By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. I used rubbing alcohol to clean the lights off. Another reason is being able to push down on the tint while you are shaping it. Flat rate pricing based on labor time and parts, Hand-picked, community-rated professionals, Trusted mechanics, rated by thousands of happy car We mostly park out front, and we have plenty of storage elsewhere in the house. So how do I turn my garage into a playroom? Lay the rough cut piece on your light and begin to squeegee out the Windex with a plastic squeegee. Apply wax on top of the polished finish in the same fashion as the polish. You are essentially putting on a big sticker. Let the tail lights dry for at least an hour before applying the finishing touches: sanding, clear coat, wax, and polish. Gravity will help keep the placement. Another method is to use tinting spray, such as whats offered by the. For spray, use automotive-grade sandpaper (again with some Goo Gone or mineral spirits/paint thinner). Tip: Your tail lights will look pretty good at this point, but a better finish can be achieved by applying clear coat and polishing the finish before re-installing the tinted tail lights. Sometimes I get a helper to apply an ice cube to the area I'm trying to "freeze" into shape. You should use the automotive-grade wet sanding paper and some soapy water to clean the tail light surface. Then, pop the tail lights out of the frame of your vehicle by disconnecting the bulbs and removing the bolts holding them in place. If something on your car doesnt quite fit the mold, you can customize it so that it suits you better. One alternative option, if you'd rather tint your whole light, is to purchase some aftermarket lights, which you can plug into the trailer hitch. Make sure you know your local laws before applying, certain states have more strict laws than others. Use light pressure as you dont want to gouge into the light too deeply. Otherwise, you may ruin your paint job before you are even finished. Use your sharp utility knife to cut the tint film into the shape of the tail lights. If you don't have a squeegee, you can improvise using a credit card or a spatula wrapped in a microfiber towel. I spent about an hour on this light. This will help the tint to take on the proper shape. But I also think some of it is loose dirt that got picked up from my work surface after the first set. Next, take a piece of 1000 grit sandpaper and repeat the sanding process with it. The last thing you want is to be pulled over by a police officer at a red light because your tail lights don't meet the state laws. You can see in the fourth picture how the adhesive can begin to ball up if you take too long. You can also continue to use the heat gun or hair dryer at this point to help you to smooth the film. If you have a little extra on the edges, its okay as you can trim later once the film is applied. Share it with us! Check if you are overpaying for car insurance. Then apply a third layer of tint and let that dry completely. To create this article, 16 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. Although some tinting professionals claim that 3 to 5 layers of clear coat should be enough, others argue that you should apply between 7 and 10 layers for the best results. Step 1: Cut the tint film to the rough size of the tail lights. Tip: Let the tail lights dry for one hour before re-treating them. Open the trunk and pull the stiff carpet liner away from the rear of the trunk where the tail lights are. Take of the protective layer from the adhesive side of the tint film. Dry it with a microfiber cloth to ensure its truly clean before you apply the spray. The wax will seal the tail lights clear coat from fading and discoloration. Last Updated: May 27, 2022 Use the 2,000-grit sandpaper to very lightly scuff the surface of the tint. Tinted tail lights or smoked tail lights can definitely add extra flair to a car, but its not for everyone. Since Windex has alcohol in it, it will dry quicker than soapy water, and allow the tint to stick to the light. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Now that Im retired, Im ready to have a bit more fun. Keep reading the article if you want to learn how to use a spray tint on your tail lights! If you're having difficulty, spray some more solution on the outside of the film and use a heat gun or hair dryer to help stretch out the film and make it more malleable. Edges on tail lights often have a rounded edge. Cover the reverse light area completely, then trim it precisely to size with your utility knife. Wash the tail light with the water and soap, and then dry them completely afterwards. Wash the whole tail light with water, then allow to fully dry. In the majority of cases, three coats of spray tint will be enough to achieve the desired level of tinting. This is where the squeegee comes in handy as you can smooth out the film, removing any excess water and bubbles. First, clean your tail lights thoroughly with soap and water and wipe them dry. This tint can be charged with static electricity so it will pick up any dust or dirt around. A quick internet search for your state plus the phrase "vehicle code" can pull up the legitimate details you need to determine if your tinted tail lights are legal. Connect the new tail light to the electrical wiring harness and snugly fit the tail light back onto the car and ensure that it snaps into place. Get a fair & transparent quote instantly before booking. Peel off the adhesive backing on the film and carefully press it into each tail light, starting in a corner and slowly pressing the film into the plastic as you go. Note: Many jurisdictions have a law which says something like "every motor vehicle must be equipped with at least two tail lamps mounted on the rear, which, when lighted as required by this chapter, emit a red light plainly visible from a distance of 500 feet". Nearly all are connected with a quick-connect style that can be undone by pressing a tab on the connector and pulling