996tt350

Moved up to MA and the state inspector failed me for my tail lights. They are smoked out by a previous owner. Can you change lenses on these or do you have to do whole assemblies? I either need to trade them out or un-smoke them to pass, it doesn't look like they are tinted, it is the lens itself

Atrox

Dock

Do they have film applied or is the plastic itself tinted?

996tt350

the plastic itself is tinted. definitely not film.

I was thinking of finding another inspector, but I'd rather not deal with the possible hassle ever year. The state is making places take pictures of the car now too, it's anther level of big brother.

anyone want to trade in a non-full-inspection state?

pfbz

Definitely can't change the lenses, it is a complete assembly.

Clearly a different inspector is the easiest solution, but if that doesn't work, a few thoughts:

1) If it definitely isn't film, it might be a spray tint like VHT. If so, the tint can usually be removed with solvents. Spray carb cleaner. Yes, I know it sounds scary as hell, but it works and won't harm the plastic or paint if done correctly. Spray it on a rag and wipe off the tint. Remove the lights first if you want to be extra careful. Google will yield a few video's showing the tint removal.

2) 996 Turbo tail lights are notorious for developing micro-cracks. Sometimes they get pretty bad and owners buy new taillights. You can likely find someone to sell you taillights with this minor cosmetic cracks for cheap. install them for the inspection, then put your original lights back on.

T10Chris

I have a pair of non-tinted tail lights with small superficial cracks in the upper edge of the lense where it meets the body on both sides. I was keeping them as spares for some reason, but if you want a pair to swap out for inspections then swap the tinted ones back in, I'd be willing to let them go,

PaleAle

Changing inspectors is likely not an easy solution in Cali. Once a car fails the inspector logs what if failed for. From my experience the next shop is now SUPER concerned about passing what previously failed.

"02996ttx50

MA is a bad as CA but i've never heard of a fail for tinted tails before. sheesh.

Road King

In this case MA is actually worse that CA, as we don't actually have to endure a physical / safety inspection of our cars...only smog shenanigans

"02996ttx50

well, i don't know which is worse. but i still love worcester.

Atrox