Got these finished up a few days ago, and thought I'd share the pics. They look great on an OB car. They do look VERY aftermarket, and are really noticeable. They're not subtle.

The trunk lights are actually the easiest part, and crack right open in about 2 minutes; not sure why more DIYers on these don't do them; seems like most just do the outer lights.

Zero reduction in light output, which is pretty cool.

 

I'm not trying to be a jerk. No seriously, I'm not, but what exactly are you showing here? Did you tint the taillights or something?

 

Yeah I think he tinted the tail lights. But OP, based on the pictures you provided, they are subtle. I did noticed the white part of the reverse lights was blacked out though.

 

There may not be a LOT of light loss but I don't see how zero light loss is physically possible when you are putting anything over the lenses.

 

There's nothing over the lenses

For those not familiar with "midnight" tails (180 customs came up with the method/name,) it involves opening up the taillights, and painting the interior chrome black. Zero light loss!

 

Dont know how nobody has caught on to what OP did. He opened up the taillight and painted the reflective chrome black. Essentially the same as what most of us do to headlights. So yes, 0 loss of light. Good work OP

 

yup a very popular mod by 180customs and i like the look of it though its a subtle change it is still noticeable. nice job!

 

Ahhh...makes sense then. Looks great.

 

Oh ok sweet. I'll keep mine factory though

 

Wish someone made a how2. Is it as easy as baking and opening the headlights? I would think there would be some risk of cooking the LEDs.

 

You have to dremel, they arent sealed the same way as headlights.

IMO its one of those if you have to ask how to do it, you probably shouldnt be attempting it kind of things.

I tried it on my mazda3 and it didnt work out

 

I followed this DIY for the coupe, and it's almost identical.

http://www.myg37.com/forums/body-int...t-project.html

the stuff that isn't the same is very self-explanatory.

The key is in the knife - the right knife cuts through these extremely easily. Don't use a standard box-cutter. I bought a razor knife, and the best blades (black) on offer at HD.

The trunk lights are incredibly easy, but they can't be opened from the back like the regular tails. They can be split with the knife along the glue line, and crazyglued back together.

If I can answer any other questions, LMK!

You can doo eeet!

 

As intrepid as I am with mods, you're probably right - the slightest misstep will ruin the lights. I'll admit to cracking one of the trunk lights while taking it apart (and buying a new one on ebay.)

That said, if one takes their time (and does it on a spare set of lights, like I did,) it's entirely doable without any requisite skill other than caution.

I would NOT suggest using a dremel. It melts while it cuts, and you'll never get them back together by plastic welding. Also, you stand a great shot at scratching up things inside the housing.

 

oh wow, bookmarked. I had no idea you cut cut taillights with a measly knife. Maybe my previous project would have gone better.

But what kind of knife is that? How is it not breaking?

 

I used a heavy-duty razor knife from home depot (said on the packaging that it could cut through carpet, etc.)

it wasn't exceptionally expensive - maybe $15 with the blades. I got one of the ones that has blades that are segmented, and snap off. I can post the brand later - it worked perfectly.