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Jeep Wrangler JK: How to Replace Rearview Mirror Map Lights

Map lights are a nice accessory to have when looking for keys or other small objects that have fallen in the cabin. Instead of living with burnt out bulbs, why not replace them? Learn how-to here.

By Neftali Medina - November 16, 2015
Contributors: speedkar99

This article applies to the Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-present).

Have you ever dropped a quarter or some other small object under your seat? I'm sure the next option was to slam on the interior lights from the roof of your Jeep. Map lights are offered as a standard option to shine more light inside the cabin of your Jeep Wrangler. They are located in several locations, including the mid-rear and middle section of the ceiling. Usually, map lights can be replaced just by removing the old bulb and sliding in a new one. However, rear view mirror bulbs on your Jeep Wrangler JK require the chip set to be removed so new lights can be soldered in place. Replacing the bulbs with LED lights is recommended, as LEDs last considerably longer and are brighter.

Materials Needed

  • Soldering iron
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Screwdriver
  • LED bulbs
  • Solder

Step 1 – Remove the rear view mirror

Use the screwdriver to remove the mounting bolt on the roof of the Jeep. Before removing the complete assembly, disconnect the wire connectors from behind the mirror.

Figure 1. Remove the rear view mirror assembly.

Step 2 – Disassemble the rear view mirror

Unlike other map lights, the bulbs inside the mirror are soldered in place. So take the flat-head screwdriver and pry the outer assembly apart from the mirror. Then take off the front mirror bezel.

  • Figure 2. Take apart the rear view mirror assembly.
  • Figure 3. Take apart the mirror bezel.

Step 3 – Replace the bulbs

  • Cut off the old bulbs from the main chip.
  • Using a soldering iron and solder, install the new bulbs.
Figure 4. Solder in the new LED lights.

Step 4 – Reassemble the rear view mirror

  • Put the mirror bezel back together.
  • Connect the wiring for the lights and check to see if both are working. If they are not working, open the mirror up and check the connections. The solder points should both be clean.
  • Once everything is in working order, mount the mirror back onto the roof of the Jeep.
Figure 5. Rear view mirror map lights replaced.

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