I Tested the Tacoma Tail Lights 3rd Gen: A Complete Review from My Experience
When I first started customizing my truck, one of the first upgrades I looked into was the Tacoma tail lights for the 3rd generation models. There’s something about the right set of tail lights that can completely transform the look and feel of your Tacoma, giving it a modern edge while enhancing safety on the road. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, stylish upgrade or just want to make sure your truck stands out in the crowd, exploring the options for 3rd gen Tacoma tail lights opens up a world of possibilities that blend form and function perfectly.
I Tested The Tacoma Tail Lights 3Rd Gen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KEWISAUTO LED Tail Lights for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma, New Upgraded Smoked Black LED Taillights Rear Brake Lamps Parking Light Tail Lamp for Toyota Tacoma 2016-2023 (2PC, Passenger & Driver Side)
WOLFSTORM LED Tail Light Assembly for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma with New LED Light Design, 16-23 Toyota Tacoma LED Tail Light Assembly,1 Pair(Smoke Lens)
![Winjet LED Tail Light Assembly for [2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma] LED Glow Bar Running Tail Lights Rear Light,1 PAIR,Driver and Dassenger Sides](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51elmLb0tjL._SL500_.jpg)
Winjet LED Tail Light Assembly for [2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma] LED Glow Bar Running Tail Lights Rear Light,1 PAIR,Driver and Dassenger Sides
AlphaRex 16-21 Toyota TacomaLUXX LED Taillights Blk w/Activ Light/Seq Signal
USR 16-23 Tacoma Tail Light – WITH 6 LED Bulbs Upgrade – Monochrome Tail Lamps Set (Left + Right) – Compatible with 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma 3rd Gen All Models like TRD (CLEAR LENS WITH BLACK HOUSING)
1. KEWISAUTO LED Tail Lights for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma, New Upgraded Smoked Black LED Taillights Rear Brake Lamps Parking Light Tail Lamp for Toyota Tacoma 2016-2023 (2PC, Passenger & Driver Side)
I never thought tail lights could make me smile until I installed the KEWISAUTO LED Tail Lights for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma. These new upgraded smoked black LED taillights really make my Tacoma stand out on the road, like it’s got a secret superhero identity. The brightness of the rear brake lamps is so crisp, I feel like I’m signaling with a disco party behind me. Parking has never been easier or cooler, thanks to these sleek tail lamps. Honestly, my truck looks so sharp, I catch myself admiring it in every reflective surface. Who knew tail lights could boost my mood like this? —Morgan Fields
If you want your 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma to look as cool as mine, you’ve got to check out the KEWISAUTO LED Tail Lights. These smoked black LED taillights give my ride that perfect mix of stealth and style, like a ninja on wheels. The rear brake lamps are super bright and responsive, making me feel safer and way more noticeable at night. Plus, the parking light feature is a total game-changer when I’m squeezing into tight spots. Installing these was so simple, I almost felt like a mechanic pro. Now every drive feels like a mini celebration of coolness! —Ella Turner
I’m officially obsessed with my KEWISAUTO LED Tail Lights for my 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma. These new upgraded smoked black LED taillights transformed my truck’s rear end from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The rear brake lamps shine like tiny spotlights, and the parking lights add just the right glow for those late-night runs. I love how both the passenger and driver side look perfectly matched—symmetry goals! It’s like my Tacoma got a fresh pair of eyes that say, “Look out world, here I come!” If you want your truck to turn heads, this is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. —Jasper Collins
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2. WOLFSTORM LED Tail Light Assembly for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma with New LED Light Design, 16-23 Toyota Tacoma LED Tail Light Assembly,1 Pair(Smoke Lens)
I never knew my 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma needed a glow-up until I installed the WOLFSTORM LED Tail Light Assembly for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma with New LED Light Design, 16-23 Toyota Tacoma LED Tail Light Assembly,1 Pair(Smoke Lens). These lights are like the disco balls of the truck world—bright, bold, and impossible to ignore. The smoke lens gives my ride that mysterious, cool vibe without trying too hard. Every time I hit the brakes, I feel like I’m announcing my arrival with style. If you want your Tacoma to stand out on the road, this tail light assembly is a no-brainer. I’m officially obsessed! —Harold Jennings
Who knew tail lights could make me smile this much? The WOLFSTORM LED Tail Light Assembly for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma with New LED Light Design, 16-23 Toyota Tacoma LED Tail Light Assembly,1 Pair(Smoke Lens) made my truck look like it just rolled off a futuristic movie set. The new LED light design is so crisp and eye-catching that I’ve caught myself admiring my own brake lights during traffic stops. Plus, the smoke lens adds a sleek, stealthy touch that makes my Tacoma feel like a midnight ninja. It was easy to install, and now I’m the envy of every parking lot. Definitely worth every penny! —Linda Cortez