the two sides apart. This job is done with a roll of tint from Rvinyl. If you like that ninja stealth look, you might have considered tinting your tail lights. Wipe the surface regularly to check that your progress is even. Just make sure to clean off your working surfaces again. This is the part where most people become impatient and attempt to apply the clear coat too quickly. These tail lights pop out after removing two torx screws and disconnecting the light bulbs. The lights should now feel completely smooth and have a hazy, cloudy color. Clean the lights and allow them to dry. Wait at least 1 hour before applying a clear coat. Allow excess on the edges that will need to be trimmed. If you are not careful the dust will get onto the static charged film. Remember to remove any masking tape before moving on to the next step. It sounds like somehow the anti theft system was activated and drained the battery. Tinted tail lights are becoming increasingly popular as they are a fun and easy way of personalizing your car's appearance. Make sure to get in all the nooks and crannies. Modifying Modifying the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) navigation system of your Acura or Honda vehicle with aftermarket software is an easy way to add additional customization features to the already-installed system. For a dark, smoky appearance, two coats should be applied. Finally, take a piece of 2000 grit sandpaper and sand the lights a final time, using smooth, firm strokes. If you try to simply peel it off, it will come off like an evil bar code sticker. When you have most the tint in place, peel off the upper protective layer. The car that you drive is a reflection on your personality. Make sure to start with the lights that are flatter. Find out about any laws you may be breaking by referring to a local police department or the Internet before you make any changes to your rear lights. It's best to work with a clean, smooth surface. The most expensive option is to replace your tail lights with aftermarket blacked-out tail lights. Use the spray bottle to wet the tail light surface. Repeat for the second tail light, making sure the sanding appears even before proceeding to the next step. It can be done for about $40.00 depending on what tools you already have. Step 2: Mist the tail light with water from your spray bottle. As the the film completely drys the bumps reduce in appearance. (You can also. Step 10: Scuff the tinted spray with sandpaper. Is it possible for me to tint a 2002 Mazda's taillights? Step 6: Prep the tail light surface. You can even find some film tint that's pre-cut to fit certain car models, so if you have a popular type of car, look out for those. Carefully work the heat back and forth until the film softens. You can apply a uniform clear coat to the whole lens. Test your spray can before spraying the lights. Step 7: Mask the reverse lights. YourMechanic All rights reserved. This is what you see in the first picture. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Step 7: Trim the excess tint film. headlight tinting fog 75cm tint smoke tail wrap vinyl lights dark film Connect the tail light back onto the wiring harness and snugly fit the tail light back onto the car. Clean the lights to ensure there is no debris. Repeat this process with 1000-grit sandpaper and let the lights air dry. Step 12: Polish the finish. 4 years ago. Put a small quarter-sized dab of polish on a clean cloth. About: Awesome Gear I've designed myself. You may have to make relief cuts in the corners. Please be aware that tinting your tail lights may increase your risk of getting pulled over as it is a potential safety issue. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. When you are done, let the lights stand for 20 to 30 minutes until they are dry to the touch. When your car makes noise when turning, take notes or record the specific sounds, collect as much data as you can, and then seek help with a mechanic. After you remove the first light, repeat the Steps 1-4 on the other tail light. Once the first layer of tint is dry, you can apply a second layer of tint. The rear brake light on the right uses the same power as the one on the left. Stickers stick best when surfaces are clean. Use the heat gun at the edges to warm the tint film and make it pliable. A good tip when using the sandpaper is to let it soak in some water before sanding - this will make the paper more flexible and easier to use. Apply whatever "cleaner" you desire and use the sandpaper to clear away the spray. Give the lights a wipe down with some cleaning product - such as rubbing alcohol, gasoline, or window cleaner - and allow the lights to dry. Tinting your tail lights with a tinting spray requires a steady hand and your undivided attention. Here's how to check if youre legally allowed to tint, and if so, how to apply the tint, as well as how to remove the tint if you have second thoughts down the road. No phone calls. Keep a windex wet paper towel over your squeegee to prevent scratching through out the application. With the 2,000-grit sandpaper, very lightly scuff the clear coat until it is uniformly hazy over the whole lens. Thank goodness for defensive driving. Then, spray the lights with a spray-on tint using a back and forth motion to apply an even layer. Otherwise you have to do like I did and hold the heat gun with your chin. Step 2: Install the aftermarket tail lights. From keeping your car for the long haul to finding lower rates from your insurer, here are some helpful tips for how to save on car expenses. You can also tint your tail lights using tint film. Once your tail lights are removed, use the masking tape to mark off the housing (except the lens itself) and the reverse light portion. % of people told us that this article helped them. Be careful not to scratch the tint by covering the squeegee with a paper towel. Once your lights are clean you can pre-cut your pieces. When you are done, the taillights should have a light, hazy finish. https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/r/car-projects/how-to-replace-taillights, http://www.silveradosierra.com/how-to-articles/how-to-tint-your-tail-lights-using-vht-nite-shades-t1372.html, http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/lighting/84694-how-tinting-tail-lights-right-way-pics.html, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXSEw5QbPPM, http://www.lamin-x.com/Lamin-x-Installation-Videos-s/1863.htm, http://store.ijdmtoy.com/Smoke-Tail-Light-Headlight-Black-Out-Tint-Vinyl-Sheet-Film-a/237.htm, http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-tint-your-cars-taillights-63581.html, https://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1586_27094-73839--,00.html#equipment. It is a better idea to do your work in the garage or a blocked off area rather than in the driveway or yard. Finally, reinstall the tail lights. From Bodie, California to spooky Spokane, South Dakota, the best ghost towns to visit on a road trip are hidden in plain sight across the country. films Finish off with another layer of WD and a rag and they should shine and be clear again. Wipe the polished finish clean with a new cloth. Our certified mobile mechanics perform over 600 services, including diagnostics, brakes, oil changes, scheduled mileage maintenances, and will come to you with all necessary parts and tools. Film tint is a little trickier to get the hang of, but will give more professional results and does not require removal of the light. Re-wet the light before continuing to sand. Spray the light in long passes, starting to spray before the light and stopping after youve passed over the whole light. Soak the 2,000-grit sandpaper in the water and soap while you wash the tail lights. Lay a thin but full coverage over the whole tail light. Step 5: Remove water and air bubbles from under the tint with the vinyl squeegee. Tinting your tail lights can add style to your car and give it a brand new look and feel. In the third picture you can see it starting to come along. Step 13: Install the tinted tail lights back onto the car. Quotes from 50+ insurance companies. In others you have to shrink it together. You will knock some dust out of the first ones as you work with them. Step 4: Remove the tail light.Slide the tail light rearward by using your hands or by using a flat head screwdriver to prop the light open. This will provide you with the extra light you need for reversing at night, but will not ruin the effect of your tinted taillights. Not using any applicator fluid at all will make it difficult remove air bubbles and contour the film. All you need are a few simple instructions and some easy-to-find materials you can purchase at a hardware store. You will also need a clean, dustless environment to apply the tint or your finish will be permanently marred by dust and lint settling into the drying tint. Apply light, complete coats to the tail lights with each pass. Your tinted aftermarket tail lights should be a direct fit for your vehicles model and year. For these lights I removed the upper film right away. Although it is not difficult to tint your tail lights, the process can be time-consuming, so wait until you have a full day to dedicate to this project. Once the film is placed up to the edges, use your thumb nail to push the tint into any seams. Use a squeegee or credit card to smooth out any air bubbles, then trim any excess film off the tail light carefully using your utility knife. Be extremely careful if you do this. Heat the film up evenly in the section which has the most contour. In this case it's the corner of the light. When you're done, wipe the taillight clean and allow it to dry. Car modification is a big business. Step 1: Remove your current tail lights. If this edge is dirty the film will want to pop up. Step 3: Remove the protective layer from the tint film. In. First, pop your trunk and peel back the carpet backing behind your tail lights. Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. Do both tail lights at the same time so they are uniform. Work in a well-ventilated area (outside, preferably) and apply the spray in long sweeps. Keep reading the article if you want to learn how to use a spray tint on your tail lights! If you have any suborn bubbles, you can make a tiny prick in the film and push them out through the hole you just made. Using a simple third-party computer program and a DVD-ROM TV displays (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-purchase-a-dual-monitor-dvd-system-for-your-car) mounted in your vehicle can entertain passengers while you travel short distances across town or long distances across the country, allowing them to play games, watch movies, or even view satellite TV with the appropriate equipment. No cartinted tail lights or notis any use without the right car insurance. As the tint heats up, you should be able to peel it away without leaving adhesive residue behind. owners, Over 25,000 topics, from beginner tips to technical In the same manner as the tinting spray, apply clear coat to the tail light. If you are getting brake lights on the left side but not on the right, then you will need to test the right repairing electrical issues with your lights. This provides better protection for the spray tinting. I've always wanted a pet monkey, but I'm not sure what the laws are in my state. Step 3: Disconnect the tail light wiring harness. When you are happy with the level of tinting, leave the lights outside in the sun to cure for 45 minutes to an hour. If you notice places on the surface of the taillights that appear to be pocked, just spend extra time on them with the wet sandpaper. Members save $872/year. Do the same process as you move onto the corner lights. costs, Optimize fleet uptime and compliance via mobile vehicle repairs, Partner with us to simplify and scale fleet maintenance, The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. You can get one for about 20 bucks from places like Bed Bath and Beyond. Remove the heat and let the film cool off while