I have a 2000 Maxima which I believe is the base model GXE. It didn't have a trim name (GLE, SE, GXE) on the trunk lid and no extra options. I bought some clear tail lights and the problem I'm having is that the turn signal socket will not fit into the new tail lights. The other two sockets go in and turn/lock. I also noticed that the brake/taillight and backup sockets take the small push in type bulb and the turn signal bulb takes the push and turn type. Is this correct because I've never seen a vehicle have both, they'e normally all the same I thought. Can someone tell me if the 2000 Maxima's came with the same tail lights or were some different because of the trim?

Thanks.

 

Should all be the same. It's not uncommon at all to have to "trim" a little of the socket to get it to insert and turn. I had to do it on any after market tails I've owned.

 

Mine has (2) socket's that take the small flat end type bulbs that just push in and (1) socket that takes the round end that you push in and turn. Is this the way they are supposed to be. I believe every car I've ever owned the sockets took the same type of bulb either all flat or round ends but not both.

The 2000 Maxima that I have doesn't have the trim letters on the rear trunk lid. It just has the name Maxima on the left side but nothing on the right side. As far as I know it's a GXE or it might be called a "base model". Did they not put letters on some? I don't think it was removed but who knows.

 

2000-2001 is a 1157 bulb and 2002-2003 is a 7443 bulb, so yes, turning signal sockets are different.

 

Thanks for the replys. I still don't understand why they would put two different types and sizes of bulbs in the tail lights. It seems like they would have been all 1157 or all the same type and size as the brake/tail and backup light, the small flat end type. Anyway, that explains the problem but now I have to decide what to do about it since the factory 1157 amber bulb won't fit in the smaller aftermarket hole. Maybe I can buy another socket that would take the small flat end type bulb and replace the factory one.

 

The 7440 lamp is the 1156 equivalent. You should be able to get a socket for that at an auto parts store.

 

Or buy the harness at the dealer, they aren't expensive.

 

 

You said you have clear tails now so they must be from a 2002-2003.

The 2000-2001 tails have a different tail/harness combination than the 2002-2003. Physically the tail will fit on the car but if you don't have the matching harness for it you won't be able to plug all the bulbs in properly.

Examples: 2001 car with 2002 tails needs a 2002 bulb harness. 2003 car with 2001 tails needs a 2001 bulb harness. The wiring in the vehicle will accept either bulb harness and work properly.

Hope that's clear as mud.