How long will the tail light lens last?

There are a number of important lighting fixtures in your car – headlights, turn signals, reversing lights, taillights, brake lights and more. At the back of the car, your headlights are enclosed in a tail light lens. Depending on the make and model...

There are a number of important lighting fixtures in your car – headlights, turn signals, reversing lights, taillights, brake lights and more. At the back of the car, your headlights are enclosed in a tail light lens. Depending on the brand and model, you may have one lens or multiple lenses.

Lenses do several different things. First, they help turn white light into a different color. For example, your brake and tail light bulbs are clean and emit white light. The red translucent plastic of the rear light lens turns white light into red so it is easier to see at night, in low light and when braking. The taillight lenses also protect the bulbs and wiring from the elements - rain, sleet and snow can damage unprotected bulbs and wiring.

While your taillight lenses don't actually do any work (they have no moving parts and don't support load), they do wear out over time. The main cause of rear light lens failure is exposure to direct sunlight (predominantly ultraviolet rays) as well as extreme temperatures. Over time, the plastic can tarnish and discolor, and it will also begin to become brittle and more easily damaged. It is also possible that the water seal around the edge of the lens will fail, allowing moisture to enter the lens, which could short out the lamps.

Because they are made of relatively brittle plastic, your car's taillight lenses are also easily damaged. All it takes is accidentally reversing into a tree, power pole, or other vehicle to crack the lens. Once it cracked, it needs to be replaced. A crack will not only allow moisture to enter the lens, but it will also jeopardize your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road.

There is no set lifespan for taillight lenses, and with proper care and protection, they should last a very long time (at least ten years under the right circumstances). However, here are a few symptoms that may indicate the need for a lens replacement:

• Significant amount of moisture inside the lens
• Cracks in plastic
• Visible lens damage
• Missing lens parts

If your tail light lens is damaged or is starting to show signs of wear, a professional mechanic can help inspect your vehicle and replace your tail light lens if needed.