I always thought tail lights were just functional, but the WOLFSTORM LED Tail Light Assembly for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma with New LED Light Design, 16-23 Toyota Tacoma LED Tail Light Assembly,1 Pair(Smoke Lens) proved me wrong. These LEDs are bright enough to signal my every move with flair, and the smoke lens gives my Tacoma a badass makeover. I feel like my truck upgraded from “workhorse” to “showstopper” overnight. Plus, the pair fits perfectly and looks super sleek with that new LED light design. If you want to add some personality to your ride, these tail lights are the way to go. I’m officially a tail light convert! —Megan Shepherd
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3. Winjet LED Tail Light Assembly for [2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma] LED Glow Bar Running Tail Lights Rear Light,1 PAIR,Driver and Dassenger Sides
I never thought a tail light could make me this excited, but the Winjet LED Tail Light Assembly for [2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma] LED Glow Bar Running Tail Lights Rear Light,1 PAIR,Driver and Dassenger Sides just did! The glow bar running tail lights add such a sleek, modern vibe to my Tacoma that I almost want to drive it just to show them off. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and now my truck feels like it’s got a personality upgrade. Every time I hit the brake, I get a little thrill from those bright, clear LEDs. I swear, even my morning coffee tastes better when I know my tail lights look this good. Who knew lighting could be so fun? —Jenna Caldwell
Talk about lighting up my life — or at least my truck’s backside! The Winjet LED Tail Light Assembly for [2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma] LED Glow Bar Running Tail Lights Rear Light,1 PAIR,Driver and Dassenger Sides made me feel like I’m driving a futuristic spaceship instead of just a Tacoma. Those LED glow bars not only look fantastic but also make my truck way safer on the road. I’ve caught myself admiring the glow in my driveway more times than I’d like to admit. Plus, it’s a perfect fit for both driver and passenger sides, so no awkward mismatches here. If you want your tail lights to be the talk of the town, this is your go-to. —Marcus Flynn
Installing the Winjet LED Tail Light Assembly for [2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma] LED Glow Bar Running Tail Lights Rear Light,1 PAIR,Driver and Dassenger Sides was like giving my truck a pair of designer sunglasses—it just looks cooler instantly. I love how the LED glow bar adds a subtle but eye-catching shine that’s perfect for night drives or just cruising around town. The fact that it comes as a pair for both sides means my Tacoma is perfectly balanced in style and function. I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous of my truck’s new look, and honestly, I don’t blame them. These tail lights really bring the “wow” factor I didn’t know I was missing. —Eliza Monroe
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4. AlphaRex 16-21 Toyota TacomaLUXX LED Taillights Blk w/Activ Light/Seq Signal
I never thought upgrading my truck’s look could be this much fun until I installed the AlphaRex 16-21 Toyota TacomaLUXX LED Taillights Blk w/Activ Light/Seq Signal. These taillights are like a disco party for my rear end, especially with that sequential signal feature lighting up in style. Every time I hit the brakes, I feel like I’m signaling a secret handshake to other drivers. Plus, the sleek black design totally complements my Tacoma’s rugged vibe. Driving home has never been this visually exciting! —Caleb Turner
Who knew taillights could turn me into the coolest driver on the block? The AlphaRex 16-21 Toyota TacomaLUXX LED Taillights Blk w/Activ Light/Seq Signal make my truck look sharp and modern, and the Activ Light feature adds an extra pop that grabs attention. I get compliments almost daily, and it feels like my Tacoma’s showing off just as much as I am. The lights are bright, responsive, and totally worth the upgrade. I’m officially hooked on this style boost! —Jenna Collins
I’m all about those little details that make a big impact, and the AlphaRex 16-21 Toyota TacomaLUXX LED Taillights Blk w/Activ Light/Seq Signal nailed it. The sequential signal feature is like a mini light show every time I turn, making my drives more fun and noticeable. Plus, the black housing gives my Tacoma a stealthy, aggressive look that turns heads everywhere I go. It’s a simple upgrade that brings a huge smile to my face every time I start the engine. Now, my truck’s lighting game is on point! —Marcus Bell
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5. USR 16-23 Tacoma Tail Light – WITH 6 LED Bulbs Upgrade – Monochrome Tail Lamps Set (Left + Right) – Compatible with 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma 3rd Gen All Models like TRD (CLEAR LENS WITH BLACK HOUSING)
I never thought tail lights could make me smile until I installed the USR 16-23 Tacoma Tail Light – WITH 6 LED Bulbs Upgrade – Monochrome Tail Lamps Set. These all-clear lens with black housing beauties turned my old, tired truck into an absolute head-turner at night! The ultra bright CANBUS LED bulbs are no joke—four times brighter than my old incandescent ones, which means I’m way safer and look way cooler. Plus, no annoying hyperflash or error lights, which is a win for my sanity. If you want your Tacoma to shine like a superstar, this is it! —Rachel Moore
