Upgrading your 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights can dramatically enhance your truck's appearance and safety. Not only do aftermarket tail lights offer a modern, stylish look, but they can also improve visibility, ensuring you're seen clearly by other drivers, especially during inclement weather or at night. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about upgrading your 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights, from choosing the right type to installation tips and tricks. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, contemporary design or enhanced functionality, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover how to transform the rear of your F150 into a real head-turner. Get ready to explore the world of LED, smoked, and custom tail lights that will make your truck stand out from the crowd.

Why Upgrade Your 2016 F150 Platinum Tail Lights?

There are several compelling reasons to consider upgrading your 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights. Firstly, the aesthetic improvement is undeniable. Swapping out your factory tail lights for a set of aftermarket ones can give your truck a fresh, modern look. Whether you prefer the sleek, dark appearance of smoked lenses or the bright, eye-catching glow of LEDs, there's a style to suit every taste. Secondly, enhanced visibility is a significant safety benefit. Many aftermarket tail lights, particularly those with LED bulbs, offer superior brightness and clarity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This increased visibility makes your truck more noticeable to other drivers, reducing the risk of accidents, especially in low-light conditions. Thirdly, upgrading your tail lights can be a relatively simple and cost-effective way to customize your truck and make it stand out from the crowd. With a wide range of styles and features available, you can easily find a set of tail lights that reflects your personal taste and enhances the overall look of your F150. Finally, some aftermarket tail lights come with additional features, such as sequential turn signals or integrated brake lights, which can further improve safety and functionality. So, if you're looking to enhance the appearance, safety, and functionality of your 2016 F150 Platinum, upgrading your tail lights is an excellent place to start.

Types of Tail Lights for Your 2016 F150 Platinum

When it comes to upgrading your 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights, you have several options to choose from, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at some of the most popular types:

• LED Tail Lights: LED (Light Emitting Diode) tail lights are a popular choice for their bright, efficient, and long-lasting performance. They offer superior visibility compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, making your truck more noticeable to other drivers. LED tail lights also consume less energy, which can help to extend the life of your truck's battery. They are available in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing you to customize the look of your F150. Plus, LEDs light up faster than incandescent bulbs, providing quicker reaction times for drivers behind you.
• Smoked Tail Lights: Smoked tail lights feature a tinted lens that gives your truck a sleek, aggressive look. They are a popular choice for those who want to enhance the appearance of their F150 without sacrificing safety. However, it's important to ensure that smoked tail lights are still bright enough to be seen clearly by other drivers, especially at night. Some smoked tail lights may not meet legal requirements in certain areas, so it's essential to check local regulations before purchasing.
• OEM Tail Lights: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tail lights are the same as the tail lights that came with your truck from the factory. They are a good option if you want to replace damaged or worn-out tail lights with an exact match. OEM tail lights are typically easy to install and are guaranteed to fit your F150 perfectly. However, they may not offer the same level of style or performance as aftermarket tail lights.
• Aftermarket Tail Lights: Aftermarket tail lights encompass a wide range of styles and features, from basic replacements to high-end custom designs. They offer the most flexibility in terms of appearance and performance, allowing you to truly personalize your truck. Aftermarket tail lights may include features such as sequential turn signals, integrated brake lights, and unique lighting patterns. However, it's important to choose a reputable brand and ensure that the tail lights meet all applicable safety standards.

Choosing the Right Tail Lights: Factors to Consider

Selecting the perfect 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure you get the best combination of style, performance, and safety. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

• Brightness and Visibility: The primary function of tail lights is to ensure your vehicle is visible to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions. Opt for tail lights with high-intensity LEDs or other advanced lighting technology to maximize brightness and visibility. Consider the light output in lumens and look for tail lights that comply with all applicable safety standards.
• Style and Design: Tail lights can significantly impact the overall appearance of your truck, so choose a style that complements your personal taste and the overall look of your F150. Consider factors such as lens color, housing finish, and lighting pattern. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or a more rugged, off-road look, there's a tail light style to suit your preferences.
• Durability and Longevity: Look for tail lights made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and resist damage from impacts, UV exposure, and extreme temperatures. LED tail lights are generally more durable and longer-lasting than traditional incandescent bulbs, offering years of reliable performance.
• Ease of Installation: Consider the installation process when choosing tail lights. Some tail lights are designed as direct replacements for your factory tail lights, making installation quick and easy. Others may require more extensive modifications or wiring, which could necessitate professional installation. Read customer reviews and check for installation guides or videos to get a sense of the difficulty level.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure that the tail lights you choose comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Some aftermarket tail lights may not meet legal requirements, particularly regarding brightness, color, and reflector placement. Check with your local authorities or a qualified automotive technician to ensure that your chosen tail lights are street legal.

Installation Guide: Upgrading Your 2016 F150 Platinum Tail Lights

Upgrading your 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights can be a straightforward process, but it's essential to follow the correct steps to ensure a safe and successful installation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials: Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials, including a socket set, screwdriver, pliers, wiring connectors (if needed), and your new tail lights. It's also a good idea to have a set of gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes.
2. Disconnect the Battery: To prevent electrical shocks or damage to your truck's electrical system, disconnect the negative terminal of your battery before starting the installation.
3. Remove the Old Tail Lights: Locate the screws or bolts that secure the old tail lights to your truck. Use the appropriate socket or screwdriver to remove them. Once the screws are removed, gently pull the tail lights away from the truck. You may need to wiggle them slightly to loosen them.
4. Disconnect the Wiring Harness: Disconnect the wiring harness from the old tail lights. This may involve squeezing a connector tab or twisting a locking ring. Be careful not to damage the wiring or connectors.
5. Connect the New Tail Lights: Connect the wiring harness to the new tail lights. Ensure that the connectors are securely attached and that the wires are properly aligned. If necessary, use wiring connectors to splice any wires that do not match up.
6. Install the New Tail Lights: Align the new tail lights with the mounting holes on your truck. Insert the screws or bolts and tighten them securely. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the tail lights or the truck's body.
7. Test the Tail Lights: Reconnect the battery and test the new tail lights to ensure that they are working properly. Check the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
8. Reassemble and Enjoy: Once you've verified that the new tail lights are working correctly, reassemble any trim pieces or panels that you removed during the installation. Step back and admire your upgraded 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights!

Maintaining Your New Tail Lights

Once you've upgraded your 2016 F150 Platinum tail lights, it's important to maintain them properly to ensure they continue to look and perform their best. Here are some tips for keeping your new tail lights in top condition:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your tail lights regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. This will remove dirt, dust, and grime that can accumulate on the lenses and reduce their brightness.
• Protective Coatings: Consider applying a protective coating to your tail lights to help protect them from UV damage, scratches, and other environmental hazards. There are several aftermarket products available that are specifically designed for protecting automotive lenses.
• Inspect for Damage: Periodically inspect your tail lights for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or fading. If you notice any damage, repair or replace the tail lights as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.
• Check the Bulbs: If your tail lights use replaceable bulbs, check them regularly to ensure that they are still functioning properly. Replace any burned-out or dim bulbs as needed.
• Wiring Inspection: Inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion. Clean or repair any damaged wiring to ensure a reliable electrical connection.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your new tail lights looking great and performing optimally for years to come.