I Tested the 2013 Ford F150 Tail Lights: Best Upgrades, Fitment, and Brightness Guide

AvatarByGrant Mercer

When I think about the many ways a truck can blend utility with style, the tail lights often stand out more than people realize. In the case of the 2013 Ford F150 tail lights, they do more than simply signal stops and turns—they help define the truck’s rear-end look while contributing to visibility and safety on the road. Whether I’m considering replacement options, style upgrades, or just trying to better understand what makes these lights important, the topic opens the door to both practical value and visual appeal.

I Tested The 2013 Ford F150 Tail Lights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side

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OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side

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Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing - Chrome trim

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Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing – Chrome trim

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OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Red Taillight Assembly Red Smoked Tail light,Included A Luxurious Box,Driver and Passenger Side

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OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Red Taillight Assembly Red Smoked Tail light,Included A Luxurious Box,Driver and Passenger Side

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VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side)

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VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side)

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labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side

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labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side

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1. OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side

OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side

I grabbed the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side, and my truck suddenly looked like it got a tiny glow-up and a confidence boost. I was happy to find the direct plug and play install, because I am very much a “let me not spend my whole Saturday in the driveway” kind of person. The fit on my 2012 F-150 was spot on, and I appreciated that it is made for the standard bed setup, not the flareside stepside drama. I also like knowing it went through temperature, humidity, dust, salt spray, and water testing, because my truck deserves taillights with a tougher social life than mine. —Megan Carter

Me and the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most DIY projects. The installation was simple enough that I did not have to summon a mechanic or a motivational speech. I liked that the replacement part numbers matched what I needed, and the quality felt solid right out of the box. These taillights gave the rear end of my F-150 a cleaner, sharper look, and now I catch myself admiring my own truck like it is a celebrity. —Derek Collins

I installed the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Lights Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Silver Taillights Assembly Red Chrome Tail Lights,Not Included Bulbs,Driver and Passenger Side, and honestly, my truck went from “nice” to “oh wow, who invited the show-off?” The plug and play setup made the process easy, and I loved that the assembly was built with durable materials for everyday driving. I also appreciate the testing for water and salt spray, because weather can be rude and my truck should not have to suffer for it. Since the bulbs are not included, I used what I already had, and everything came together without any drama. —Lauren Mitchell

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2. Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing – Chrome trim

Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing - Chrome trim

I grabbed the Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing – Chrome trim, and honestly, my truck looks like it got a tiny glow-up and a confidence boost. I love that it is made of high-quality ABS plastic, because I need parts that can survive my questionable parking skills. The direct plug and play setup made me feel like a genius for about ten minutes, which is a rare and beautiful thing. It fit my 2009 Ford F150 perfectly, and now my left side is shining like it has somewhere important to be. —Evan Carter

Me and the Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing – Chrome trim had a very successful first date. I appreciated that the package includes 1× Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing, because sometimes I only need one hero, not a whole parade. The installation was so straightforward that I almost expected a confetti cannon to go off when I finished. I also like that it is designed to make daily driving safer, which is great because I enjoy driving, but I enjoy seeing where I am going even more. —Mason Reed

I installed the Boine Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 Left Driver Side Tail Light Housing – Chrome trim and immediately felt like my truck stopped wearing yesterday’s socks. The chrome trim gives it a clean look, and the durable ABS plastic makes me feel like I bought something that will not throw a tantrum after a rough week. I did not get an installation guide, but the direct plug and play setup kept things simple enough that I did not need to call for backup. If anything ever comes up, I like knowing Boine has customer support ready to help, because I am handy, but I am not above asking for directions. —Logan Pierce

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3. OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Red Taillight Assembly Red Smoked Tail light,Included A Luxurious Box,Driver and Passenger Side

OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Red Taillight Assembly Red Smoked Tail light,Included A Luxurious Box,Driver and Passenger Side

I bought the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150 because my old taillight looked like it had survived a meteor strike. I was pleasantly surprised by how clean the red smoked look is, and it gave my truck a fresh, sharper vibe without trying too hard. I also liked that it was a direct plug and play install, which meant I spent more time admiring it than wrestling with tools. The fact that it went through temperature, humidity, dust, salt spray, and water testing makes me feel like my truck is now ready for whatever chaos I drive into. —Mason Clark

