Overview
Transform your '94-'95 Celica's amber corner lights into sleek clear corners with this DIY fabrication guide. This modification creates a clean, modern look while maintaining functionality. The process involves carefully removing the amber lens and creating a custom clear replacement using office lighting materials.
🕒 Time Required: 2 Hours + Drying Time
💰 Cost: $15-25 (materials)
🔧 Tools: Heat gun, office lighting material, adhesive
Required Tools & Materials
🔧 Tools
- Jigsaw with fine blade
- Bench grinder or sandpaper (various grits)
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Drill with small bits
- Clamps
- Safety glasses and gloves
📦 Materials
- Clear office lighting material (fluorescent light cover)
- Silicone caulk (clear)
- Strong adhesive (epoxy resin recommended)
🚨 Important Safety Notes
- Always wear safety glasses when cutting or grinding materials
- Use proper ventilation when working with adhesives and sealants
- Heat gun can cause burns - handle with care
- Work in a well-lit area to ensure precision cutting
- Test fit frequently to avoid material waste
Installation Steps
Step 1: Remove Turn Signal Assemblies
Start by removing your stock turn signals from your bumper by removing the screw that holds each assembly in place. Carefully disconnect the electrical connector and set the assemblies aside on a clean work surface.
Step 2: Separate the Amber Lens
Heat the glue on the edges of the amber lens using a heat gun or hair dryer until it becomes very soft. Carefully pry the amber lens off the housing. Be patient and work slowly to avoid melting or cracking the lens. This step can take 15-20 minutes per assembly.
Step 3: Create Template and Cut Clear Lens
Use the original amber lens as a template to trace onto the clear office lighting material. Make the pattern slightly larger than needed - you can always trim it down later, but you can't add material back. Cut out the pattern using a jigsaw with a fine blade for smooth cuts.
Step 4: Test Fit and Sand to Size
Test fit the clear lens on the signal housing. Using a bench grinder or progressively finer sandpaper, carefully sand the edges until the lens sits perfectly flush with the housing. Take your time with this step for a professional appearance.
Step 5: Prepare Mounting Point
Carefully drill a hole in the lens where the retaining screw will pass through, matching the original mounting point. Alternatively, you can modify the assembly to use a wing-nut-headed screw from the back of the bumper for a cleaner appearance.
Step 6: Optional: Paint Housing Interior
For better light reflection and a more professional look, consider painting the inside of the light housing with silver or chrome paint. This step will improve the brightness and appearance of your turn signals, though it's not absolutely necessary.
Step 7: Bond Lens to Housing
Apply a consistent bead of strong adhesive (epoxy resin works best) between the new clear lens and the housing. Ensure even coverage around the entire perimeter. Clamp the two pieces together firmly and allow to cure overnight for maximum strength.
Step 8: Seal and Install
Before final installation, seal all edges with clear silicone caulk to prevent water intrusion into the housing. Allow the sealant to cure completely, then reinstall the turn signals in your car by reversing the removal process. Test all functions before driving.
Expected Results
Upon completion, you'll have custom clear corner lights that provide a cleaner, more modern appearance while maintaining full functionality. The clear lenses will allow your amber bulbs to show through when activated while appearing clear when off, giving your '94-'95 Celica a subtle but noticeable upgrade.
🔧 Functionality: Maintains all original turn signal operations
🛡️ Durability: When properly sealed, should last as long as original equipment
💡 Pro Tips
- Material Selection: Use the thickest clear lighting material you can find - it's more durable and easier to work with than thin plastic.
- Heating Technique: Keep the heat gun moving to avoid creating hot spots that could warp or damage the plastic components.
- Sanding Strategy: Start with coarser grit and work your way to finer grits for the smoothest edge finish.
- Weather Sealing: Apply sealant in dry conditions and allow full cure time - moisture trapped during curing can cause premature failure.
- Color Considerations: If you want colored light output, consider using colored bulbs rather than tinted lenses for better light transmission.