So, you're thinking about giving your 2013 Scion FRS that aggressive, sleek look with some smoked headlights? Awesome choice, guys! Smoked headlights can seriously transform the appearance of your ride, making it stand out from the crowd. But before you dive in, let's break down everything you need to know about achieving that perfect smoked look, whether you're considering a DIY approach or opting for pre-smoked headlights. We'll cover the different methods, potential legal issues, and provide some tips to ensure your Scion FRS looks killer while staying safe on the road.

Why Smoked Headlights on Your Scion FRS?

Let's be real, the main reason anyone gets smoked headlights is for the aesthetics. They just look cool! The darker lenses give your car a more mysterious and aggressive vibe. It's a relatively inexpensive way to customize your vehicle and make it your own. Think of it as giving your FRS a permanent Instagram filter – instantly cooler. Beyond the looks, some argue that smoked headlights can even offer a bit of protection to the headlight lenses themselves, shielding them from minor scratches and the sun's harmful UV rays. However, that's more of a secondary benefit than the primary reason people make the switch.

Options for Achieving the Smoked Look

Okay, so you're sold on the idea. Now, how do you actually get those smoked headlights? You've basically got two main paths to choose from:

1. DIY Smoked Headlight Tinting

This involves using a special tinting film or spray to darken your existing headlights. It's generally the more budget-friendly option, but it requires some patience and skill to get right. Here’s a breakdown:

• Tint Films: These are adhesive films that you apply directly to the surface of the headlight. They come in various shades, allowing you to control the level of darkness. The key here is to get a high-quality film that's designed specifically for headlights. Cheaper films can bubble, crack, or fade over time, leaving you with a less-than-desirable result. You'll need to clean the headlight thoroughly, carefully apply the film, and use a heat gun to mold it to the contours of the lens. Air bubbles are your enemy, so take your time and use a squeegee to smooth everything out. There are tons of videos on Youtube that show the exact steps, so you can learn from the pros.
• Tint Sprays: These are essentially spray paints designed to tint transparent surfaces. Like films, they come in different shades, from light smoke to almost black. Spraying requires even more finesse than applying films. You need to mask off the surrounding areas of your car to prevent overspray, apply several thin coats of the tint, and allow each coat to dry properly before applying the next. Too much spray at once can lead to runs and drips, which are a pain to fix. Also, keep in mind that once you spray, it’s much harder to undo compared to film.

2. Pre-Smoked Headlight Assemblies

This involves buying completely new headlight units that already have the smoked lens. This is the more expensive option, but it's also generally the easier and safer route. Here’s what to consider:

• Plug-and-Play: Many aftermarket manufacturers offer pre-smoked headlight assemblies that are designed to be a direct replacement for your factory headlights. This means they should plug right into the existing wiring harness without any modification. This is a huge time-saver and reduces the risk of messing something up. However, always double-check the product description to ensure compatibility with your specific year and model of Scion FRS.
• Quality and Brightness: When buying pre-smoked headlights, pay close attention to the quality of the lens and the brightness of the bulbs. Some cheaper options may use low-quality lenses that can yellow or fade over time, and the included bulbs might not be as bright as your original ones. Read reviews and do your research to find a reputable brand that offers a good balance of looks and performance. You don’t want to sacrifice safety for style.

Potential Legal Issues

Before you commit to smoking your headlights, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications. Headlight regulations vary from state to state (and even country to country), so what's legal in one place might not be in another. The main concern is light output. Smoked headlights reduce the amount of light that passes through the lens, which can impair your visibility at night and make it harder for other drivers to see you. Many jurisdictions have minimum light transmittance standards for headlights, and if your smoked headlights don't meet those standards, you could get a ticket. Some areas might even require you to remove the tint or replace the headlights altogether.

