LED Tail Lights Wiring Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide

LED tail lights are a popular upgrade for vehicles due to its long life span and energy efficiency. However, installing them can be a bit challenging for those who aren’t familiar with car wiring. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to wire LED tail lights, including diagrams, tips, and FAQs.

Table of Contents

Understanding LED Tail Lights

Before we dive into the wiring of LED tail lights, let’s first understand what it is and how it works. LED stands for light-emitting diode, which is a type of semiconductor device that emits light when current flows through it. LED tail lights are a type of car light that uses LED technology to light up the back of your vehicle.

Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED tail lights offer several advantages such as:

  • Long life span of up to 50,000 hours
  • Energy-efficient
  • Brighter and clearer illumination
  • Easier to customize and upgrade

Now that we have a basic understanding of LED tail lights, let’s proceed to the next section where we’ll discuss the tools you’ll need to wire them.

Tools You’ll Need

Wiring LED tail lights requires some basic tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

  • LED tail lights
  • Wire stripper/cutter
  • Electrical tape
  • Crimping tool
  • Screwdrivers
  • Multimeter
  • Zip ties

Make sure to have these tools on hand before you start wiring your LED tail lights.

Wiring Diagram for LED Tail Lights

Before you start wiring your LED tail lights, it’s essential to have a wiring diagram to guide you through the process. Below is an example of a wiring diagram for LED tail lights:

Wire Color Function
Brown Tail Lights
Yellow Left Turn Signal
Green Right Turn Signal
White Ground
Red Brake Lights

Refer to this wiring diagram as you wire your LED tail lights.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Wire LED Tail Lights

Step 1: Remove the Old Tail Lights

Before you install your new LED tail lights, remove the old ones first. Depending on your vehicle, this may involve unscrewing and unplugging them from the wiring harness.

Step 2: Test the LED Tail Lights

Before you wire the LED tail lights, it’s crucial to test them first to make sure they’re working correctly. Attach the tail lights to a power source and test the turn signals, brake lights, and tail lights.

Step 3: Strip the Wires

Using a wire stripper, strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire of the LED tail lights and the corresponding wires of your vehicle.

Step 4: Connect the Wires

Connect the corresponding wires of the LED tail lights to the wires of your vehicle. Use a crimping tool to attach the wires securely. To make sure the connections are firm, give them a tug to ensure that they don’t come apart.

Step 5: Secure the Wires

After connecting the wires, secure them with electrical tape and zip ties to prevent them from coming loose and causing a short circuit.

Step 6: Test the LED Tail Lights Again

Test the LED tail lights again to make sure everything is working correctly. If you notice any issues, double-check your connections and wiring.

FAQs

Q: Why are LED tail lights better than traditional bulbs?

A: LED tail lights offer several advantages over traditional incandescent bulbs. They have a longer life span, are more energy-efficient, and offer brighter and clearer illumination.

Q: Can I install LED tail lights on my own?

A: Yes, you can install LED tail lights on your own. However, it requires some basic knowledge of car wiring and electrical systems. If you’re not confident with your skills, it’s best to have a professional install them for you.

Q: What happens if I wire LED tail lights incorrectly?

A: If you wire LED tail lights incorrectly, it can cause short circuits, which can damage your vehicle’s electrical system. It can also result in the lights not working correctly or not working at all.

Q: How do I troubleshoot LED tail lights?

A: If you’re having issues with your LED tail lights, start by double-checking your connections and wiring. Make sure everything is connected correctly and that there are no loose wires. You can also use a multimeter to check if there’s power running through the wires.

Q: Can I customize the color of my LED tail lights?

A: Yes, you can customize the color of your LED tail lights. However, make sure to check your state’s laws and regulations on car lighting before making any modifications.

Conclusion

Wiring LED tail lights may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a task that you can do on your own. Always refer to a wiring diagram, double-check your connections, and test the lights before hitting the road. If you’re unsure of your skills, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional.