Tail light covers, also known as lens tints or overlays, make a vehicle’s rear lights look different. Many car lovers wonder if these modifications are legal. It’s important to know about traffic safety regulations to make sure these changes are allowed in different US states.
Certain federal standards require vehicle light alterations to follow safety rules. But, laws in various states may add extra rules about color and how see-through they are. Learning about these legal requirements for car modifications is key. It helps you avoid tickets, fines, and making the road unsafe.
Understanding Tail Light Covers
Tail light covers add style and protect your vehicle’s tail lights. It’s important to know the types and rules for using them. This ensures you stay within the law.
What Are Tail Light Covers?
Tail light covers can either go over or replace your car’s tail light lenses. They come in tinted versions that change the light’s color and brightness. Clear versions protect without altering light. Remember to check if they meet aftermarket car accessories laws to avoid fines.
Types of Tail Light Covers
There are different tail light covers you can use, but you must follow vehicle modification legality. Let’s look at them:
- Tinted Covers: These adjust light color and brightness. In Illinois, for tinting, the light must stay bright enough, with a minimum of 50% Visible Light Transmission (VLT).
- Clear Covers: These protect your lights without changing the light they emit. In Illinois, they must make red light visible from 500 feet away.
- Blackout Covers: They give your lights a dark look but are not legal anywhere in the U.S. They reduce light visibility too much.
Choose tail light covers that look good and follow the law. Different states have their own rules for light visibility and color. For instance, while some states want lights visible from 1,000 feet, Illinois requires 500 feet visibility. This matches the rules for aftermarket car accessories laws.
| State | Visibility Requirement | Fine Range |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 500 feet | $75-$500 |
| California | 1,000 feet | $100-$200 |
| Texas | 500 feet | $25-$200 |
Not following tail light rules can lead to big fines. Make sure your tail light mods are legal in your state. This keeps your car safe and avoids tickets.
The Purpose of Tail Light Covers
Tail light covers play an important role in cars today. They look good and protect, fitting both style and safety needs. Knowing about them helps you follow automotive lighting regulations and understand auto parts legality.
Aesthetic Appeal
Many people get tail light covers for the cool look they give cars. They can make your car appear more stylish. It’s a way to show your individual taste and make your car unique. But, it’s important to make sure these changes follow the law. For example, covers that are too dark might be banned because they can hide your lights, which is against the rules in all states.
Protection from Damage
Tail light covers do more than just look good; they also protect your lights. They keep your tail lights safe from bad weather, flying debris, and minor hits that can harm them. This protection keeps your lights working well for longer. This way, your tail lights will meet the auto parts legality standards.
However, your tail lights must still be seen clearly from certain distances. This distance can be from 500 to 1,000 feet and varies by state. In places like Washington, they must be seen from 1,000 feet away. So, when choosing tail light covers, make sure they don’t mess with the light’s color or how well it can be seen.
Using tail light covers wisely means you can have a nice-looking car without giving up safety. Always check that your changes are okay with both federal and state rules. This keeps you out of trouble and ensures everyone on the road is safe.
Federal Regulations on Tail Light Covers
Tail light covers must follow strict automotive lighting laws. These laws make sure changes stick to federal rules. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108 sets the rules for vehicle lighting. It keeps safety and visibility at the forefront.
National Standards for Vehicle Lighting
Starting March 7, 1989, all vehicle lights have to meet set standards from FMVSS No. 108. This includes cars made before this date too. They can follow the old rules or part 571 of this title. This rule covers all important vehicle lights.
For commercial vehicles, the law requires:
- 2 tail lamps (one on each side of the vertical centerline) emitting red light
- 2 stop lamps (one on each side of the vertical centerline) also emitting red light
- Headlamps that emit white light, positioned at a height of 22 to 54 inches
- Amber turn signal lamps located at the front
All lights must be put in the right spot and height. This makes sure they’re visible and safe.
Compliance with Federal Laws
You must follow the color rules set by FMVSS No. 108. For example, tail lamps have to glow red. Clear lenses with red bulbs that don’t meet SAE standard J585e (September 1977) are not allowed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can fine or recall if these rules aren’t followed.
Visibility rules got stricter to help drivers see better. Changes to FMVSS No. 108 mean better visibility for key lights. Since September 1, 2011, for smaller vehicles, and September 1, 2014, for larger ones, following these rules is a must. This makes driving safer for everyone.
Keeping your vehicle’s lights in line with federal regulations is important. If you don’t, you could face big fines or have your car recalled.
State-Specific Laws on Tail Light Covers
Federal laws provide a base for vehicle lighting, but states have their own tail light rules. It’s vital to know state-specific traffic laws to stay out of trouble.
