Blacked out headlights?

[Insight]

I'm considering getting my headlights and taillights blacked out. Nothing to drastic but enough to be noticeable.

My only concern is.. Legality. I have no idea if that is legal or not here in California. I've seen guys rocking vehicles of all types with the blacked out lights but I don't know I can't say for sure.

It's not something I'm dead set on doing. I'd be happy with upgrading to some more updated clearer lenses when it's all said and done.

[5bird7]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

legality would be your biggest concern as manufacturers have to meet certain federal requirements for headlight brightness, high and low beam.

[007Cruiser]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Ask the CHP or your DMV.

[Insight]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Honestly I feel like that would be a good way to blacklist myself.

[007Cruiser]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Call anonymously.

[doubutsu]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Jacob, most companies that install tine will level with you as to what is legal and what isn't, just ask

[stanw]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

If you do black out your headlights dont get caught in the rain in ca as you must have headlights on when using windshield wipers!

[mrzip]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Ok I know I'm over the hill. I've seen guys cover the top half of a headlight with chrome, but I don't know what a blacked out headlight is. Please inform.

[jayred1]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Just google "blacked out headlights" (or taillights) and hit images on the right side and you'll see lots of examples.

OP - you can also google "blacked out headlights legal" and you'll see many posts. It appears to vary by state, so you might add your state to the google search.

[Mintgrn]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

I suppose they would be useful in an air raid.

[JAB02LHS]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

California DMV

(e) Taillamps shall be red in color and shall be plainly visible from all distances within 500 feet to the rear except that taillamps on vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1969, shall be plainly visible from all distances within 1,000 feet to the rear.

[texasbird]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

One thing not considered when blacking out taillights is the diminished brightness of brake lights in bright sunlight. The brightness of the brake lights is the first alert warning that prevents rear end collisions. This may be something else you want to consider when making your decision.

[qruml23]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Where this stupid idea comes from to influence the youngest people about the security on the road? What is the fun or pleasure having that ? Just let me know.

[merlot4]

Re: Blacked out headlights?

Although not CA, here is a now infamous case against someone with a Pontiac G8 for not having tail lights that complied with state law.

http://www.techdirt.com/articles/201...63910263.shtml

While the case is actually difficult to make sense of because of some sensationalism, the comments are interesting in that some mention DOT standards trump state laws. While it's obvious that all lights must meet DOT standards, can a state demand alterations to this?

Blackout looks cool, but the bottom line, as John and James pointed out, is that if you mess around with the lights, you are not only risking a ticket, but quite possibly your own safety.