Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Tail lights

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero tail-lights

Tail-lights are absolutely fitted to the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. Factory literature such as the Mitsubishi Pajero (Gen 1 L040/L140) workshop manual’s Electrical section identifies the rear combination lamp assembly as including tail (rear position) lamps alongside stop, indicator and reverse lamps. Period owner’s manuals for 1987 models list dual‑filament stop/tail bulbs (commonly 21/5 W). Regulatory standards in Australia and New Zealand of the era—ADR 13/00 (installation of lighting, harmonised with UNECE R48) and equivalent NZ vehicle lighting requirements—also mandate rear position lamps for passenger vehicles. So, tail-lights aren’t optional on a 1987 Pajero, they’re standard and required.

On a 1987 Pajero, the tail-lights live inside the rear combination lamp assemblies on both corners. Their job’s simple but critical: when the parkers or headlights are on, the red rear position lamps glow so other road users can see the vehicle from behind at night or in dodgy weather. They’re separate from the brighter brake lights, but most models use a dual‑filament bulb to do both jobs. Some trims also have a rear fog lamp, and there’s a separate lamp for the licence plate.

Servicing is straightforward and well within weekend-warrior territory. Access is via the rear trim near the lamp cluster—remove the fasteners, ease the lamp out, and twist the bulb holders to swap bulbs. Use quality 21/5 W dual‑filament bulbs (BAY15d fitment is common) and replace in pairs so brightness is even side to side. If going LED, choose ADR/ECE‑compliant units and be mindful that while tail circuits won’t cause hyperflash, cheap LEDs can create dim or patchy output, test before refitting.

Keep an eye on the clear and red lenses for cracks and UV haze—damaged lenses mute output and invite water in. If there’s moisture, inspect the seals and the housing, a bead of butyl or a fresh gasket usually sorts leaks. Check earth points and bulb sockets for corrosion and give them a dab of dielectric grease. If both tails are out, check the “TAIL/PARK” fuse and the headlight/park switch. Towing setups on old Pajeros can introduce wiring gremlins, so inspect any trailer plug wiring for scotch‑locks and crusty joins.

• Recommended checks: lenses, seals, bulb condition, sockets/earths, fuses, and trailer wiring.
• Handy spares: a pair of 21/5 W bulbs, a 10 A fuse, contact cleaner, and a small tube of dielectric grease.

Do that, and the Pajero’s rear end stays visible and legal—easy as.

Popular questions

What bulb type fits the 1987 Pajero tail-lights?
Most 1987 Pajeros use a dual‑filament 21/5 W stop/tail bulb with a BAY15d base in each rear combination lamp. Licence plate lamps are typically small 5 W wedge or capless types. Always cross‑check against the vehicle handbook or the markings on the existing bulb holder before buying.

Why do my Pajero tail-lights keep blowing?
Frequent failures usually point to poor earths, corroded sockets, water ingress, or cheap bulbs. Voltage spikes from a weak battery or alternator issues can also shorten bulb life. Clean the sockets, fix any leaks, verify charging voltage is around 13.8–14.4 V with the engine running, and use quality brand bulbs.

Can I fit LED tail-lights and stay legal in Australia/NZ?
Yes, provided the LEDs are compliant with ADR/UNECE requirements for rear position and stop lamps and produce the correct red colour and brightness. For classic housings, use quality LED retrofit bulbs designed for reflector housings. In NZ, the vehicle still needs to pass WOF checks, in AU, it must meet ADR requirements—so pick known‑brand, compliant parts and test the light pattern.