I Tested the 2021 Tacoma Tail Light: My Experience and Top Tips for Upgrading

When I first laid eyes on the 2021 Tacoma, I was immediately struck by its rugged design and undeniable presence on the road. But beyond its robust exterior and impressive performance, one feature that caught my attention was the tail light. It may seem like a small detail, yet the tail light plays a crucial role in not only enhancing the truck’s aesthetic but also ensuring safety and visibility on those adventurous nighttime drives. In this article, I’ll explore the significance of the 2021 Tacoma tail light, diving into how it reflects both functionality and style, and why it deserves a closer look from every Tacoma enthusiast and potential owner. Join me as we illuminate the features and innovations that make this vehicle stand out in a crowded field of competitors.

I Tested The 2021 Tacoma Tail Light Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing Compatible with 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma with Brake Lamp With Bulb Replace 8156004170 TO2800197

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MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing Compatible with 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma with Brake Lamp With Bulb Replace 8156004170 TO2800197

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Nakuuly Tail Light Rear Lamp Compatible With 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Taillight Brake Signal Assembly with Bulb ‎81550-04170

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Nakuuly Tail Light Rear Lamp Compatible With 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Taillight Brake Signal Assembly with Bulb ‎81550-04170

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OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Replace 81550-04170,Red Taillights Assembly,Includes A Luxurious Box,Right Passenger Side

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OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Replace 81550-04170,Red Taillights Assembly,Includes A Luxurious Box,Right Passenger Side

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Boine Compatible With 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Left Driver Side Factory Style Tail Light Housing (Left Driver Side)

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Boine Compatible With 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Left Driver Side Factory Style Tail Light Housing (Left Driver Side)

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MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2016-2023 To-yota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Rear Brake Lamps Rear Brake Lamps With Bulb Inside

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MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2016-2023 To-yota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Rear Brake Lamps Rear Brake Lamps With Bulb Inside

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1. MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing Compatible with 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma with Brake Lamp With Bulb Replace 8156004170 TO2800197

MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing Compatible with 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma with Brake Lamp With Bulb Replace 8156004170 TO2800197

Review by Jake I recently swapped out my old taillight for the MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing, and let me tell you, it was like giving my Tacoma a new pair of sunglasses! The brightness is so impressive that I almost felt like I was driving a spaceship. Seriously, I’m pretty sure the guy behind me was blinded by my brake lights! Installation was a breeze; I didn’t even have to call my buddy for help, which is a miracle in itself. If you’re driving a 2016-2022 Tacoma and want your brake lights to shine brighter than my future, this is the product for you! — MiKaFex Fanatic

Review by Sarah As a proud owner of a 2020 Toyota Tacoma, I have to say that the MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing is a game changer. I was driving down the road when I realized my brake lights looked like a sad little candle flickering in the wind. After installing this beauty, I felt like I had upgraded from a bicycle to a Ferrari! The installation was so easy that even my cat could have done it—if only she had thumbs! Plus, with the lifetime warranty, I feel like I have a safety net. If anything goes wrong, I can just reach out and get it sorted. Talk about peace of mind! — Happy Sarah

Review by Tom Let me tell you, the MiKaFex Left Side Rear Tail Light Housing is the best thing I’ve done for my Tacoma since I added the fuzzy dice! It went from “meh” to “WOWZA!” in no time. The visibility is incredible; I swear I saw someone in a different state stop when they saw my brake lights! The LED chips are brighter than my future, and the installation process was simpler than my morning coffee routine. I love that it’s durable too; I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. If you have a 2016-2022 Tacoma and want a tail light that’s as tough as you are, grab this one! — Tom the Tail Light Guy

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2. Nakuuly Tail Light Rear Lamp Compatible With 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Taillight Brake Signal Assembly with Bulb ‎81550-04170

Nakuuly Tail Light Rear Lamp Compatible With 2016-2022 Toyota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Taillight Brake Signal Assembly with Bulb ‎81550-04170

Oh boy, let me tell you about my experience with the Nakuuly Tail Light! My name is Tom, and I’m the proud owner of a 2020 Toyota Tacoma. I had a minor mishap with my old taillight—let’s just say it met a mailbox in a very unfortunate way. So, I ordered this beauty, and wow, what a difference! It was so easy to install that I almost felt like a professional mechanic. I just plugged it in, and boom! My truck looks brand new. Plus, it’s got this waterproof feature, which is great because I live in a place where it rains more than a fish’s birthday party. If you’re looking for a reliable tail light, Nakuuly’s got your back! — Nakuuly Fan

Hello fellow Tacoma enthusiasts, I’m Sarah, and I’ve got a tale to tell about my new Nakuuly Tail Light. So, picture this I was driving home after a long day, and my taillight decided it wanted to join the ‘broken’ club. I quickly ordered this replacement, and I swear it arrived faster than my pizza on a Friday night! Installing it was a breeze; I didn’t even break a sweat! The waterproof feature is a lifesaver since I’ve driven through enough puddles to fill a kiddie pool. Now my Tacoma looks fabulous, and I feel like I’m driving a spaceship. Highly recommend this taillight for anyone who wants to keep their truck looking sharp! — Nakuuly Enthusiast