• Research Local Laws: Before doing anything, check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency's website for headlight regulations. Look for information on light transmittance requirements and any specific rules regarding headlight modifications. It’s always better to be informed than to be surprised by a ticket.
• Consider Light Smoke: If you're concerned about legality, opt for a lighter shade of smoke. This will still give you a noticeable aesthetic improvement without significantly reducing light output. You can also use a light meter to measure the light transmittance of your headlights after tinting them. This will give you a concrete number to compare against your local regulations.
• Proper Bulbs: If you do go with smoked headlights, consider upgrading to brighter bulbs to compensate for the reduced light output. LED bulbs are a popular choice because they produce a lot of light while consuming less energy. However, make sure the bulbs you choose are compatible with your headlight housings and that they don't produce excessive glare, which can also be illegal.

Step-by-Step: DIY Smoked Headlight Tinting (Film)

Alright, so you're the adventurous type and want to try tinting your headlights yourself? Here's a general guide using tint film. Remember, this is just a general overview. Always refer to the specific instructions that come with your tint film.

1. Gather Your Supplies:
   • High-quality headlight tint film
   • Spray bottle with water and a drop of soap
   • Heat gun or hair dryer
   • Squeegee
   • Microfiber cloths
   • Scissors or a sharp knife
   • Masking tape
2. Clean the Headlights: Thoroughly clean the headlight lenses with soap and water to remove any dirt, grime, or wax. Then, wipe them down with isopropyl alcohol to remove any remaining residue. The cleaner the surface, the better the film will adhere.
3. Cut the Film: Cut a piece of tint film slightly larger than the headlight lens. This will give you some extra material to work with.
4. Apply the Film: Spray the headlight lens with the soapy water solution. Then, peel the backing off the tint film and spray the adhesive side with the soapy water as well. This will allow you to reposition the film easily.
5. Position and Smooth: Carefully position the film on the headlight lens. Use the squeegee to smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles, working from the center outwards. The soapy water will help the film slide around and conform to the shape of the lens.
6. Heat and Mold: Use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently heat the film. This will make it more pliable and allow it to conform to the curves of the headlight lens. Be careful not to overheat the film, as this can cause it to shrink or burn. Continue to use the squeegee to smooth out any wrinkles as you heat the film.
7. Trim the Excess: Once the film is completely smooth and wrinkle-free, use a sharp knife or scissors to trim off any excess film around the edges of the headlight lens. Leave a small margin of film around the edge and tuck it behind the headlight housing for a clean look.
8. Final Touches: Wipe down the headlight lens with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining water or soap solution. Inspect the film for any imperfections and use the heat gun and squeegee to correct them. Let the film dry completely before driving your car.

Tips for Success

• Practice Makes Perfect: If you've never tinted headlights before, consider practicing on a scrap piece of plastic or even an old headlight lens. This will give you a feel for the process and help you avoid mistakes on your actual headlights.
• Work in a Clean Environment: Dust and debris can get trapped under the tint film, so work in a clean, well-lit area. Avoid working outdoors on a windy day.
• Take Your Time: Rushing the process can lead to mistakes, so take your time and be patient. It's better to spend a few extra hours and get it right than to have to redo the job.
• Watch Videos: There are tons of helpful videos online that show the entire tinting process step-by-step. Watch a few of these videos before you start to get a better understanding of what's involved.

Maintaining Your Smoked Headlights

Once you've got those smoked headlights installed, you'll want to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your headlights regularly with soap and water to remove any dirt, grime, or bug splatter. This will help to maintain their clarity and prevent them from becoming cloudy.
• UV Protection: The sun's UV rays can damage the tint film over time, causing it to fade or crack. Apply a UV protectant spray to your headlights regularly to help prevent this.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your smoked headlights, as these can damage the tint film. Stick to mild soap and water.

Conclusion

Smoked headlights are a fantastic way to enhance the look of your 2013 Scion FRS. Whether you choose the DIY route with tint film or opt for pre-smoked assemblies, the key is to do your research, understand the legal implications, and take your time. With a little effort, you can achieve that perfect, aggressive look while staying safe and legal on the road. So, go ahead and give your FRS that personalized touch it deserves! Just remember to double-check those local laws and prioritize safety, alright guys? Happy modding!