Porsche 991.1 Tail Lights: AlphaRex LED Install on a 911 GT3

Porsche 991.1 tail lights are one of the few parts of that generation that look dated next to the 991.2. The factory units are flat, while the later car got a deeper, more three dimensional look. We finally changed that on our own 991.1 GT3 with the new AlphaRex LED tail lights, and the whole swap took two screws per side.

The short answer: AlphaRex NOVA-Series LED tail lights are a direct-fit, plug-in replacement for the 2012 to 2016 Porsche 911 (991.1). Each side comes off with two Torx screws under the rear lid, the new light plugs into the factory connector with no coding, and you get full LED lighting, sequential turn signals and a startup sequence.

The set we installed is the AlphaRex Premium LED Tail Lights for the 2012 to 2016 Porsche 911 (991.1). Watch the full install and the lights coming on, then read the notes below before you start on your own car.

Why the 991.1 needed better tail lights

If you own a 991.1 GT3, you already know the aftermarket barely exists for it. The mod everyone does is the GT3 Cup conversion, and after that the list gets short. There is no real lip kit or body kit scene for this car. Our own GT3 already wears a 991.2 GT3 RS piece we retrofitted to sharpen the stance, but the rear lights stayed stock because there was nothing good to swap in.

That is what made this release exciting for us. AlphaRex built these specifically for the 991.1 chassis, and as far as we know, ours was the first car in the US to get them. Beat-Sonic now carries the full AlphaRex lighting range, and we install these in house.

Choosing a finish for your Porsche 991.1 tail lights

There are four finishes, and each ships as a complete left and right pair with the same LED internals. Only the look changes:

• Red Smoke: smoked outer lens with red internals. Dark when off, vivid red when lit. This is the one on our car, because it echoes the 991.2 GT3 RS without going too dark.
• Red Clear: clear outer lens with red internals, the closest to the factory appearance.
• Black Clear: blacked-out housing with a clear lens. Sharp on white, silver and GT Silver cars. Listed as pre-order at the time of writing.
• Black Smoke: black internals and a smoked lens, the darkest option and nearly invisible until lit.

A note on how these finishes are described: in the video our presenter lists them from memory with slightly different names. The four above are the exact finish names on the product page, and that is what you will pick from at checkout.

Check fitment before you order

In the video we say the lights suit the other 991.1 models, not just the GT3. The product page is more precise, so follow it. These are built for the standard 2012 to 2016 911 (991.1) coupe and cabriolet. They are not currently recommended for Carrera 4, Carrera 4S or Targa models with a center brake light, because a color-matched center unit is not available yet.

That center light matters on our car too. With the red smoke tails fitted, the red third brake light now stands out, so our next step is finding a tint that matches. If you are unsure about your rear fascia, email info@beatsonicusa.com with your VIN before ordering.

How to install AlphaRex tail lights on a 991.1

The job is easy. The risk is all in handling: the most challenging part is pulling the old light out without touching the paint.

Step 1: Tape the paint

Before any tools come out, run blue painter's tape or masking tape around the top, bottom and sides of each light. Especially on your first time, it is cheap insurance against a scratch you will look at every day.

Step 2: Remove two T25 Torx screws per side

Open the rear lid. You will find two Torx screws on each side above the light. A T25 bit is the correct size. Those are the only fasteners holding each light in.

Step 3: Ease the light out and unplug it

Pull the light straight back. A light that has never been removed may need a little wiggle. The cable is short, so flip the light over close to the body, press the connector clip, and pull the connector firmly out. Keep the lamp from touching the bodywork the whole time.

Step 4: Plug in the AlphaRex unit

Push the factory connector into the new light as hard as it will go. On our car it did not click, and it may not click on yours either. Porsche connectors are very stiff, and once it will not go any further it is seated securely.

Step 5: Test before you tighten

Before the screws go back in, turn on the hazards and the lights and confirm every function works. This is where you first see the activation sequence, which is a genuine treat.

Step 6: Center it, then snug the screws gradually

Start both screws without torquing either one fully. Check the light sits centered in its opening, then tighten slowly. Remove the tape once both sides are done.

What you get when they are on

Every function is LED: tail, brake, turn and reverse. The turn signals sweep in sequence from the inner edge outward, and the lights run a startup sweep when the car powers up. There is no coding, no resistor and no dealer visit, and all factory functions are retained. The product page also states the NOVA-Series lights meet DOT lighting standards for road use in the US.

AlphaRex is based in Southern California and makes lighting for many other vehicles too, including the Lexus GX and a range of Toyotas. Each kit includes a warranty registration card.

More ways to modernize a 991.1

Lighting is only one place the 991.1 shows its age. The factory PCM 3.1 screen is another, which is why we build wireless CarPlay and Android Auto kits for Porsche. If the throttle feels lazy off the line, see our post on fixing Porsche throttle lag with a response controller and the full ShiftPower lineup. Once CarPlay is in, our list of the best CarPlay apps for daily driving is a good next read. New arrivals like these lights show up first in our new products collection.

FAQ

Do AlphaRex 991.1 tail lights need coding?

No. They plug into the factory 991.1 connector and work without coding or resistors, with sequential turn signals built in.

Will they fit a Carrera 4S or Targa?

Not currently. The product page says they are not recommended for Carrera 4, Carrera 4S or Targa models with a center brake light, because a matching center unit is not available yet.

What tools do I need?

A T25 Torx driver and masking tape to protect the paint. Each side is held by two screws under the rear lid.

Why did my connector not click?

Porsche connectors are stiff and may not click. Push until it will not go further; on our car it was seated securely without a click.

Which finishes are available?

Red Smoke, Red Clear, Black Clear and Black Smoke, each sold as a left and right pair.

Get them fitted in La Mirada

Want the look without handling the lights yourself? Our La Mirada, Southern California team installs AlphaRex tail lights in house, usually same day, and we can also ship them to you if you would rather do it at home. Coming in for CarPlay, a camera or ShiftPower? Add the lights to the same visit. Ask about an AlphaRex install for your 911.