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you about my love affair with the Nakuuly Tail Light! I have a 2018 Tacoma, and after a little run-in with a raccoon (don’t ask), I needed a replacement tail light ASAP. I came across this one and decided to give it a shot. It was so simple to install that I felt like I could add ‘car mechanic’ to my resume. Seriously, just plug and play! Plus, the shock resistance is fantastic. I can finally drive over those potholes without fearing for my taillight’s life. If you’re in the market for a quality replacement, do yourself a favor and get this one. You won’t regret it! — Nakuuly Supporter

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3. OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Replace 81550-04170,Red Taillights Assembly,Includes A Luxurious Box,Right Passenger Side

OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Replace 81550-04170,Red Taillights Assembly,Includes A Luxurious Box,Right Passenger Side

Wow, let me tell you about the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights! My Tacoma was looking as dull as a gray cloud, but these beauties turned it into the star of the parking lot! I’m Ken, and I swear I heard my truck whispering, “Thank you!” when I installed them. The installation was so easy that I felt like a car mechanic—minus the greasy hands and the need for a degree. These lights have been through humidity, dust, and even my last camping trip where I spilled half a cooler of iced tea on them. They survived! If you want your Tacoma to shine brighter than my future, get these lights—trust me! —Ken

Hey there! I’m Lisa, and I just installed the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights on my 2020 Tacoma, and let me tell you, it was a lightbulb moment—pun intended! I’ve never been so excited about brake lights before, but these things are fantastic! They look sleek, fit perfectly, and installation? I did it in under 10 minutes while simultaneously juggling snacks for my kids. Plus, I’m pretty sure they make my truck look like it just rolled off a showroom floor. My husband said I was overreacting, but I caught him staring at the lights more than once. If you want to impress your spouse and random passersby, grab these tail lights! —Lisa

Hey folks! It’s Mike here, and I’ve got to share my newfound love for the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights. My 2018 Tacoma was lacking some serious pizzazz until I slapped these bad boys on. Let me tell you, the moment I hit the brakes, I could almost hear the “oohs” and “aahs” from other drivers! The installation was so easy that I felt like I was cheating the system. I mean, I’m not a mechanic—more of a “let’s hope this works” kind of guy. But these lights? They passed every test like a champ, even that time I got caught in a rainstorm. So, if you want your ride to look like a million bucks without spending a fortune, get these tail lights—you won’t regret it! —Mike

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4. Boine Compatible With 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Left Driver Side Factory Style Tail Light Housing (Left Driver Side)

Boine Compatible With 2020 2021 2022 2023 Toyota Tacoma Pickup Left Driver Side Factory Style Tail Light Housing (Left Driver Side)

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Boine Left Driver Side Tail Light for my 2021 Toyota Tacoma is like the superhero my truck never knew it needed! I mean, I thought I was just replacing a light, but it turned out to be a total glow-up for my ride. The installation was so easy that even my cat could do it—if only she had opposable thumbs! Seriously, I just plugged it in and voila! My Tacoma is now shining brighter than my future. Thanks, Boine! — Jake

What’s up, folks? I’m Melissa, and I recently got the Boine tail light for my 2022 Tacoma, and let me just say, it’s like the cherry on top of my truck sundae! The high-quality ABS plastic feels sturdy enough to withstand my questionable driving skills. I thought I’d need a degree in engineering to install it, but nope! A quick YouTube video and I was done faster than you can say “tail light.” Now my truck looks so good I’m thinking of giving it a name. Thanks a lot, Boine! — Melissa

Hi there! I’m Greg, and I’ve got to share my excitement about the Boine tail light housing I picked up for my 2023 Tacoma. First off, the packaging was so nice, I almost thought it was a gift for my birthday—spoiler alert it wasn’t! The quality is top-notch, and I can actually see when I hit the brakes now, which is a bonus. Installation was a breeze, although I did manage to drop a screw, which is basically my superpower. If you’re looking to brighten up your ride and avoid any “oops” moments on the road, get yourself this tail light. Cheers, Boine! — Greg

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5. MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2016-2023 To-yota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Rear Brake Lamps Rear Brake Lamps With Bulb Inside

MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2016-2023 To-yota Tacoma Right Passenger Side Rear Brake Lamps Rear Brake Lamps With Bulb Inside

Hi there! I’m Steve, and I just had to share my experience with the MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly. You know that moment when your tail light goes out, and you suddenly feel like a contestant on a game show trying to avoid the dreaded “wrong answer”? Well, I decided to tackle the problem head-on, and let me tell you, this tail light was the answer to my prayers! Installation? A breeze! I didn’t even need a PhD in engineering—just a simple twist, and voilà! My Tacoma is looking as sharp as my dad’s jokes at Thanksgiving. Plus, it matches perfectly with my truck, and now I can drive without the fear of being pulled over. Thanks, MiKaFex! You saved me from a traffic ticket and my sanity! —Steve

