How to replace 3rd brake light bulb (no spoiler)

[Derek]

My 3rd brake light bulb has been burned out for months so I attempted to replace it last night. I followed the instructions found here:

Third Brake Light Bulb Change Toyota 4Runner (2003-2009) - 2008 Toyota 4Runner SR5 4.0L V6

I have trim removal tools and no matter how hard I tried the lens would not pop out. I felt like one of two things would happen. I would either crack the lens or end up putting an indention in the tailgate right below the lens. Does anybody have any tips on this?

 

[morphious]

That is pretty much how to do it, I used a screw driver with tape on the end of it. It kind of does feel like it may break but mine didn't, I replaced the bulb with an LED for longevity since I feel this is kind of a poor design and didn't want to have to d it again hopefully ever. Here is the PDF from the manual.