Tail lights

[Hightower]

Looking for some info on some tail lights that are becoming more popular in this area...

The tail lights appear to be standard, they even have a DOT number. The problem is that they are smoked out. They are obviously coated with something that makes them darker and makes the reflectors useless. Does anyone know what they are using to smoke out the tail lights? How would I look up a DOT number on a tail lamp to prove that it was modified?

Thanks all!

[neverBACKdown]

I believe you are referring to tinted tail lights which is becoming increasingly popular. The tail light covers themselves are indeed standard but they are being tinted to give it that look. Pretty similar to tinted windows except the process is a bit more difficult.

I can't quote the specific statutes but it has something to do with the amount of light that the tail lights emit that makes them illegal - however, last I was aware, as long as the vehicle has a working and unmodified third brake light than they are operating legally. Trucks often do this by running a red strip of LED across the tailgate that is wired to the brake lighting.

[MN85]

I think you're looking for MN §169.50 Sub. 1 (b) - found here

(b) Every motor vehicle, other than a truck-tractor, and every vehicle that is being drawn at the end of a train of vehicles, registered in this state and manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1960, must be equipped with at least two taillamps mounted on the rear and on the same level and as widely spaced laterally as practicable. When lighted, the taillamps must comply with the provisions of this section.

I could be entirely wrong, but that seems like it would be the most suitible statute from the quick reading I did - will dig a bit more and see if I can find something that would stick better.
MN85

[cjs-luke]

169.57 VEHICLE SIGNALS.
Subd. 4.Alteration of stop lamp prohibited.

On a vehicle that must be equipped with a single center high-mounted stop lamp under federal motor vehicle safety standards, and on any other vehicle equipped with a similar stop lamp,a person may not alter the stop lamp by the addition of an overlay or other device, or install a replacement lens, if the alteration or installation alters or obscures any portion of the lamp or affects the intensity of light emitted.

[Wims2204]

I believe the product your thinking of is nightshade. You just spray it on the tails and it makes them considerably more darker.

[Hightower]

Thanks Wims2204, that's what I was looking for. As for the statute, it would be 169.64 S 10.