DEPO Smoke LED Tail Light Installation for the FZJ80
Having been in the process of making some lighting upgrades, and having a cracked driver tail light since I got the truck from one of the previous owners, I figured it was time to fix it. I had originally looked at a full set of Depo light including headlights from a guy on IH8MUD, but in the end he couldn’t get smoke, just clear. Opinions vary, and it is personal preference, but having a white truck, I wanted smoked. So, Ebay to the rescue. For less than a single OEM assembly, the new set was on its way.
Quality & Finish
Overall, these are really similar to the OEM parts. The lenses look good, and while the plastic backing/molding may be a bit softer than OEM, I see no downside to it. It may even be less likely to break if it were to be hit in cold weather but I will try and avoid testing that.
Fit & Installation
Installing these is really a breeze requiring only a Philips head screwdriver, here is what it takes:
- Open tailgate and remove the 3 light assembly screws
- Pull the 3 individual bulb assemblies
- Replace the turn signal bulb with a provided amber one
- Plug the LED brake light adapter into the existing bulb housing
- Replace the 3 bulb assemblies
- Screw the light assembly back on with the original screws and and you are done
Performance
Other than being shiny and new, and the LED’s appearing a tad brighter, they perform like stock, which is not a bad thing. I do also like that LED brake lights have essentially zero delay when the brakes are applied. even a couple tenths of a second can mean the difference between getting rear-ended or not.
Final Thoughts
If you like the look of these lights, or even just need a new assembly due to damage, these are an easy choice. Excellent price, simple installation, good looks, all make this an upgrade I would suggest to anybody.
