Skip to main content
Blog
Photography By: 
JL Wrangler Forums

One of the spy photographers out there saw an opening, literally, then focused the camera and recently captured a first real look at a production ready 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL LED taillight. And what we can see is a lamp that has now progressed well into what many consider a modern taillight style, versus what Jeep has put out there in all its previous Wrangler models.

The folks over at JL Wrangler Forums were the first to post shots of this new style taillight, which displays a shape and look we have seen lit up under camo from time to time over the past months, as well as tailgate shots from a Jeep dealer meeting last fall.

The nice thing to see is the JL Wrangler taillights do not have an exact match to the smaller Renegade 'X' design like we had heard from various people last summer. Perhaps that smaller light was the original design for the testing mules, but this model certainly looks better. The taillight does have a slight X outline, but it is more of an hourglass shape - with three LED lights stacked inside what could be considered an inner section. They also appear slightly larger and wider than the current JK taillights, but that could just be the photography angle.

Here is the current Renegade tail light:


Current JK tail light:

Another side benefit of this spy shot on the JL tail light is a glance at the new Wrangler's tailgate hinge, which looks to be redesigned as well and is minus the plastic overlay that marked its JK edition. Perhaps a little thinner as well.

Currently, the 2018 JL Wrangler is expected to begin production this November.

Top Jeep Articles

  • September 10, 2026
  • 5 min read
Breathing Easy: What Is a Jeep Snorkel and Do You Need One
Learn how a raised air intake helps protect your Jeep from water ingestion and trail dust—and why a snorkel alone does not increase its factory water-fording limit.
READ MORE
  • September 9, 2026
  • 7 min read
What Winch Size Do I Need for My Jeep?
From GVWR and trail conditions to drum layers and electrical demand, learn how to choose a winch with the right pulling capacity for your Jeep.
READ MORE
  • September 9, 2026
  • 4 min read
Quadratec Jeep Licensed Tailgate Bike Cover Review: Bike Protection for the Gladiator JT
We put this Jeep-licensed tailgate cover to the test on real trail runs to see how well it shields bikes from road grime, dust, and highway debris.
READ MORE
  • September 8, 2026
  • 5 min read
How to Choose the Right Tires for a Jeep Wrangler 4xe
The Wrangler 4xe’s added weight and instant torque demand more from its tires. Learn how load index, tire size, tread design and driving habits can help determine the right choice.
READ MORE
Black side steps on a red Jeep Wrangler
  • September 4, 2026
  • 4 min read
Side Steps Q&A
From daily convenience to off-road durability, we answer the most common Jeep side step questions to help you choose, install and maintain the right setup for your build.
READ MORE
  • August 28, 2026
  • 4 min read
How to Care for Your Jeep Wrangler Soft Top: The Ultimate Maintenance Guide
Beat the summer sun, heavy storms, and trail wear. Master the essentials of washing, window care, UV protection, and hardware upkeep to keep your Jeep top looking factory-fresh.
READ MORE