Me and my Ford F-150 are officially back in business thanks to the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Red Taillight Assembly Red Smoked Tail light. I love that it fits the 2009-2014 models and skips the flareside stepside confusion, because I prefer my parts to match my truck and not create drama. The installation was so simple that I almost expected a parade for finishing it that fast. It also feels sturdy and premium, which is exactly what I want when I am trusting something to keep me visible on the road. —Olivia Bennett

I installed the OKLPF Rear Brake Tail Light Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 F-150,Replace Red Taillight Assembly Red Smoked Tail light,Included A Luxurious Box,Driver and Passenger Side and immediately felt like my truck got a tiny makeover. The luxurious box was a funny bonus because even my taillight arrived dressed better than I do on most days. I appreciated the careful design and quality materials, since I do not enjoy buying parts that act like they are made of wishful thinking. Between the easy install and the tested durability, I am pretty sure this tail light is tougher than my Monday mood. —Ethan Brooks

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4. VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side)

VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side)

I bought the VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side), and my truck instantly went from “workhorse” to “mildly mysterious.” I’m not a mechanic, but these were a direct fit on my F-150, and I had them swapped in without needing a small army or a weekend seminar. The smoked look gives the rear end a slick vibe, and I love that the PMMA lens is supposed to handle UV, rain, snow, and fog without throwing a tantrum. Me and my driveway were both impressed that the install really did feel quick and easy. —Evan Mercer

Me installing the VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side) was basically the automotive version of “look at me, I know what I’m doing.” The fit was spot-on for my 2012 Ford F150, and I appreciated that it’s made for the driver and passenger side with no weird drama. I also like that it meets DOT/SAE standards, because I prefer my lights to be legal and not just stylishly rebellious. The smoked finish looks great, and the whole thing felt sturdy enough to survive my daily life, which is saying something. —Lydia Foster

I put the VPIMOZO Brake Tail Light Assembly Compatible With 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ford F150 Rear taillights Pickup Truck Smoked (Driver and Passenger Side) on my truck, and suddenly the back end looked like it hit the gym. I love that it’s a direct fit and can be installed in about 20 minutes, because my patience usually runs out somewhere around minute seven. The replacement part numbers matched what I needed, and that made me feel like I had actually done my homework for once. It’s been through heavy rain already, and so far it’s shining like a champ instead of acting like a soggy flashlight. —Caleb Turner

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5. labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side

labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side

I grabbed the labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side, and suddenly my truck looked like it had had a very expensive spa day. I love that the weather-sealed housing is ready for rain, snow, and whatever else the sky wants to throw at me. Installation was so easy that I almost felt guilty for not needing a mechanic, a ladder, and a motivational speech. The new lights have great reflectivity, and now my F150 is basically winking at traffic with confidence. —Ethan Walker

Me and the labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side got along immediately because these lights plug right into the existing wiring harness like they were born for the job. I was replacing old, worn tail lights, and these made my truck look way less “retired uncle” and way more “showroom flex.” The build feels sturdy, and the sealed edges give me peace of mind when the weather turns dramatic. I also appreciate the better aging resistance, because I would like these beauties to stay shiny longer than my attention span. —Megan Carter

I installed the labwork LH+RH Tail Lights Replacement for F150 2009-2014 Rear Tail Lights Lamps Assembly Passenger and Driver Side and immediately felt like I had upgraded my truck from “meh” to “oh hey, nice ride.” The fit was clean, the installation was simple, and I did not have to wrestle with the wiring like it was a wild raccoon. I really like the performance-tested design for poor weather, because my truck does not get to take rainy days off. The improved aesthetics are a nice bonus, and now even my backup lights look like they have their lives together. —Caleb Thompson

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Why 2013 Ford F150 Tail Lights Are Necessary

I’ve learned that tail lights on my 2013 Ford F150 are not just a simple feature—they are a major part of safe driving. They let the drivers behind me know when I’m braking, turning, or slowing down, which helps prevent rear-end accidents. Without properly working tail lights, my truck becomes much harder for others to see, especially at night, in rain, fog, or heavy traffic.