Common Regulations Across States
States demand certain visibility for tail lights to keep roads safe. For example, MCL 257.686 states tail lamps must be seen from 500 feet away. And MCL 257.697 says brake lights should shine red or amber from 100 feet, even during daytime. Smoked or dark covers are often banned if they hinder these visibility rules.
Notable Exceptions and Restrictions
Some states have strict or unique tail light tint rules. Michigan is known for being strict. For example, a Colorado Supreme Court case showed some leeway in light colors, but visibility must be met. This indicates that even if lights are not red, their redness must be clear according to Colorado law.
States also set rules on how far lights must be seen and on neon lighting. In Michigan, MCL 257.698(4) bans neon underbody lights on highways unless they’re not lit or covered.
| State | Laws on Tail Light Tinting | Notable Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan | MCL 257.686 and MCL 257.697 | No smoked tail lights if visibility is compromised |
| Ohio | Compliance with general visibility laws | UTVs require DOT-approved tail lights |
| Montana | State traffic laws must be observed | No specific tint restrictions, but must maintain visibility |
| Colorado | Red must be visible alongside any other colors | Supports leniency provided compliance |
Make sure to check your local laws to avoid fines or safety risks. Understanding these regulations helps you keep your tail lights legal and functional.
Potential Consequences of Illegal Tail Light Covers
Using tail light covers that aren’t allowed can lead to big problems. This includes losing money and putting safety at risk. It’s important to know what could go wrong. This way, you can avoid extra costs and make the roads safer for everyone.
Fines and Penalties
If your tail light covers don’t follow the rules, you could end up paying fines. In places like California and New York, the rules are very strict. Your lights need to let through at least half the light they produce, or you might get a ticket. Also, if your car doesn’t pass the safety check because of your tail lights, you could face more trouble.
Implications for Vehicle Safety
Not following the rules for tail light covers is also a big safety issue. If your covers are too dark, it can be hard for others to see your car in low light. The best tail light tints let through 70% to 80% of the light. This makes sure your lights are bright enough to be seen clearly.
To keep from getting tickets and to keep safe on the road, follow the tail light rules. This way, you keep yourself and other drivers safe.
How to Choose Legal Tail Light Covers
When picking legal tail light covers, make sure they follow federal and state laws. It’s important to look at certain things to help you choose. This way, you stay legal while enjoying new accessories.
Key Features to Look For
One key thing to check is if the tail lights shine red. Many states say tail lights must be red. For instance, in Illinois, they must be seen from 500 feet away. Virginia has similar rules for safety and visibility.
The quality and durability of the material are vital. You want covers that last and can handle bad weather. They must also fit right so they don’t block the light or break any rules.
Lastly, see if the product follows safety standards clearly. Top brands will tell you if they meet federal and state rules. This makes it easier to pick the right product without worrying about legality.
Recommended Brands and Products
Some top brands for legal tail light covers include Auto Ventshade, WeatherTech, and Husky Liners. They are known for following the rules and offering high-quality products. They also give clear details about legality and fitting different car models.
Below is a table comparing recommended auto accessories to help you choose wisely.
| Brand | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Ventshade | Tail Shades Blackout Taillight Covers | High-quality material, compliance with federal standards, easy installation |
| WeatherTech | Light Guards | Durable, red color output, fits a variety of models |
| Husky Liners | Custom Molded Tail Light Covers | Custom fit, clear visibility, UV protection |
Tips for Installing Tail Light Covers
Installing tail light covers right is key for safety and following the law. Make sure the cover doesn’t change the light’s brightness or color. This helps other drivers see your car clearly from 500 to 1,000 feet away, as required by law.
Proper Installation Techniques
First, pick a tail light cover that meets your local laws. Clean the tail light well to get rid of any dirt. Choosing quality covers, like those with 3M™ double-sided acrylic foam tape, helps them stick better.
Place the cover carefully and press down to make it stick well. Stay away from dark covers like smoke, carbon, or black. They can make your lights too dim for legal street use.
Maintenance Recommendations
Keeping up with maintenance is crucial for car mods. Look over your tail light covers often for any wear or fogging from the weather. Cleaning them regularly stops dirt build-up and keeps them working right.
Polycarbonate plastic, often used in these covers, can get foggy from sunlight. Cleaning them with the right plastic cleaner keeps them clear and effective. Following local and national laws keeps you safe on the road. Tail lights must shine red light.
Staying on top of vehicle modifications makes your car look good and keeps you within safety rules. Regular checks and proper installation save you from fines and dangers while driving.
Hey there, I’m Alex Hanson and I’m passionate about all things covers! Whether you’re looking for a car seat cover to protect your vehicle or an oven cover to keep your kitchen clean, I’m here to help. With years of experience in the industry, I have plenty of knowledge and insights to share with my readers. So, if you care about protecting your belongings and making them look their best, you’re encouraged to read my blog as I explore the perfect cover for every need.