There isn't a DOT number on the taillights, but there is an SAE number. Visteon is simply a subsidiary of Ford that produces parts (like Delphi for GM). A law officer is not likely to know this.

You could easily argue with an officer (which I don't recommend at the time you are getting a ticket), that something designed to SAE standards will meet all DOT standards.

I got pulled over on Friday and the Texas State Trooper asked me about my taillights. I told him that they were factory and my truck is a special 380HP Lighting. He gave me a warning for 85 mph in a 70 mph. He then mentioned that he doesn't like radar detectors (which I had in the window).



------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH

WWW.Mustang351W.F150online.NET
WWW.Lightning.F150online.NET

 

You should have told him at least you'll be able to make babies a lot longer than he can.

BfB

 

We purchased our 01 in February, and on the way home (approx 100 miles) I was pulled over by a Missouri state trooper. I figured my temp tag had fallen off my rear window and the trooper was only doing her job as I was not speeding. The trooper informed me that she could not see my reflectors thru the clear lens. She had me step out and get in her vehicle while she looked for the statue on the rear reflectors. I explained that the L only had 30 miles on the odometer. She insisted that these were aftermarket lights and needed to be replaced to be in compliance with Missouri's code. I insisted that they were original equipment, the DOT approved them and finally she let me go. She said, "I'm not going to issue you a summons at this time." She was very polite during this ordeal, and I thanked her for her concern. That was almost 5 months ago and have yet to be pulled over again. Knock on wood! Some folks are just not informed. Bob

 

If you're actually using Ford parts....
Give me some contact info.....
I'll forward your request to some people in SVE. They should be able to help you out of this.

msroka@ford.com

I can't fix everything, but I'm always willing to help. I want our products to be the best possible.

 

I should have added...... this goes for anyone who has issues with any Ford products. If I can help... I will.

I work on Mustang, but I've got both a Cobra and a Lightning. Love'em both!!

 

WOW, you rock! A Ford employee who steps up to the plate!

WE ALREADY LOVE YOU!!!

Keep posting here please! We value your insight and knowledge.

BfB

 

I finally got word back from Visteon on the legality of the taillights. They actually sent me the test results of the lens assembly. If anyone is interested in obtaining this document for their own use, please reply to this message and I will be happy to forward it on to you. Unfortunately I cannot post a pdf file here as an attachment.

It looks like I can finally make a fool out of this trooper that thought he was God.

 

Good job DUFUNNEL!!! BTW i would like a copy of that report.
Please send to peties3@aol.com

 

I got pulled over because of these lights too. When I showed the cop the Lightning brochure he let me go. It is odd though that a bunch of us are getting pulled over due to our tail lights.

 

dufunnel,

Please send me a copy of that report. My email is mrelmtow@mediaone.net.

Thanks,

Mike

 

Hey I would like a copy of those test results too. Never know when you might need them. License, registration, tail light test results....

ferris47@home.com

 

Be aware that if you are using some of the "no name" Euro clear tails some are not approved by DOT even if they have the letters stamped on them. There were some that were recalled due to false claims of legality. Overseas companies just want your money and are not concerned with your safety.

I know the Visteon L tails are legal because Ford would not be able to install them if they weren't.

I hope you are OK and your truck is as good as new in no time.
Best of luck with your troubles.

 

please email the file to me... there are at least 3 2001 lightnings in town, and i just put 2001 lightning tails on my truck..

clonetek@jam.rr.com

thanks!
brooks

 

Please send me a copy as well.

screwnuts@aol.com

 

Ricers love to put those clear tail lights on, and they're usually the ones driving like idiots and street racing. Maybe L owners are getting some flacks by (mistaken) association by some officers.

I'd also like to get a copy of the report, since I'm contemplating '01 L lights for my '01 F150 Harley. chaean@onebox.com