How to Tint the Tail Lights on a Car, SUV or Truck

Tinting a tail light is the process of darkening the plastic to make it dimmer. This is a popular car mod amongst enthusiast, and is gaining popularity as of late. Before heading down the hard-to-reverse process of tinting your tail lights, check with your local law enforcement agency first. In some states and local areas, it is illegal to tint or alter in any way the rear lights on your vehicle; in other areas, it is perfectly legal. Know the rules before proceeding.

With that said, tinting the tail lights on your car, SUV, or truck a simple mod that will make it stand out from the crowd, and that has relatively little chance of being messed up.

Step 1

Purchase some aerosol spray-on tint from a local hardware store, auto shop, or online. The tint may be rated for tail lights, and is the ideal kind; if you cannot find spray on tint for tail lights, then window tint will work, but isn't ideal. A popular brand that is used is called 'Niteshade', and will give the lights a smoky look.

Step 2

Remove the tail lights from the body of the car using a screwdriver. If you're not sure about how to remove them, look at the manual for your car. If you cannot remove the lights for one reason or another, you can tape up the car around the lights, but understand that you may get some spray on the body of the car due to wind.

Step 3

Shake the can of tint very well so that it is thoroughly mixed. Place the tail light on a flat surface with paper or a mat under it, and make sure there is no strong breezes that will blow the majority of the tint away. Hold your arm out so that the can is three or four feet away from the light, and spray the first coat using wide-sweeping motions. Do not get too close, and do not allow the tint to pool. The coat should be light and even. Allow to dry, then repeat under the desired amount of tint is achieved.

Step 4

Allow the tint to dry thoroughly before you re-attach the tail light to your car. Get a mirror, and use it to view the tail light brightness when you press the pedal. The lights must be bright, though how bright will depend on your local jurisdiction and state.