pain. I use a small screw driver to gently pry the light socket from the connector housing. Do this while squeezing the tab. If you plan on ever doing anything again back there, a tiny dab of dielectric grease on the connector housings works well. Let me see if I have a pic to show where to squeeze

 

Try to use your fingers...it's way better than tools. Except for that reverse light connector.

 

Thanks I appreciate the help from everyone.

 

Start at the 2:00 mark..
https://youtu.be/06VsDjrXqXw

 

I used a small flat head to release the connector tab. I remember a few of them were VERY tough, I think it was the reverse lights?

 

Yes and careful with the locking tab.

 

Air hammer?

 

I walked away from it for now. Tomorrow if can’t figure it out I will take brother in law a former Toyota mechanic who can fix just about anything.

 

I was able to get them disconnected and reconnected and now lights are installed. I used a little WD40 and just like that they removed super easy. Tough little buggers but in the end I was successful. Thanks for your help.