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2013–2016 Ford Escape License Plate Bulb Replacement Guide

  • Writer: Rahrena
    Rahrena
  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

This detailed guide covers the process for replacing the license plate bulbs on a 2013–2016 Ford Escape . NOTE: The above items apply for any 2013-2016 Ford Escape license plate bulb replacement regardless of trim level. There aren't typcially any factory upgrades for these bulbs so it's all the same. You can see this done on our YouTube channel here.

Tutorial for replacing #168 license plate bulbs on a 2013-2016 Ford Escape
Tutorial for changing #168 license plate bulbs on a 2013-2016 Ford Escape

The procedure is straightforward, requires minimal tools, and can be completed in under 10 minutes even if you're a newbie. Daylight will make things easier. NOTE: Even if just one bulb has gone out, replacing both bulbs at the same time is recommended for consistent illumination and to prevent future downtime. These bulbs are both on at the same time and rated for the same number of cycles. Change both of them while you're doing it and save doing this procedure again in the near future!

Tools and Materials Required

  • #168 Bulbs (2 Pack)

  • LED version of the #168 Bulbs (2 Pack)

    • Aftermarket / Upgrade

    • Longer lifespan / Brighter Illumination

    • If you're not familiar with softness/white color of LEDs, you can find a color gradient to match your preferences. White is very bright white. Soft White is more of a typical yellowish white light.

    • Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/42hv7My

  • Clean Cloth or Gloves (to handle bulbs)

  • Small Flathead Driver (to depress lamp housing tabs)

Step-by-Step Replacement Procedure

Since the lamps point downward over the license plate, it's easiest to get to them by opening the rear liftgate and look straight towards the lamp housings and remove them for each bulb replacement...

Step 1: Open the Rear Liftgate

  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface with the ignition off.

  • Open the rear liftgate to access the license plate area.

Step 2: Remove the Lens Housing

  1. Locate the clear plastic lens directly above the license plate (one on each side).

  2. Insert the tip of a small flathead screwdriver into the notch on the inboard side of the lens.

    Depress the tab of the Ford Escape license plate lamp housing with a small flathead screwdriver

  3. Gently press the retention tab inward while pulling the lens assembly outward.

    Removing the license plate bulb housing with a small screwdriver by rocking it outwards

  4. The housing will release and pivot downward, supported by a short wiring pigtail.

    The bulb socket twist locks into the lamp housing. Just quarter turn it and pull out to remove.

Tip: The wiring allows approximately 2–3 inches of movement—do not pull excessively.

Step 3: Remove the Old Bulb

  1. Grasp the gray bulb socket and rotate it ¼ turn counterclockwise.

  2. Pull the socket free from the housing.

    This is what your bulb looks like when removed from the lamp housing.

  3. Wearing gloves or using a cloth, pinch the base of the old #168 bulb and pull straight out.

    Gloves are not necessary but are helpful for a used bulb. They're typically helpful with new bulbs to prevent skin oils from remaining on the bulb surface before use.

  4. Inspect the socket for corrosion or debris; clean with electrical contact cleaner if needed.

Step 4: Install the New Bulb

  1. Align the new #168 bulb with the socket (flat side matches the socket’s flat edge).

    1. NOTE: These "blade" style contacts shouldn't matter an orientation so long as the flat contacts stick into the flat socket. Either 180degree position works.

      Installing a #168 bulb back into the 2013 Ford Escape license plate bulb socket

  2. Press firmly until fully seated.

  3. Reinsert the socket into the housing and rotate ¼ turn clockwise to lock.

Step 5: Reinstall the Lens Housing

  1. Tuck the wiring back into the tailgate cavity.

  2. Align the outboard edge of the lens with the mounting hole.

  3. Pivot the assembly upward until the retention tab clicks securely into place.

Step 6: Repeat for the Opposite Side

  • Follow the same process for the second license plate light to ensure similar brightness/bulb performance.

Step 7: Test the Installation (after finishing both sides of your 2013-2016 Ford Escape license plate bulb replacement)

  • Turn the headlight switch to the parking light or headlight position. This will force the exterior lights on even if it is daytime. (NOTE: Remember to turn it back to Auto afterwards if that's your preference)

    Manually turn the lights to ON to force the exterior lights to activate to test license plate bulb function.

  • Visually confirm both license plates are evenly illuminated.

    Verify that the license plate bulb is functional on your 2013-2016 Ford Escape

  • If one side remains dark, recheck contacts of the bulbs are seated properly.

    • There shouldn't be too many reasons why this wouldn't work.

    • IF you have double checked that the bulb is seated properly and the other bulb is illuminated, there could be a broken wire going to the bulb that is failing to light.


VIDEO TUTORIAL HERE:





Thanks for checking out this post, and let us know if you have any questions in the comments section in the YouTube video or here on the post! See you in the next one.



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