How do I remove the THIRD brake light without tearing the seal?

My third brake light on my 2007 needs a new bulb. I took the screws out and tried to pull it straight out and it didn't want to move much. I looked and it seems the seal is stuck to the body finish. I have been waiting to change the bulb until I buy a new gasket. Is there a trick to remove the lamp assembly without tearing the seal?

 

Buy a new assembly, they are cheap.

Or seal it afterwards with RTV.

I've not heard that this foam seal can be bought as a replacement part.

 

When my 3rd brake light began leaking I used this stuff.



It is a somewhat common issue on the early gen 4's so when mine began leaking I didnt even bother with another gasket or assembly. Its held up well in the 3+ years since I sealed it. At least on the gen 4 the gasket is very thin. Easy to see why so many leak.

 

Several companies, including MOPAR sell a seal. It has sticky on one side to stick to the lamp assembly.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/For-02-08-...hird-3rd-Brake-Light-Seal-Gasket/183954083684

 

Good to know!

 

I used the old school butyal tape that you set windshields with. No more leaking.

 

When I had my roof repainted recently I thought mine was "stuck" as it seemed waaaay to hard to pull out but it popped out w/o any damage. worth a shot, worst case you have to buy the seal... I never had it out in over 10y I owned it and doubt the PO did either.

 

Heat it up with hair dryer

 

GOOD Idea!