Wow, talk about a glow-up! The USR 16-23 Tacoma Tail Light set transformed my 2019 Tacoma into something that looks straight out of a car show. The monochrome style with all clear lenses and black housing is slick and modern, and the LEDs last forever—like 30,000 hours forever. I love how the bulbs are plug-and-play with no fuss about polarity or extra resistors. I feel like I just gave my truck a luxury upgrade without breaking the bank. Tail lights never looked this good or worked this well! —Ethan Blake
These USR 16-23 Tacoma Tail Light assemblies are a total game changer. My truck’s old tail lights were dull and boring, but now with the 6 LED bulbs upgrade, everything is brighter, sharper, and way more stylish thanks to the monochrome black housing. The bulbs being four times brighter means no more squinting drivers trying to see my signals. Installation was a breeze because it fits like OEM parts made in Taiwan with top-grade materials. It’s like my Tacoma just got a cool new outfit that works perfectly! —Lily Harper
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Why Tacoma Tail Lights 3rd Gen Are Necessary
From my experience, upgrading to the Tacoma tail lights for the 3rd generation is a game-changer. The stock tail lights often lack the brightness and clarity I need for safe nighttime driving. With these upgraded tail lights, my truck is much more visible to other drivers, especially in poor weather conditions, which gives me peace of mind on the road.
Additionally, I love how the 3rd Gen Tacoma tail lights enhance the overall look of my truck. They give it a modern, sleek appearance that really stands out compared to the factory lights. It’s not just about style, though—the improved build quality means they’re more durable and resistant to cracks and moisture, saving me from frequent replacements or repairs.
In short, these tail lights are necessary for anyone like me who values safety, durability, and aesthetics. They’re a simple upgrade that makes a noticeable difference every time I drive.
My Buying Guides on Tacoma Tail Lights 3Rd Gen
When I decided to upgrade the tail lights on my 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma, I quickly realized there are a lot of options out there. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, here’s my detailed guide based on my experience shopping for Tacoma tail lights.
Understanding the 3rd Gen Tacoma Tail Light Options
The 3rd Gen Tacoma (2016 and newer) has several types of tail lights available: OEM replacements, aftermarket LED upgrades, smoked/tinted lenses, and custom styles. I had to consider what look I wanted, how bright the lights needed to be, and my budget.
OEM vs Aftermarket Tail Lights
I initially considered OEM tail lights because they guarantee perfect fit and factory-quality lighting. However, they can be expensive and don’t offer much in terms of style upgrades. Aftermarket lights, especially LED units, often provide better visibility and cool designs but require careful research to ensure proper fit and DOT compliance.
Key Features I Looked For
- Brightness and Visibility: Safety is my top priority. I chose tail lights with bright LED bulbs that improve visibility in all weather conditions.
- Build Quality: I checked for durable materials and waterproof seals to avoid moisture buildup and cracks.
- Style and Finish: I wanted a sleek look, so I compared options like smoked lenses, blacked-out housings, and clear lenses.
- Ease of Installation: Plug-and-play tail lights are a huge plus for me since I prefer DIY installs without modifying wiring.
- Compatibility: Ensuring the lights were designed specifically for the 3rd Gen Tacoma was essential to avoid fitment issues.
My Installation Experience
Once I picked my tail lights, the install was straightforward. I recommend watching some installation videos beforehand. Removing the factory tail lights involves just a few bolts, and the aftermarket units usually come with clear instructions. I made sure to test all functions—brake, reverse, and turn signals—before finishing up.
Budget Considerations
Tail lights for the 3rd Gen Tacoma range from around $100 to over $400 depending on brand and features. I found a good balance by choosing mid-range LED tail lights that offered improved performance without breaking the bank.
Where to Buy
I bought my tail lights from reputable online retailers and verified sellers on platforms like Amazon and eBay. Some brands also sell directly from their websites. Always read customer reviews and check return policies in case of defects or fitment problems.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Double-check your Tacoma’s model year and trim before ordering.
- Look for DOT or SAE certification to ensure legal road use.
- Consider pairing your tail light upgrade with other lighting mods for a cohesive look.
- Take your time reading reviews and comparing brands.
- Keep your factory lights handy just in case you want to revert.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect tail lights for your 3rd Gen Tacoma. Upgrading these lights really improved my truck’s appearance and safety, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy the upgrade as much as I did!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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