Top Rated Tail Lights for Your Pickup Truck

When you drive your pickup truck, you want tail lights that keep you safe and look great. Brightness and durability matter, but so does design. Choosing the right tail lights can enhance your truck's style while providing you with the best value for your investment.

Key Takeaways

• Pick LED tail lights for more brightness and visibility. They are brighter and use less power than halogen lights.

• Choose tail lights that are strong and can handle weather. This helps them last longer and work well in hard conditions.

• Use an easy installation guide to change your tail lights yourself. Get the right tools and check the lights before you finish.

Key Features of Tail Lights

Brightness and Visibility

Brightness is very important for safety. You want your truck's tail lights to be seen easily. LED tail lights are very bright. They can shine over 100 lumens for every watt. This means they help you see well, especially at night. Lumen shows how much light comes out. More lumens mean brighter lights for your truck.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Durability is key, especially in tough weather. Tail lights must handle rain, heat, and ice. Here’s how different weather affects tail lights:

Choosing tail lights that resist weather can help them last longer.

Design and Aesthetics

You want your truck to look nice, right? The tail lights' design is important for how your truck looks. Many people like modern and cool designs. Custom options with LED tail lights make them more appealing. This is great for those who like to personalize their trucks.

Ease of Installation

Putting in new tail lights should be easy. Look for ones with clear instructions and all parts included. Many aftermarket choices are simple to install. This way, you can upgrade your truck without needing a mechanic.

Price and Value

Lastly, think about the price. You want good quality but also a fair price. Check features and reviews to find the best tail lights for your budget. Buying high-quality tail lights can save you money later by needing fewer replacements.

Best Truck Tail Lights

Recon LED Tail Lights

Recon LED tail lights are popular with truck drivers. They have a cool design and are very bright. These lights help you see better, making your truck noticeable on the road. They also have strong housing that can handle bad weather.

Anzo USA Tail Lights

Anzo USA tail lights are tested carefully. They follow local, state, and federal rules. Each light is checked for strength, durability, and water and dust resistance. You can trust their quality because they come with a one-year warranty. Many users like how reliable and effective these tail lights are.

Spyder Auto Tail Lights

Spyder Auto tail lights meet federal rules, including D.O.T. standards. This means they are safe and work well. They also have a one-year warranty if bought from approved sellers. Some users have had problems with false brake signals in some cars. Still, many think they are among the best truck tail lights because of their stylish looks.

OEM Style Tail Lights

OEM style tail lights give a factory look while improving your truck's style. They fit well and keep the original look. These lights are great if you want a classic style without losing performance.

Duralast Tail Lights

Duralast tail lights are affordable but still dependable. They provide good performance and last long. Many truck owners like their value, making them a popular choice for upgrades without spending too much money.

Comparing Tail Light Types

LED vs. Halogen Tail Lights

When picking LED or halogen tail lights, think about energy use and brightness. LED lights use less energy. They use up to 75% less power than halogen lights. Here’s a quick look:

LEDs light up right away. This makes them much brighter than halogen lights. You will be easier to see by other drivers, especially at night.

Factory vs. Aftermarket Tail Lights

Factory tail lights come with your truck and fit well. They keep your truck's original look. But aftermarket tail lights give you more choices. You can find cool designs and features that make your truck look better. Many truck owners like aftermarket options for their unique styles.

Custom Tail Light Designs

Custom tail light designs are becoming popular with truck fans. Sales for full-size pickup trucks have grown by 9.3% each year. This shows more people want custom parts like tail lights. In fact, pickups make up about 27% of spending on special equipment, showing strong interest in personalizing trucks. If you want your truck to be different, custom tail lights are a great option.

Installation Tips for Tail Lights

Installing new tail lights can be a fun DIY project. With the right tools and a bit of guidance, you can easily upgrade your truck's look and safety. Here’s what you need to know.

Tools Needed for Installation

Before you start, gather these essential tools:

• Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)

• Socket wrench set

• Pliers

• Clean cloth

• Replacement bulbs (if needed)

Having these tools ready will make your installation process smoother.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these steps to install your new tail lights:

1. Access the Tail Light: Open the trunk or rear hatch to reach the tail light assembly. Remove any obstructions that might block your access.

2. Remove the Old Tail Light: Grip the back of the light socket, rotate it to the left, and pull it out. If you need to replace the bulb, slide out the old bulb and insert a new one that matches.

3. Install the New Tail Light: Position the new tail light in place. Make sure it fits snugly and aligns with the mounting holes.

4. Secure the Assembly: Use your screwdriver or socket wrench to tighten the screws or bolts that hold the tail light in place.

5. Test the Lights: Before closing everything up, turn on your car and check if the new tail lights work properly. This step ensures you catch any issues before you finish.

6. Reassemble: Replace any components you removed to access the tail light. Close the trunk or hatch, and you’re done!

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple tasks can have pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Forgetting to Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the battery before starting. This prevents any electrical issues or shocks.

• Not Checking Compatibility: Ensure the new tail lights fit your specific truck model. Double-check the specifications before purchasing.

• Overtightening Screws: While you want a secure fit, overtightening can crack the housing or damage the assembly.

• Neglecting to Test: Always test your new tail lights before finishing up. It’s easier to fix any issues now than later.

By following these tips, you can install your new tail lights with confidence and avoid common errors. Enjoy your upgraded look and improved safety on the road!

Picking the right tail lights is very important for your safety and style. Here are some top picks based on what users say:

When choosing tail lights, consider what you need. Whether you want brightness, durability, or style, there’s a great choice for you!

FAQ

What type of tail lights are best for my pickup truck?

LED tail lights are often the best choice. They’re brighter, more energy-efficient, and last longer than halogen options.

How do I know if tail lights fit my truck?

Check the product specifications and compatibility details. Most manufacturers provide fitment guides for specific truck models.

Can I install tail lights myself?

Yes! Installing tail lights is usually a simple DIY project. Just follow the instructions and use basic tools.