Best Tail Light Replacement for Audi S5 B9 (2018–2023)
If you drive a B9 Audi S5, you already know it’s not just another luxury coupe—it’s a clean, high-performance machine. And while…
If you drive a B9 Audi S5, you already know it’s not just another luxury coupe—it’s a clean, high-performance machine. And while the factory LED tail lights are sleek, they start to look dated after a few years. Whether you’re dealing with cracks, moisture, or just want to spice up the rear end with sequential indicators or smoked housings, this guide breaks down the best tail light replacement for Audi S5 B9 — with deep dives, product picks, install tips, and more.
I’ll break it all down like I’m talking to a fellow enthusiast, not tossing you a generic parts list. This is what I’d send to my own crew if they asked me what tail lights are worth buying for their S5.
Why Even Bother Upgrading Your Tail Lights?
Let’s be honest. Even though Audi’s OEM LEDs look nice, there’s always room for improvement. Most tail lights are designed to last years, but not forever. Some people upgrade for looks, others because their factory lights are fogging or cracked. And then there are those of us who just want to flex a little harder.
Here’s why upgrading is a good idea:
- Your tail lights might be fading, scratched, or chipped.
- Sequential LED indicators instantly modernize your S5.
- Aftermarket options can add dynamic startup animations.
- Smoked housings add that stealthy vibe.
- Visibility and brake light brightness can actually improve.
Plus, if you’re already upgrading the headlights or grille, it makes sense to match that refreshed energy at the rear.
Tail Light Basics: What You’re Working With
| Spec | Factory Setup |
|---|---|
| Years | 2018–2023 |
| Lighting Type | Full LED |
| Turn Signal | Basic LED (not sequential) |
| Common Issues | Moisture, fading, scratches |
| Facelift Year | 2020 |
A lot of the aftermarket kits are plug-and-play for both pre- and post-facelift B9 S5s, but you should still double-check fitment for your exact year.
OEM vs Aftermarket Tail Lights
Let’s get this out of the way. You can always go OEM. But there’s a reason most modded B9s you see on IG or forums have aftermarket tails.
✅ OEM Pros:
- Factory quality
- Guaranteed fitment
- No coding necessary
❌ OEM Cons:
- Ridiculously expensive ($1,200+ per side)
- No real design change
- No sequential signals or animations
🔥 Aftermarket Pros:
- Full customization (black housings, animations, smoked lenses)
- Brighter output and better modern design
- Lower cost for more features
⚠️ Aftermarket Cons:
- May require OBDeleven coding (errors, behavior tweaks)
- Build quality can vary
In my experience, if you’re going for anything more than a simple replacement, aftermarket is 100% the way to go.
🔥 Best Amazon Pick: Morimoto XB LED Tail Lights
- Blacked-out housing
- Sequential LED turn signals
- Start-up animation
- Plug-and-play
Why it’s sick:
- Clean RS-level styling
- Replaces all lighting functions: brake, reverse, turn
- OEM+ fitment and wiring
They cost more, but they’re absolutely top-tier. I’ve seen these installed on an S5 with a full carbon package—it was chef’s kiss.
🔥 Best AliExpress Pick: VLAND RS-Style LED Tail Lights
- Full LED with sequential turns
- Bold DRL brake design
- Smoked lens option
- Affordable
The VLAND tails look super aggressive. They take a bit longer to arrive, but the price is unbeatable and they legit look like they belong on an RS5.
How to Install Audi S5 B9 Tail Lights
Tools Needed:
- Torx bits (T20/T25)
- 10mm socket
- Plastic trim tools
- Optional: OBDeleven or VCDS
Step-by-Step:
- Open trunk and remove side trunk panels
- Disconnect harnesses
- Remove bolts holding tail light in place
- Carefully remove factory unit
- Align and bolt in the new tail light
- Reconnect harness
- Check all lighting functions
- Use OBDeleven to clear any codes or errors
It’s honestly one of the easier mods you can do—takes 30–60 minutes total.
Tail Light Comparison Table
| Feature | OEM Tail Light | Morimoto XB | VLAND RS Style |
| Sequential Turns | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Start-up Animation | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Smoked Option | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Brightness | Good | Excellent | Very Good |
| Price Range (pair) | $2,400+ | ~$1,000 | ~$400–$600 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying for A5 instead of S5
- Forgetting to code new tail light behavior
- Not sealing gaskets = moisture issues
- Rushing install and breaking clips
If you’re buying VLAND, check reviews for your exact year. Some sellers label stuff poorly.
What Mods Pair Best with Tail Light Upgrades?
- Blacked-out badges and emblems
- RS-style rear diffuser
- Carbon rear lip spoiler
- Smoked reflectors
- Rear window spoiler
Knock all these out and you’ve got a proper S5 rear end that’ll turn heads every time.
Real-Owner Thoughts
“I swapped the OEMs with VLAND smoked LEDs—game changer. The sequential turns make the car look 5 years newer.” – Jason K.
“Morimoto killed it again. Super clean finish, super bright. Expensive but worth it for the fit and finish.” – Bryan N.
“Install was easy, but I had to code out the errors. OBDeleven made it simple.” – Mike R.
Final Thoughts
If your S5’s rear end is still rocking the factory tails and you want a little more style, performance, or personality, upgrading your tail lights is easily one of the best bang-for-your-buck mods you can do.
Whether you want OEM fitment with an OEM+ look or something that screams RS5, you’ve got solid options. Just be sure you pick the right fitment, use a trusted seller, and take your time on the install.
When it comes to the best tail light replacement for Audi S5 B9, my money’s on Morimoto for quality and VLAND for value. Either way, your car’s about to look a whole lot meaner from the back.
Drop a comment or hit me up if you want help choosing based on your trim or year.
Stay lit, stay clean, and never let your mods be basic.