Never seen that before, but I could see some type of impact causing the plastic to break. If it wasnt a remove/install issue, could be someone bumped into it or a carwash put force on it to cause all 4 contact points to break.

 

It’s possible the automatic car wash could’ve put pressure on it and broke the front pins. I think it started to stick out and got caught in the wind on the highway and when it did it broke the back tabs that had the screws in them. I pulled the drivers and the top pin was broke also.

 

Is there a possibility that someone tried to steal the lights?

 

Never seen that before. I've replaced my bulbs a few times but never had any damage.

Crazy to think you'd see that in your rearview.

 

I think someone tried to steal your lights and probably got spooked in the middle of doing it and left before getting them.

 

Coincidentally, last week I was driving on I-5 and saw a taillight (maybe 2005 - 2006 Silverado?) on just off the left lane, and 1/4 mile down the road I saw a car with a cratered windshield, pulled over on the left shoulder. This might be something worth filing a report with NHTSA.

 

made in china

 

I received the knock-off replacement today and I’m surprised to see the 2 locating pins are steel instead of plastic like on the OE Ford taillights. Funny to see them choose to use a (I’m assuming) more expensive process.

 

When I installed my factory tailgate damper I Did remove that rear passenger light assembly.

 

I installed an aftermarket one but mine is on the driver’s side and didn’t require tail light removal.