Tacoma Armor Discussion: Skid Plates and Oil Change Access

k2idle · 2025-10-02T16:50:31+00:00

Fang Light Buyers Guide for the 4th Gen Tacoma I’ve been digging into fang light options for the new Tacoma and figured I’d put a guide together. The factory setup leaves the “fang” slots blank, and while it’s not a must-have, adding fang lights really cleans up the front end. They bring in modern DRL accents, sequential turn signals, and in some cases even startup animations that make the truck feel a step above stock. Fog Lights vs Fang Lights Fang Lights Accent lighting that fills the “fang” slots near the lower grille Usually DRL, sequential turn, or amber/white accent modes More about the front end looks Fog Lights Fog light buyers guide here: https://4gtaco.com/threads/fog-lights-for-4th-gen-tacoma.1283/#post-4501 Wide, low beam pattern built for cutting through fog, snow, rain, or dust Mount in the factory fog pockets Pure function and visibility boost Baja Designs S1 Vent Kit Unique kit that mounts S1 pods in the lower bumper vents. Compact, powerful pods Fits factory vent openings Amber or clear options Check price online: https://www.bajadesigns.com/products/toyota-s1-vent-kit-2024-on-toyota-tacoma Aspire V2 Fang Lights One of the more popular fang light kits right now. DRL and sequential turn signal functions Fits into fang slots cleanly Bright accent lighting Check price online: https://www.aspireautoaccessories.com/products/aspire-v2-fang-lights-for-tacoma-2024-2025 Rave Offroad Smoked Fang Lights Smoked lens kit with DRL startup animation and sequential amber turn signals. Stealth look that blends into the grille Clean DRL startup effect Plug-and-play Check price online: https://raveoffroad.com/products/smoked-fang-lights-with-startup-drl-sequential-turn-for-2024-tacoma LED Factory Mart Fang Lights These replace the factory fogs with LEDs that double as white DRLs and amber sequential turn signals. A good mix of style and function in one kit. White DRL mode plus amber turn signals Plug-and-play Sealed housings for durability Check price online: https://www.ledfactorymart.com/products/2024-2025-toyota-tacoma-fog-lights-with-drl-sequential-turn-signals Final Thoughts I think fang lights are one of the best ways to add a more aggressive look to the 4th Gen Tacoma’s front end. They add that DRL signature, startup animation, and sequential turn function that makes the truck look a class above stock. The smoked or clear lens options let you pick between stealthy or bright, and the install is usually plug-and-play. If you care about style, clean lines, and standing out at night or in a parking lot, fang lights are an upgrade you’ll notice every time you walk up to the truck.

TrdMarkey

Member

Jul 7, 2025

I recently added some factory armor to the front and differential of my Tacoma. I'm still waiting for the sliders to arrive and mulling over whether to get the transfer case skid plate available for the Trailhunter model.

One thing caught my eye: the new TRD front skid plate no longer has an access point for oil changes. I’m guessing this is because the oil filter’s been relocated, which I'm still yet to confirm. I can't lie, this really stood out compared to older plates I’ve checked out.