lens missing

In the "good old days" all rear lenses had to be diffused - it was a fail if a lens wasn't diffused or missing and clear coloured tape wasn't an adequate repair. That all changed a few years back when clear lenses started appearing, I guess due to a change in the construction and use regulations. Not having a lens (even if a diffused one was fitted originally) is now a pass and advise as long as the colour is correct (amber for indicators, red for stop lights, rear fog lights and tail lights, etc).