Toyota Tacoma Headlight Buying Guide (2005–2011 & 2016–2020, OE-Style Assemblies)

This guide is for Toyota Tacoma owners who want OE-style replacement headlight assemblies rather than universal custom conversions. The goal is to help you confirm basic fitment, understand the main headlight options by generation, and choose the right assembly before you order.

1. Tacoma Headlight Generations at a Glance

For OE-style replacement assemblies, the most common Tacoma headlight generations we focus on are:

• 2005–2011 Tacoma: Halogen-based reflector or projector-style headlights, with optional LED accent tubes depending on the replacement design.
• 2016–2020 Tacoma: Projector-style headlight housings with different daytime running light (DRL) signatures and trim-specific packages.

All assemblies on our site are positioned as vehicle-specific replacements that follow factory body lines and mounting points. They are not universal retrofit buckets or custom metal fabrication kits.

2. Three Quick Checks Before You Buy

Before ordering any Tacoma headlight assembly, use these three checks to avoid mismatch and wiring issues:

1. Confirm model year: Verify the build year on your registration or VIN tag and match it to the product fitment years (for example, 2005–2011 or 2016–2020).
2. Compare your current headlight style: Look at your existing headlights from the front and side. Note whether they are reflector or projector style, and whether they already have an LED accent or DRL signature built in.
3. Check the connector layout: When possible, compare the backside of your current headlight to the product photos, paying attention to connector shape, number of plugs, and mounting tab locations.

If any of these three checks do not line up, you should pause and confirm fitment before placing an order.

3. 2005–2011 Tacoma OE-Style Headlight Options

For 2005–2011 Tacoma models, common OE-style replacement options include:

• Black or chrome housings with clear lenses.
• Projector low beams with halogen high and low beam bulbs.
• Optional LED tube accents or position lights along the outer edge of the housing.

These assemblies are designed as direct replacements for compatible 2005–2011 applications. They reuse vehicle-specific mounting points and factory-style connectors for a straightforward bolt-on install when the truck has an unmodified headlight harness.

Tip: If your truck already has aftermarket headlights or a non-standard wiring setup, take clear photos of the front and back of your current headlights and connectors before choosing a replacement.

4. 2016–2020 Tacoma OE-Style Projector & DRL Headlights

For 2016–2020 Tacoma models, OE-style projector headlight assemblies are typically grouped by:

• Black or chrome housings with clear lenses.
• Different LED DRL signatures (light tubes, halos, or clean DRL bars).
• Sequential or standard turn signal functions, depending on the design.

These assemblies are built to follow factory body lines and use Tacoma-specific mounting points. Some are intended as replacements for trucks that already have projector and DRL-style headlights, while others are aimed at trucks with basic halogen setups. Always read the fitment notes carefully and compare your current headlight design to the product photos.

5. How to Confirm Fitment with Photos

If you are unsure whether a specific Tacoma headlight assembly matches your truck, the most reliable approach is to confirm fitment with photos before you order:

• Take a clear photo of the front of your truck showing both headlights.
• Take a close-up photo of one headlight from the front and from the side.
• When possible, take a photo of the back of the headlight or the main wiring connectors.

Then provide your model year, trim level, and these photos so we can compare them against the product housing shape, mounting points, and connector layouts. This simple step greatly reduces the chance of ordering a housing that does not match your current configuration.