This may seem like an odd question, but has anyone custom fit the Gen 2 tail lights into a R53?

I have a thing about "tail lights" and prefer the look of the Gen 2s, but want to get back into an '06 MCS for many other reasons.

I do not like any of the aftermarket options and have done the whole "crack 'em open and take the chrome out", which, don't get me wrong, they do look better, however, I still prefer the bigger tail light of the Gen 2.

Just curious.

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Well they are quite abut larger so I don't see how you could, maybe get an aftermarket that looks similar.

 

^+1 putting the R56 taillights in would probably reqire cutting, rewiring and lots of work. Better to fint some good aftermarkets.

 

But I wonder if it could be done...my husband is quite handy. 🤓

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That's allot of work. They are two different sizes.

I would get gen 1 Euro taillights , Euro clears, or some aftermarket ones, before cutting up the rear panels.

Options and years below

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...il-lights.html

 

These are really cool! Would look better without the chrome inside! They would for sure fit the '06?

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They are marked for the years the ones pic above is for Gen 1 MINIs 7/2004- , so yes.

Years are marked in the link.


I have the Euro taillights in my r52 with amber tops. Really like them.

 

Would you happen to have a pic of them installed in the Cooper?

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those are hot

 

of course it can be, anything can be done. Not sure being "handy" will be enough for that task.

 

I just talked to him about it and he laughed--he thinks a great deal is involved too.

What do you think would beed to be done? It would be as simple as cutting the holes bigger and re-wiring, huh? What do I know...I get a free pass--I am a chick! Haha

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Not any good close ups

Here some pics of others...















Clear top ( amber flash )






Gives you an idea,

 

Thanks - not sure how much different they look to the stock.

I may just crack them open and get the chrome out. I have to buy the car first. Hahaha

Trying to find the perfect one. I will have to ask more questions (start another thread) about whether to look for a factory JCW '06 or and S.

Most of my minis have been JCWs. I don't know if spending the extra money is worth it--I do not necessarily look at it being faster, but like the sound of a JCW better in newer years. I need to find out if this is true in an '06 or not.

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They look good and with a new lens , make your MINI look new on the back since most get that cloudy look with age. Mine an 05' so it made it look new again.

Try for find a factory 06 JCW or a Tuning Kit JCW pre 05-06. Or an R52 JCW. Good luck, they are hard to find. Most of the time they are priced the same as an S , most people dont know they were more expensive with those options.

 

I got the Euro taillights with amber turn lens for my 06 cabrio because I wanted my turn signals to flash amber. It's true that with lights off, they hardly look different from stock U.S. all-red version. The Euro taillights with white/clear turn lens make more of a difference.

Another approach is to get the '02-'04 taillights along with a backup light in the center bumper. Some minor rewiring would be required.


I suggest you wait until you actually have the car and live with it awhile until you get a sense of the exact look you want.

 

Well, this will be my 13th Mini. I have owned various years of the hardtop and coupe. I will make certain I find the EXACT Mini this time around however. All of the other ones, I convinced myself I would like the color/seat combo/options. Not this time--I will look and look until I find the exact one--even if it means I have to pay a little more for it. Now I have to decide just what it is I exactly want. ��

I am in no hurry.