Clear tail lights are legal in the US according to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, which state that lamp assembly performance and color should be measured with the light source energized. Clear tail lights are also known as Altezza lights, Lexus lights, Euro lights, crystal lights, or clear lights.
They consist of one or more internal lamp units covered with a clear or tinted acrylic cover. Acrylic is the most common material used for clear tail light lenses due to its transparency, optical clarity, UV resistance, lightweight, and moldability.
To achieve clear tail lights, you can either purchase aftermarket clear tail lights or modify existing tail lights by removing any colored covers or lenses.
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Are Clear Tail Lights Legal?
Are clear tail lights legal in the US? Yes. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards clearly state that measuring the performance and color of a lamp assembly is done with the light source energized.
Use Regulations
In the United States, the legality of clear tail lights is governed by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. These regulations mandate that the performance and color of a lamp assembly be measured with the light source energized. As long as the clear tail lights meet these requirements, they are considered legal.
Clear Lenses On Rear Lights
One common modification that people make to their tail lights is replacing the stock lenses with clear lenses. These clear lenses, also known as “Altezza lights” or “Euro lights”, can give a more modern and stylish look to the vehicle. However, it is important to note that clear lenses are not the same as clear tail lights.
Clear lenses are typically installed on top of the existing tail light housing and do not alter the color or performance of the light emitted. As long as the light emitted from the tail lights meets the required standards, the use of clear lenses is generally considered legal.
It is worth mentioning that specific regulations regarding clear tail lights may vary from state to state. It is recommended to check the local regulations and safety standards before making any modifications to the vehicle’s tail lights.
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How To Make Clear Tail Lights
To create clear tail lights, start by removing the existing tails and cleaning the inside of the housing. Then, use a heat gun to soften the sealant and carefully pull apart the lenses. After removing the old color, apply a clear coat and seal the lenses back together.
Diy Methods
If you’re a car enthusiast looking to add a unique touch to your vehicle, making your own clear tail lights can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. While professional installation is always an option, taking the DIY route allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your car to your liking.
Here are some DIY methods that you can follow to make your own clear tail lights:
Smoked Film
One popular method is using smoked film to give your tail lights a clear appearance. Smoked film is a translucent material that allows light to pass through while maintaining a dark, tinted look. You can easily apply smoked film to your existing tail lights, giving them a sleek and custom look.
Clear Lens Conversion
Another DIY method involves performing a clear lens conversion. This method requires more advanced skills and knowledge of car electrical systems. You’ll need to remove the existing lens and replace it with a clear lens to achieve the desired clear effect. It’s important to research and follow proper installation procedures to ensure functionality and safety.
Professional Installation
If you’re not confident in your DIY skills or simply prefer a hassle-free option, professional installation is always available. Hiring a professional ensures that the installation is done correctly and guarantees a high-quality result. Here are a few reasons why you might opt for professional installation:
Expertise and Experience
Professional installers have the knowledge and experience to handle the complex wiring and electrical work involved in tail light modifications. They know the best techniques and have access to professional-grade tools and equipment to ensure a seamless installation.
Time and Convenience
Professional installation saves you time and effort. Instead of spending hours researching and attempting the installation yourself, you can leave it in the hands of experts and focus on other tasks. Professionals can efficiently complete the job, allowing you to enjoy your upgraded clear tail lights sooner.
Safety and Compliance
Professional installers ensure that the modification is done safely and complies with all relevant regulations and standards. They have a thorough understanding of legal requirements, such as the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your clear tail lights meet the necessary criteria.
Whether you choose to go the DIY route or opt for professional installation, making your own clear tail lights can enhance the aesthetics of your vehicle and make a unique statement on the road. Consider your skill level, time availability, and desired outcome to determine the best approach for you.
Materials Used For Clear Tail Light Lenses
Clear tail light lenses are commonly made from acrylic, a durable material known for its transparency, UV resistance, and lightweight nature. Acrylic lenses provide enhanced visibility and uniform illumination, making them ideal for creating clear tail lights.
Clear tail lights have become increasingly popular among car enthusiasts due to their sleek and stylish appearance. But have you ever wondered what materials are used to create these eye-catching lenses? In this section, we will explore the most common material used for clear tail light lenses, which is acrylic, as well as other alternative options.
Acrylic
Acrylic is undoubtedly the most widely used material for clear tail light lenses, and for good reason. Its transparency, optical clarity, and UV resistance make it an ideal choice for creating lenses with enhanced visibility and durability. Acrylic is a thermoplastic, meaning it can be easily molded into various shapes, resulting in lenses that fit seamlessly into the design of different car models.
