Fixing common issues for NA Miata tail lights

When it comes to NA Miata tail lights, there are some common problems that can be frustrating. Whether you're experiencing fog, weak turn signals, or poorly adjusted lights, we have the solutions you need. Today, we'll explore these topics and provide fixes to keep your NA Miata tail lights in top shape.

Tail lights are fogging up or leaking water inside

Fog problems with your Miata’s tail lights can be a real eyesore, especially if you just bought brand-new LED tail lights. Luckily, this problem is usually easy to fix.

Firstly, check which tail light is fogged up. If there's only one, then it's a simple solution:

1. Remove the rear light and make sure the gasket is in place. If you remove the gasket and look at the tail light from the back – there is an edge perpendicular to the tail light gasket. It should touch the gasket in the middle all around. 95% of the time, the gasket gets pushed to the side of that edge and does not seal the tail light once it’s on the car.
2. Simply re-install the tail lights and you're ready to go.

Note: If there is water inside the light, be sure to dry it. Avoid heating the lamp above 60°C (140°F)

If the tail lights still are fogging up, there is still a high chance that both of the gaskets are out of their place. Make sure to check that because it is easy to fix and does not take much time at all. 

If it does not help, please keep in mind that both our and OEM NA tail lights are designed so that the trunk area and the tail light are connected. If it's humid inside the trunk, that humidity might condense on the lens, and it will cause fogging. The fix for dampness in the trunk is to check if your trunk seals are good, if your soft top drainages are clean, and if your top is not leaking. It's a quick and easy solution that also betters your everyday Miata driving experience. 

Turn signal dim/ not lighting up properly

NA Miata is an over-30-year-old car, and unfortunately, with age, everything degrades, including its wiring. Fortunately, it can be identified and resolved.

1. It can indicate that the grounding on your car might have become weakened. Sometimes, it's just the turn signal plug that has come loose. In this case, plug it into the bulb holder, and you're done.
2. Other times, the fix can be a bit more complex. If the turn signal does not flash while the car is off and works correctly when the car is on – grounding repair is recommended. If the turn signal does not work properly even when the car is on - grounding repair is required. 

 

Luckily, there is a wealth of information on this topic available on the internet and various Miata forums. For example, you can follow this article: click here 

The tail light does not sit flush with the lines of the car 

As a classic car owner such as NA Miata, you usually want your aftermarket parts to sit correctly on the car. Since our LED tail lights are made using popular aftermarket housings (read more on that here), they copy the outer shape of the OEM ones, and they should fit nicely on your car.

If they don't: 

1. Remove the tail lights from the car and check if the gasket behind them is not pinched and sits in its place.
2. Push them back in a way the tail light studs are facing and tighten the nuts holding the tail light. The tail light should pop into place and sit flush with the body lines, just like OEM. 

 

In short, fixing these common NA Miata tail light problems is essential to maintaining the aesthetics and functionality of your vehicle. 

Whether you're experiencing fog, weak turn signals, or installation issues, these solutions will help you keep your NA Miata looking and performing its best.