The BLIS Headache: How to Upgrade Tail Lights on a Lariat/Platinum F-150
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Upgrading the tail lights on a 2015–2020 Ford F-150 is usually simple. Two bolts, one plug, done.
Unless, of course, you have a Lariat, King Ranch, or Platinum.
If your truck is equipped with the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), your tail lights aren't just lights—they are radar stations. The sensor that detects cars in your blind spot is housed inside the tail light assembly.
This creates a problem for aftermarket upgrades. If you buy a standard set of LED lights for an XLT, there is nowhere to put your radar module. You end up with a dashboard full of error codes and a non-functioning safety system.
In this guide, we explain the difference between Non-BLIS and BLIS-Compatible housings, and walk you through the surprisingly easy process of swapping your radar module into a set of Morimoto XB lights.
Compare Tail Light Styles
Red, Smoked, or Sequential?
|
Series / Brand |
Style |
Signal Style |
Best For |
|
Morimoto XB |
Fiber Optic C-Bar. |
Sequential. Amber or Red turn signal. |
Premium. The "King Ranch" look with better output. |
|
AlphaRex Pro |
Tube LED. |
Standard. Blinks on/off. |
Budget. Great upgrade for halogen trucks. |
|
AlphaRex Luxx |
3D Light Bar. |
Sequential. "Switchback" functionality. |
Style. Unique start-up animation features. |
|
Recon OLED |
Smooth OLED. |
Sequential. Fluid scanning motion. |
Smoked. Best-selling dark smoke finish. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Tail Lights)
Will I lose my Blind Spot (BLIS) monitoring?
Not if you buy the right lights. If your truck is equipped with BLIS, you must purchase a BLIS-compatible set. These aftermarket housings are designed with a specific slot to hold your factory radar module. You simply unbolt the module from your stock light, transfer it to the new housing, and plug it in. The system works exactly as before.
Do these lights cause "Hyperflash" on the dash?
No. All the complete assemblies we sell (Morimoto/AlphaRex) come with pre-wired load resistors. These resistors simulate the power draw of a standard bulb, tricking the truck's computer so your turn signals flash at the normal speed.
Are smoked tail lights legal?
It depends.
- Lightly Smoked (DOT Approved): Brands like Morimoto use a slightly darkened lens but utilize ultra-bright LEDs to ensure the red light shines through clearly. These are generally street legal.
- Blacked Out (Paint/Tint): If you spray paint your lights or use heavy vinyl tint, it is likely illegal and dangerous because the brake lights become invisible in sunlight.
Leave the halogens behind.
Upgrade to sequential LEDs that work with your Blind Spot system. Shop our verified collection of [2015–2020 F-150 LED Tail Lights].