Ok, I did search the subject, however I'm sure there are going to be many people interested in this specifically for the new WRX.

I am vaguely familiar with the concept of tinting or blacking out tails, however I wanted to get some input and start a discussion.

First off, has anyone heard anything by chance of any aftermarket tails coming out? I know they are usually poor quality compared to OEM, but just curious.

Also, what do you guys think the best method/products for would be for something like this? I have heard of people using vinyl/film to tint, but the standard is usually to get the spray designed specifically for the purpose. So a good question is can anyone recommend any specific product/brand?

My girlfriend [co-owner of the car] isn't 100% sure she wants to modify the only set of tail-lights we have, especially considering they are most likely going to be quite expensive for at least a year or 2 [most likely only brand new from dealership]. She's not entirely opposed to it thought, mainly because here in san jose, we must see at least 2 or 3 cars a day that have blacked out tails. [I know that doesn't make it legal... but ilegal and enforced are 2 different things]

Also, I dont think we want to BLACK them out, just smoked... we have a dark gery metallic hatch, so smoking them will look hot im sure.

any suggestions or opinions are welcome... i know some people think its a stupid idea to do anything to your tails, but anything is better than the bright-*** stock clear tail lights.

 

Bake em. Open em. Take apart the housing. High Temp. Re=bake and then seal.

Takes some courage to do it but be the first and create a how to for 08s

 

now wait... ive heard of/seen plenty of people that get great results by just coating the outside... not to mention what if I dont get them sealed right again... I dunno, i hear ya on the how to and know that that would be the "preferred" method, i'm just not sure if I want to do that unless its a spare set.

 

Ok then Night Shade it.

I don't know if rockblocker came out anything for the 08 yet. Might want to wait and see what they come out with.

 

see, i know that night shades is the most popular brand, but I was hoping to hear some peoples personal experience. I have also heard that night shades is not the best quality you can get... but I have also heard that its all in the method.

anyone who has actually done this [not necessarily on an 08, or even on a subaru...]

 

I'm not sure about 08, but you CANNOT bake the older models' tails like the heads. You have cut open w/ dremel!!!
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/show....php?t=1098681

I'd suggest to get some vinyl film instead of VHT NiteShade, because it's easier to put on & take off (if needed).
http://www.hotsubarus.com/index.asp?...ROD&ProdID=189

 

considering the 07/08 forester tail lights can not be baked, and too require a dremel and epoxy glue I would go with tint.

 

Go to a sign shop and pickup a couple of feet of Oracal 8300 Transparent Vinyl and give me a call. i ve done many WRX/G35/G37/350Z taillites, you name it i can do it. dont buy those $60+ pre-cut kit because i still have to cut and trim it to fit. buy from a bulk roll its much cheaper. give me a call for more details.

-vincent
Omega Tintwerks
925-227-1322




08 STi Full Wrap ClearBra

 

+1 for vincent for the tint. quality work.

-Stephen

p.s i got my rx8 now.

 

I haven't been around this forum in ages since we bought the car, but I came back because the new section was opened up.

We still haven't had any time or extra cash to do anything to the new ride, however tint is pretty much at the top of the list, and we will probably do the tails at the same time. I'm feelin' you guys on the film over the spray on stuff... possibly more money in the long run, but not quite as permanent either.

thanks for the info, I'll have to consider making the long drive up there from the south bay, but I may try and find someone more local.

 

harman motive has some film kits.

http://www.harmanmotive.com/catalog/...oducts_id=2285

 

Gonna have to see Vince to get the 06 tinted up.

 

located in the bay?

ill have to stop by.. as soon as i get my car.

 

Vincent is a good guy! He will talk and work with you about what he can do and give some ideas. He came up with a few for mine that im going to get done.

What part of San Jose are you in? I still havnt seen any other 08s on the road. I drive a DGM WRX sedan, de-badged. Ill keep my eye out for ya.

 

I actually like how the whole car looks stock.

I wont be changing anything other then go fast parts: uppipe, downpipe, exhaust, turbo, intercooler, intake (k&n drop in filter).