Reflectors

I just noticed that Supras in the U.S. have those dinky reflectors on the front and back, whereas they don't in other countries (at least not in Japan). Cars often build the reflectors into the headlight and taillight assemblies instead of having separate reflectors like the Supra does, which is a much cleaner look in my opinion.

I know that Section 108 of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, as specified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, requires there to be an amber reflectors on the side and near the front and red reflectors on the side and near the back (see the table on page 476 of the link above) to increase visibility of a vehicle from the side at night. Does anyone know if this is a requirement for automobile manufacturers or car owners/drivers (presumably both)? I know that people like TJ Hunt have already blacked out their reflectors, but am wondering if doing so would technically be illegal and, if so, how often people get pulled over for that sort of thing...

Dark tint over them will be one of my first mods. Even tho I failed PA inspection once on my C7.

it is illegal to not have them or to obstruct them. that said, I've done it more times than I can count lol

I would be shocked to find anyone that has ever been pulled over for it, but I can definitely see failing a state inspection.

A70TTR said:

it is illegal to not have them or to obstruct them. that said, I've done it more times than I can count lol

I would be shocked to find anyone that has ever been pulled over for it, but I can definitely see failing a state inspection.

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Agreed. As an ex-cop I would find reasons to pull over thugs (window tint, rolling stops, not using blinker) but had never pulled anyone over for the lack of reflector and I am a car nut.

I would say you are 99.9% safe doing this modification.

Always get rid of them.. here in arkansas no state inspection and vehicle law enforcement is nonexistent.

Resuscitating this oldie...

I wished someone made clear/smoke reflectors (side markers) for the front like they do for most BMW models, past and present, for like $30-60 for the pair. A different and cheaper alternative to the painted options.

I had them on my BRZ and loved the look.

It is a shame in there is a lack of light and reflector options for the mkv in general vs the twins.

I would get some vinyl or tint to cover them up and remove them for inspection.
You can make a template very easily using some painter's tape.

That said, my Supra is black and never really bothered me..

Although expensive, IND Distribution has painted replacements for the front and side markers, as well as reflector deletes for the rear diffuser/bumper

I just replaced mine yesterday ... much cleaner looking imo...

Did two coats of VHT Nightshades on the side and the rear bumper reflectors. Still reflect orange/red at night, but look much better now.

Anyone got an update on this? I saw the tinting video, what’s the consensus on what’s better between that and replacing the entire piece? I’m about to have PPF installed so I might as well look at taking care of the reflectors now too.

Byrone said:

I’m about to have PPF installed so I might as well look at taking care of the reflectors now too.

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~ Painted looks so much cleaner imo.

Here’s what I did with my reflectors. 3M vinyl wrap.