Furthermore, acrylic is lightweight, adding little to no extra weight to the vehicle. This is particularly important for those who are conscious about performance and fuel efficiency. The lightweight acrylic lenses also help to minimize any strain on the mounting points, ensuring a secure installation.
With its high resistance to impact and weathering, acrylic lenses are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the road, including rain, UV exposure, and minor collisions. This durability ensures that your clear tail lights will maintain their pristine appearance for years to come.
Other Alternatives
While acrylic is the go-to material for most car manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers, there are a few alternative materials that can be used for clear tail light lenses. These materials include polycarbonate and glass.
Polycarbonate is another thermoplastic that offers excellent impact resistance and is commonly used in automotive lighting applications. It is known for its shatterproof properties, making it the preferred choice for lenses that require a higher level of durability. Additionally, polycarbonate can be molded into intricate shapes, allowing for more creative and unique tail light designs.
Glass, on the other hand, is a traditional material that has been used for tail light lenses in the past. While it may not be as commonly used today, glass lenses provide exceptional optical clarity and resistance to scratching. However, it is important to note that glass lenses are more fragile compared to acrylic and polycarbonate, making them less suitable for rough road conditions.
In conclusion, the material used for clear tail light lenses plays a crucial role in both their performance and appearance. Acrylic is the frontrunner due to its transparency, impact resistance, and lightweight nature. However, polycarbonate and glass are also viable options for those seeking different levels of durability and optical clarity.
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Where To Buy Clear Tail Lights
Online Stores
Looking to buy clear tail lights for your vehicle online? There are several online stores that offer a wide range of options to choose from. Some popular websites to consider include:
- xgenauto.com – Prices range from $389.00 to $649.99
- Amazon.com – Seller – Offers prices ranging from $109.99 to $189.95
- illumaesthetic.com – Products available from $300.00 to $580.00
- Shopify – Unique Style Racing Store – Offers clear tail lights ranging from $215.95 to $750.00 with discounts available
Automotive Retailers
For those who prefer to make their purchase in person, there are various automotive retailers that stock clear tail lights. options.
- NTXGlow, Eurobahndynamics, and Suncoast Porsche Parts
- Terlizzi Autoconcepts and Yota Nation
- Subaru GD Clear Taillights – Available from procivic.com at $169.99
- Moto MPH Integrated Turn Signal Taillights – Clear tail lights offered at different prices by various sellers on Amazon
Additionally, you can also explore custom tail light manufacturers for unique and personalized options. Just ensure clear tail lights are in compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to ensure legality and safety on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions On Clear Tail Lights
Are Clear Tail Lights Legal In The US?
Yes, clear tail lights are legal in the US. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards state that measuring the performance and color of a lamp assembly is done with the light source energized. Clear lenses on rear stop/turn/tail lights are also legal.
What Are Clear Tail Lights Called?
Clear tail lights are commonly referred to as Altezza lights, Lexus lights, Euro lights, crystal lights, or clear lights. They consist of one or more internal lamp units covered with a clear or tinted acrylic cover. Acrylic is the most common material used for clear taillight lenses due to its transparency, optical clarity, UV resistance, and lightweight properties.
How Do I Make My Tail Lights Clear?
To make your tail lights clear, follow these steps:
1. Clean the tail lights thoroughly using soap and water.
2. Sand the tail lights gently with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any scratches.
3. Apply a clear coat of automotive lens restoration kit to the tail lights, following the instructions on the kit.
4. Allow the clear coat to dry completely before reattaching the tail lights to your vehicle. 5. Regularly clean and maintain the clear coat to keep your tail lights clear and shiny.
What Material Is Used For Clear Taillight Lenses?
Clear taillight lenses are typically made from acrylic material. Acrylic offers transparency, UV resistance, and lightweight design, ensuring uniform illumination and enhanced visibility. This material is commonly used due to its optical clarity and moldability.
Conclusion
Clear tail lights are a popular choice for vehicle owners looking to enhance the appearance of their vehicles while maintaining legality. Not only are clear tail lights legal in the US, but they also offer improved visibility and safety on the road.
Clear tail lights, also known as Altezza lights, are made with acrylic lenses that provide transparency, optical clarity, and UV resistance. Whether you choose to purchase clear tail lights or modify your existing ones, they can give your vehicle a unique and stylish look.
Consider upgrading your tail lights to clear ones for a sleek and modern aesthetic.