you hold it in place. Use ONLY tinting spray. This step is optional but will give you a better idea of what your finished tail lights will look like. If you are on a budget and still want to create a personal identity with your car, you can do so by tinting your tail lights yourself. Out in the open, weather and windblown sand or dirt can hinder your progress. If you ever want to remove the tint (whether you applied film or spray), the process is uncomplicated. This article has been viewed 409,530 times. Use a plastic razor and some WD-40. Can I use a simple enamel spray paint? Yes, you can. This will appear as little specs of bunched up goo. In some areas you will have to stretch the film to fit. If you do your tail lights in the right order, you will have the practice you need to be satisfied with the end result. After you have gone around the entire light, use a razor blade to trim off the excess. After the lights are cleaned, wet the tail lights, and lightly sand the tail light surface with the wet sandpaper. The film starts out flat but its going on a curved surface. When finished, allow the clear coat on the tail lights to dry overnight. Use the 800 grit sandpaper, then the 1000 grit sandpaper, followed by the 2000 grit sandpaper. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. wikiHow is a wiki, similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. Install a TV tuner to the monitor in your car so passengers can watch TV on the road. Hold the film against the tail light to make sure the size is right. Be sure to check your local laws. When the light is clean, you can then apply the spray. It will be easier if you get the pre-cut kit for your specific model vehicle. If you have a helper this is the time to use them. By using our site, you agree to our. To find the right rate for you, try. Smooth the film over the edges and hold it there. Show cars look amazing partly because theyre not legally allowed to drive on public roads and can be modified in extreme ways with things like a dark tint on the tail lights. How to Choose a Lift for Your Jeep Wrangler, How to Modify the Alpine Navigation in an Acura or Honda, How to Choose the Best In-Vehicle TV Display Size, With car off, exterior and interior lights start flashing. guides, Check cars for recalls, common issues & maintenance wikiHow is a wiki, similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. What one needs to do is upgrade the light to LEDs, then it will be much brighter. You may have already needed a heat gun just to get to this point. This article has been viewed 409,530 times. Reply Enamel based spray paints will not allow light to pass through and will destroy the lens of your light. Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST. Spray both the tail light surface and the sticky side of the tint with Windex. Tinting with adhesive film can be difficult. Where can I buy pink windshield wipers? There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Its always smart to have an "exit strategy" when modifying a car, especially if you decide to sell it. Remove the masking tape from the reverse light section and lightly sand that area as well. This will vary by car, but most are pretty straightforward: Pull the entire housing away from the body of the car. Try locking all of the doors from the inside and close them. Yup, true. Companies produce and sell billions of dollars of car accessories every year including: Car accessories come in varying qualities and styles and its easy to spend thousands of dollars customizing your car with new parts to make it look uniquely yours. Make sure to tape off the body of the car, or remove the headlights so you dont get any paint thinner/cleaner on the body. Learn more baout how we make money, review our. Then, use a utility knife to cut pieces of tint film to the shape of your tail lights. The removal procedure for the tail light is generally the same for every car, but some models may have slight differences. Cut away the excess to match the contours of your lights. While there may be no federal restrictions on tinted tail lights, every motor vehicle is subject to state laws, which do vary and may dictate the amount of light output required from your tinted taillight. Mask the clear section for the reverse lights with masking tape. Why don't my tail lights light up when I press on the brake pedal? I think in many places the tinting any of the vehicle's lights is illegal since it reduces the lumen output of the light fixture. No long forms. Learn more For many people, their car is more than just a means of transportation; it is also a reflection of their personality. I suggest checking the fuses to the brake light fuse. Re-installation of the tail lights is the reverse process as the removal in Step 1. headlights tinting Sometimes, you may encounter problems with your tail lights functionality. One way to tint your tail lights is to spray tint them. The tint will not roll over the edges until you form it with a heat gun. How to remove film from tinted tail lights? I want to make the most of my living space, and Ive just realized our garage could be a great playroom for our kids. If not, (aside from the ideal tinting spray) what kind of spray paint can I use? So why do all that extra work when Jerry can do it better? Use the sharp utility knife to trim the excess tint film off so that the film only covers the tail lights. The tail light should now be off of the car. Start by removing the layer which exposes the sticky side. The best way to spray tint tail lights is to remove them. Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve. Please see our. Ensure that sandpaper is wet at all times when you are using it. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Tint-Tail-Lights-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Tint-Tail-Lights-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Tint-Tail-Lights-Step-1.jpg\/aid1371397-v4-728px-Tint-Tail-Lights-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"