Auto Optics – Headlights and Tail Lights — Page 13

The “Automotive Lighting” section features vehicle-specific lighting: headlamps, tail lights (“stops”), fog lights, daytime running lights, turn-signal repeaters, and headlight protectors. Every item is made for a specific body type and production years, so the vehicle model and generation are always listed in the product title. Brands include GBT, 1234 Upgrade, GT Tuning, GPlast, Libao, EGR, and Omsa Line, as well as selected original headlights.

What you’ll find in this section

• Headlights — sets in original (OEM) design, facelift and LED headlights, including versions styled like a newer body revision, for example V-class or Maybach-style design for Mercedes Vito W447.
• Tail lights — LED tail lights, facelift sets (LCI design for BMW 5 F10, GX-type for Prado 150), tinted Black and Dark versions, plus rear reflectors.
• Fog lights — fog lamps for the factory mounting location on passenger cars and vans, some already with an LED bulb, as well as DRL daytime running lights.
• Turn signal repeaters — fender side indicators, mirror indicators, and corner lights.
• Headlight protectors — clear EGR Airplex polycarbonate covers that mount in the factory locations and take the impact from stones and road grime.

How to choose lighting for your vehicle

1. Select the make and model in the filter. Headlights and tail lights are built to match the geometry of the factory mounting points, so optics from a different body or version won’t fit even if they look similar.
2. Match the years, facelift, and the lighting currently installed. For the same body there are often separate items for pre- and post-facelift versions — the years are shown in the title. The model year or VIN alone may not be enough: in a changeover year and after a bumper or headlight swap, use the photos and compare them to the parts currently on your vehicle.
3. Check what exactly is LED. On some tail lights, only the brake and position lights are LED, while the turn signals and reverse light still use a standard bulb — this is specified in the specs. An LED strip or a replaceable LED bulb doesn’t make the whole unit Full LED, and “Black” or “Dark” in the title describes the housing or lens color, not the light technology. Bulbs are selected in the car bulbs section.
4. Pay attention to quantity and what’s included. Most headlights and tail lights are sold as a 2-piece set: left and right are not interchangeable. A quarter-panel tail lamp and the section on the trunk lid are different parts. Bulbs, control units, trims, and wiring are not always included — the exact contents are shown in the “Package contents” field.

Original, OEM-style, or tuning

Original lighting comes under the vehicle manufacturer’s brand and costs significantly more than alternatives; in this section it’s marked “Original”, and used headlights are additionally marked “Used”. OEM-style, or “like original”, is an aftermarket part that visually replicates the factory optics. Facelift and tuning headlights change the vehicle’s appearance: they add lighting styled like a newer body revision or a tinted finish. Projector lenses, LED, electric leveling, and adaptive cornering light are separate features, and an aftermarket unit doesn’t always include them. If your vehicle has these functions and you want to keep them, check the description of the specific product.

Installation and wiring

Vehicle-specific headlights and DRLs typically fit into the factory locations and connect plug-and-play without rewiring. If the vehicle is switching from halogen or xenon to LED headlights, an electronic “decoder” may be required — a CANBUS adapter that eliminates bulb-check errors; it’s best to have the wiring done by an auto electrician experienced with LED optics. EU and US versions can differ in indicator color and connectors: for most vehicles, no reprogramming is needed, but some models may require it. Fog lights must match the actual bumper: openings, frames, and blanking plates must line up; on vehicles without factory fog lights, you may also need a wiring kit with a switch. After installing headlights, check and adjust the beam pattern if necessary so you don’t dazzle oncoming traffic. Replace tail lights in pairs: the new unit may differ from the old one in shade and brightness.

Popular models

The largest selection in this section is for SUVs and vans: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 150 lighting, Land Cruiser 200, Range Rover L322, Nissan Patrol Y61, Mercedes G-class W463, and Mercedes Vito W447. To complete the look, see headlight covers, headlight eyelids (also called “eyebrows”), and headlight polishes.

Description prepared with the help of AI based on analysis of over 1 million phone calls between DD Tuning managers and customers, plus the company knowledge base. We compiled the most frequently asked customer questions and answers proven in practice.