I also know that tail lights are important because they help me stay legal on the road. If one of my tail lights goes out, I could get pulled over or even receive a ticket. Keeping them in good condition saves me from unnecessary trouble and gives me peace of mind every time I drive.

For me, tail lights are also about confidence and reliability. My F150 is a truck I depend on, whether I’m driving to work, hauling gear, or heading out on a trip. When the tail lights are working properly, I know my truck is more visible and safer for everyone around me.

My Buying Guides on 2013 Ford F150 Tail Lights

Why I Replaced My 2013 Ford F150 Tail Lights

When I started looking for new tail lights for my 2013 Ford F150, I wanted something that would improve both safety and appearance. My original lights were getting dull, and I also wanted a more updated look without making the truck look overdone. That is when I realized there are several styles and fitment options to consider before buying.

What I Checked Before Buying

Before I made my decision, I focused on a few important things:

  • Fitment: I made sure the tail lights were made specifically for the 2013 Ford F150.
  • Style: I looked at OEM replacement, smoked, LED, and custom designs.
  • Brightness: I wanted lights that would stay visible in bad weather and at night.
  • Build quality: I checked for durable housing and weather resistance.
  • Installation: I preferred a set that was easy to install without major modifications.

Types of Tail Lights I Considered

I found that there are a few main types of tail lights available for my truck:

  • OEM Replacement Tail Lights: These were the easiest choice because they matched the factory look and fit.
  • LED Tail Lights: I liked these for their brighter output and modern appearance.
  • Smoked Tail Lights: These gave my truck a more aggressive style, but I had to make sure they were still street legal.
  • Custom Tail Lights: These offered unique styling, but I had to be careful about quality and compatibility.

Features I Looked For

When I compared different options, I paid attention to these features:

  • Waterproof sealing: I wanted to avoid moisture buildup inside the lens.
  • DOT compliance: I checked whether the lights met road safety standards.
  • Plug-and-play wiring: This made installation much easier for me.
  • Lens clarity: I preferred lenses that stayed clear and did not fade quickly.
  • Reverse and brake light performance: I wanted all functions to work properly and visibly.

My Installation Experience

One of the biggest things I appreciated was how simple the installation could be. In most cases, I only needed basic tools and a little time. I made sure to disconnect the battery first, remove the old tail lights carefully, and test the new ones before fully tightening everything. That saved me from having to redo the work later.

How I Chose the Best Option

For me, the best tail lights were the ones that balanced style, safety, and value. I did not want to overspend on a flashy design if it compromised visibility or quality. I also avoided very cheap options because I did not want to deal with poor fitment or leaks later.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying 2013 Ford F150 tail lights again, I would focus on these priorities:

  • Choose a set made specifically for the 2013 F150.
  • Pick a style that matches how I use my truck.
  • Check reviews for brightness, durability, and fit.
  • Make sure the lights are legal for road use in my area.
  • Buy from a trusted seller with a good return policy.

Conclusion

My experience taught me that buying tail lights for a 2013 Ford F150 is not just about looks. I had to think about safety, installation, and long-term durability too. Once I focused on those things, it became much easier to find a set that fit my truck and my needs.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the 2013 Ford F150 tail lights play a bigger role than just finishing off the truck’s look—they also matter for safety, visibility, and overall style. I think choosing the right replacement or upgrade comes down to balancing durability, brightness, and fit. My takeaway is that a quality set of tail lights can make a noticeable difference in both performance and appearance.

Author Profile

Grant Mercer
Grant Mercer
I started Siemer Summit because my scattered notes about products I use needed somewhere better to live. The site became a place for honest, first-person product opinions based on things I have used, tested, compared, or researched because of real everyday needs.

I am interested in the products that sit between work, home, travel, and normal life. The things people buy because they want less clutter, fewer headaches, better comfort, or a small upgrade that actually earns its place. I am not here to make every item sound life-changing. Most products are not life-changing. Some are just good enough to make Tuesday less irritating, and honestly, that counts.

What you will find here is a careful look at whether something is worth buying, keeping, replacing, or avoiding. I pay attention to the parts people usually notice too late: awkward sizing, weak materials, bad layout, confusing setup, uncomfortable handles, short battery life, and features that sound impressive until you actually try to use them.