Would you prefer symmetrical taillights on your NB or NBFL? Read here to find out how to do it.
The first-generation MX-5 had symmetrical taillights. With the introduction of the second generation, that changed for the European market. One taillight had a red section for the fog light, and the other had a white section for reverse lighting. That white section is right next to the license plate—take a look. The taillight with the red section was on the side where the steering wheel was, and the one with the white section was on the other side. So in the United Kingdom, the layout is different from what we have here. There are therefore two ways to make it symmetrical again.
Depending on your personal preference, you can choose between two taillights with a red panel or two with a white panel. I chose two taillights with a white panel, so I bought a left taillight from a British car to go with them. To ensure that the rear fog light emits a red light, I installed red LED lights behind the white lens. This modification can be done without making any changes to the taillight or the wiring. It also has no impact on the vehicle inspection (MOT).
The photo shows the new arrangement, in which the taillights are once again symmetrical and visually balanced.
With the second method, you choose two taillights with red panels and look for a right taillight from a British car. Since this eliminates a large white panel used for reversing, that light must be moved to the section that still has a white lens—the panels used for the turn signals. Moving that white light requires a mechanical modification to the taillight. You’ll need to drill a hole to fit the light into the space intended for the turn signal. The wiring will also need to be rerouted.
Let me know which option you’d prefer: the original (which isn’t symmetrical), two white ones, or two red ones.
