Driving in the dark can be dangerous, and it’s essential to have proper lighting to ensure your safety. Installing driving lights on your vehicle is an excellent way to improve visibility on the road, especially during nighttime or in low-light conditions. However, you need a reliable electrical system to power your lights. A 5 pin relay is an essential component in the wiring diagram for driving lights, and we’ll explain everything you need to know about it in this article.
What is a 5 Pin Relay?
A relay is an electrically operated switch that can be controlled by another circuit. A 5 pin relay has five terminals, including two for the control circuit and three for the load circuit. The control circuit is usually connected to the vehicle’s switch or computer, while the load circuit connects to the device requiring power, such as driving lights.
The five terminals of a 5 pin relay are numbered as follows:
| Terminal | Name | Description |
| 30 | Common | Main power input terminal |
| 85 | Control | Ground connection for control circuit |
| 86 | Control | Positive connection for control circuit |
| 87 | Normally Open | Output terminal that is normally open |
| 87a | Normally Closed | Output terminal that is normally closed |
Why Do You Need a 5 Pin Relay for Driving Lights?
Driving lights require a high amount of power to function correctly, and it’s not recommended to connect them directly to the vehicle’s electrical system. A 5 pin relay is used to provide adequate power to your driving lights, and it also protects your car’s electrical system from overload and damage.
When you turn on the switch for your driving lights, the control circuit of the 5 pin relay is activated. This closes the contacts of the relay, connecting the power from the main input terminal (30) to the output terminal (87). The driving lights then receive power from the output terminal of the relay, which is connected to the vehicle’s battery.
How to Wire a 5 Pin Relay for Driving Lights
Wiring a 5 pin relay for driving lights may seem complicated, but it’s a simple process that anyone can do. Here’s a step-by-step guide to wiring your 5 pin relay:
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
You will need the following tools and materials:
- A 5 pin relay
- A switch for your driving lights
- A fuse holder and a fuse
- A wire stripper and cutter
- A crimping tool or pliers
- Electrical wires (at least 16 gauge)
Step 2: Connect the Control Circuit
Connect one end of the wire to the positive terminal of your switch and the other end to terminal 86 of your 5 pin relay. Connect another wire to the ground terminal of your switch and the other end to terminal 85 of your 5 pin relay.
Step 3: Connect the Load Circuit
Connect one end of the wire to the positive terminal of your driving lights and the other end to terminal 87 of your 5 pin relay. Connect another wire to the negative terminal of your driving lights and the other end to the vehicle’s chassis or ground.
Step 4: Add a Fuse
Connect a fuse holder to the main power input terminal (30) of your 5 pin relay, and insert a fuse into the holder. This will protect your electrical system from overload and prevent damage.
Step 5: Test Your Wiring
Before closing everything up, test your wiring to make sure everything is working correctly. Turn on your vehicle’s ignition and switch on the driving lights. If the lights turn on, your wiring is working correctly.
FAQ about 5 Pin Relay Wiring Diagram for Driving Lights
Q1: Can I use a 4 pin relay for my driving lights?
A: Yes, you can use a 4 pin relay to wire your driving lights. However, a 5 pin relay is recommended for more extensive electrical systems.
Q2: Why do I need a fuse?
A: You need a fuse to protect your electrical system from overload and prevent damage. If there is a short circuit or excessive current, the fuse will blow, interrupting the circuit and preventing damage.
Q3: Can I install driving lights without a relay?
A: You can install driving lights without a relay, but it’s not recommended. Connecting the lights directly to the vehicle’s electrical system can cause damage and overload, leading to electrical problems and vehicle breakdowns.
Q4: How do I know which wire is which in the relay?
A: The wires are usually color-coded or labeled, but you can also use a multimeter to test the connections and identify the wires.
Q5: What gauge wire should I use for my driving lights?
A: You should use at least 16-gauge wire for your driving lights to ensure adequate power supply and prevent damage and overheating.
In conclusion, using a 5 pin relay is essential when wiring driving lights to your vehicle. It provides the necessary power and protection to your electrical system and prevents overload and damage. Follow the steps outlined above to wire your 5 pin relay correctly, and consult a professional if you’re unsure or need help.
