2020 Explorer XLT Taillight Swap with 2025 LED Version – Compatibility Questions

[PoliceWag]

Hi everyone,

I’m considering upgrading the taillights on my 2020 Explorer XLT to the new LED versions from the 2025 model.

From what I’ve gathered through a Facebook post, the liftgate must also be replaced, as the new taillights do not fit with the existing one.

I have a couple of questions and would greatly appreciate any insights:

1. Liftgate Compatibility: Does anyone know if the 2025 liftgate is plug-and-play with the 2020 model? Specifically, do they use the same connectors and wiring?
2. Taillight Compatibility: Do the taillights from the 2020 and 2025 models share the same connectors and wiring, or will additional modifications be required?

Thanks in advance for your time and assistance.

Best regards,

(Note: I would like to keep the powered liftgate fonction)

Facebook post :

 

[PlatinumOwner]

Why? I think the 20-24 models look MUCH better

 

[PoliceWag]

Still looking for info

 

[themishmosh]

Why? I think the 20-24 models look MUCH better

Ditto. Optionally, get a pair of ST tail lights that are tinted on the sides. They have the on Ebay or Aliexpress brand new.

 

[utilitytristin]

Definitely is possible to do if the lift gate can accommodate for it. Unlike 2016-2019 from 2011-2015, the lift gate got changed, and you couldn't put the newer ones on if you didn't change the lift gate out.

Definitely will need some sort of conversion harness because the 20-24 ones have halogen bulbs. The new one will probably just have one plug only.

 

[hbalek]

Definitely is possible to do if the lift gate can accommodate for it. Unlike 2016-2019 from 2011-2015, the lift gate got changed, and you couldn't put the newer ones on if you didn't change the lift gate out.

Definitely will need some sort of conversion harness because the 20-24 ones have halogen bulbs. The new one will probably just have one plug only.

The liftgate did get changed on the 2025.

 

[utilitytristin]

The liftgate did get changed on the 2025.

View attachment 464223View attachment 464226

It did, yes. I'm implying the actual shape of the lift gate. If that hasn't been changed, then you should be able to fit 2025 taillights onto it. 2011-2015 and 2016-2019 had different lift gate dimensions entirely.