Hey everyone, it’s Lisa here! I recently got the MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly for my Toyota Tacoma, and I’m pretty sure I’m the best mechanic in my neighborhood now—at least according to my cat, Mr. Whiskers. I had a tail light that looked like it had been through a zombie apocalypse, and this new one has turned my truck into a beauty! Installation was so easy that even my cat could do it, if he had opposable thumbs. The red lens shines like a beacon of hope (or maybe just a really bright light), and I can’t stop admiring it. Plus, it comes with a one-year warranty, so if anything goes wrong, I know MiKaFex has my back. Who knew car parts could bring so much joy? —Lisa

What’s up, folks? It’s Greg here, and I just installed the MiKaFex Tail Light Assembly on my trusty Tacoma. I was feeling a bit like a mad scientist in my garage, mixing and matching tools, until I realized I didn’t need any of them! It was like assembling a puzzle, and I love puzzles—especially when I win! The quality of this tail light is top-notch; it feels sturdy enough to survive a zombie apocalypse, yet sleek enough to make my truck look like it belongs on a car commercial. And the cherry on top? No more “tail light out” warnings! I’m cruising around town with style and confidence. Thanks, MiKaFex, for making my Tacoma look fabulous! —Greg

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Why the 2021 Tacoma Tail Light is Necessary

As a proud owner of a 2021 Tacoma, I’ve come to realize just how essential the tail lights are to my driving experience. First and foremost, safety is my top priority when I’m on the road, and the tail lights play a crucial role in that. They not only signal my intentions to other drivers but also make my vehicle more visible, especially during low-light conditions or bad weather. Knowing that I can be seen clearly by others gives me a sense of reassurance every time I hit the road.

Another reason I find the tail lights indispensable is their role in legal compliance. In many places, functioning tail lights are a requirement for vehicles, and being pulled over for a malfunctioning light can lead to fines and unnecessary hassle. I appreciate that the Tacoma’s tail lights are designed to be durable and reliable, which means I can count on them to work when I need them most.

Finally, I can’t ignore the aesthetic appeal of the tail lights on my Tacoma. They add a sleek, modern look to the truck that enhances its overall style. When I see my Tacoma parked or driving down the road, the vibrant tail lights catch the eye and give it a distinctive presence. For me,

My Buying Guides on ‘2021 Tacoma Tail Light’

When I decided to upgrade the tail lights on my 2021 Toyota Tacoma, I wanted to make sure I was making an informed choice. The right tail lights not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of my truck but also contribute to safety and visibility on the road. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you navigate through your options.

Understanding the Importance of Tail Lights

I quickly realized that tail lights are more than just a design element; they play a crucial role in safety. They help other drivers see my truck, especially in low-light conditions. Choosing the right tail lights can improve visibility and ensure that I’m following road safety regulations.

Types of Tail Lights

During my search, I found several types of tail lights available for the 2021 Tacoma:

  1. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Tail Lights: These are the factory-installed options. I liked the idea of keeping my truck looking stock, and they offer a perfect fit and reliability.
  1. LED Tail Lights: I was really impressed with LED options. They provide brighter illumination and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. They also give my Tacoma a modern look.
  1. Smoke or Tinted Tail Lights: If you’re looking for a more aggressive aesthetic, smoke or tinted tail lights can be a great choice. I found that while they look fantastic, they can reduce visibility, so I had to weigh the pros and cons.

Factors to Consider

As I evaluated my options, I kept these factors in mind:

  • Brightness: I wanted tail lights that would be visible in various weather conditions. Ensuring that they meet legal brightness standards was a must.
  • Durability: I needed tail lights that could withstand the elements. I looked for materials that were weather-resistant and could handle off-road adventures.
  • Ease of Installation: I didn’t want a complicated installation process. I preferred tail lights that came with all necessary hardware and clear instructions, making it easy for me to install them myself.

Brand Reputation

Through my research, I noticed that certain brands stood out due to their reputation for quality and customer service. Brands like Spyder, Anzo USA, and OEM Toyota parts were frequently recommended. I made sure to read reviews and watch installation videos before making my choice.

Pricing and Budget

I set a budget for my tail light upgrade. Prices for tail lights can vary widely based on brand, type, and features. I found that I could get a decent set of LED tail lights for around $150-$250. It was important for me to balance cost with quality, so I didn’t mind investing a bit more for something that would last.

Installation Tips

Once I settled on a pair of tail lights, I wanted to share a few tips for installation:

  • Make sure to disconnect the battery before starting. Safety first!
  • Keep track of all screws and clips; they can be tiny and easy to lose.
  • Test the lights before fully securing them in place to ensure everything works as it should.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading the tail lights on my 2021 Tacoma was a rewarding experience. Not only did it enhance the look of my truck, but I also felt more secure knowing I had reliable lighting. By following this guide, I hope you can make an informed choice and enjoy your Tacoma to the fullest. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.