How to Install: Reverse Light Kit for 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma

2016-2023 Tacoma Reverse Light Kit
August 11, 2026 | Print this Page
How to Install: Reverse Light Kit for 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma

Thank you for your purchase of our Stage Series Reverse Light Kit for the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma. This kit allows you to mount two LED pods under the rear bumper. Basic installation instructions are included below.

This kit is designed to be activated with your factory reverse light and running light signals. The switch allows you to control the reverse light function:

  • Position “1” – Activates any time your factory backup lights are turned on.
  • Position “2” – Allows manual override to turn the pods on at any time.
  • “Off” – Keeps the reverse lights off at all times.

If you do not plan on using the override function, you may leave the switch in the “1” position and mount it in the engine bay.

Table of Contents

Installation Video

 

Installation Tools

  • 12mm socket
  • 10mm socket
  • 5/32” Allen key
  • 3/8” wrench
  • Wire strippers

Time Required: Approximately 1–2 hours.


Bracket Installation

Step 1 – Remove factory bumper bolt

Using a 12mm socket, remove the factory bolt on the underside of the truck bumper.

Step 2 – Install universal bracket

Secure the provided universal bracket using the factory bolt removed in Step 1. Reinstall the bolt, ensuring the curved portion of the bracket faces toward the rear of the vehicle.

Step 3 – Install LED pod

Install your new SSC1 or SSC2 pod onto the universal bracket using the provided hardware. Using a 5/32” Allen key and a 3/8” wrench, tighten the screw so the pod retains its position but can pivot with force for aiming.

Repeat Steps 1–3 on the opposite side of the vehicle.


Taillight Removal

Step 4 – Remove taillight bolts

Drop the tailgate to access the three bolts located on the side of the taillight. Using a 10mm socket, remove the three bolts holding the taillight to the truck bed.

Step 5 – Remove taillight housing

Remove the taillight housing by grabbing the top and bottom and pulling outward.

Step 6 – Disconnect connectors

Disconnect the bottom two connectors from the back of the taillight.


Wiring Instructions

Step 7 – Install vehicle-specific adapter harness

Connect the provided vehicle-specific adapter harness in-line between the OEM harness connector and the connector on the back of the taillight.

Step 8 – Route amp connector wire

Feed the female 2-pin amp connector wire down through the taillight cavity hole alongside the factory harness.

Step 9 – Reinstall taillight

Move the taillight back into position and reinstall the three factory bolts.

Step 10 – Connect to battery

Connect the split ring terminals on the included wiring harness to the battery. The black (ground) wire connects to the negative battery terminal or a factory grounding point. The red (power) wire connects to the positive battery terminal.

Step 11 – Mount relay

Determine a suitable location to mount the relay. We recommend mounting it near the battery.

Step 12 – Install switch

Determine where you would like to mount the switch. If using the override function, mount the switch inside the cabin by routing through the firewall. Drill a 3/4” (19mm) hole for the switch. Reconnect wires and mount securely.

Step 13 – Route harness under vehicle

Route the connector end of the harness underneath the vehicle. We recommend following the wheel well underneath, ensuring to avoid hot or moving parts.

NOTE: Disconnect the universal section from the amp connector on the provided universal wiring harness. This section will not be used.

Step 14 – Connect pods

Plug the DT connector into the back of the pods and the amp connector into the provided universal harness coming from the taillight.


Aiming Instructions

Step 15 – Aim and secure pods

Aim the pods as desired. Tighten hardware using a 5/32” Allen key and a 3/8” wrench. Aiming can be achieved with the pods installed on the vehicle; removal is not required.


Questions About the Installation?

If you have any questions about installing the Stage Series Reverse Light Kit for 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma , contact us via our support page.

Where Can I Buy the Stage Series Reverse Light Kit for 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma?

Visit DiodeDynamics.com or use our Dealer Locator.

This Installation Guide is for the following SKUs:
DD7158, DD7159, DD7160, DD7161, DD7162

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