Lights & Lighting

Are your lights too weak on dark gravel roads, or does your off-road build need auxiliary lights on the roof and at the A-pillars? In this category we bring together lighting for passenger cars, off-road vehicles and powersports – from LED strips and fog lights to LED bars and mounting brackets. These parts are for you if you want to see better, be seen more clearly or give your build a more personal look.

Road lighting, off-road lights and powersports

The category is divided into three. Automotive lighting covers lights for road use and styling, e.g. LED strips from ORACLE Lighting. Under off-road lighting you will find auxiliary lights such as LED bars, light pods and fog light kits as well as brackets, e.g. A-pillar brackets from Rigid Industries for the Toyota 4Runner and Tundra. Powersports lighting has its own subcategory.

How to choose lighting

Start with the purpose: should the lights improve visibility in the dark, make the vehicle more visible or create a particular look? Then consider these factors:

• Beam pattern: A narrow beam typically throws light far ahead, while a wide beam illuminates the roadside and terrain close to the vehicle. The right choice depends on speed and surface.
• Size and placement: A long LED bar such as the 50-inch KC HiLiTES Gravity Titan needs space on the roof or bumper, while the Rigid Industries 360-Series is available as 4- and 6-inch lights.
• Power draw: Powerful auxiliary lights can put a load on the electrical system. Use a relay, a fuse and the wire gauge specified by the manufacturer.
• Appearance: Some lights feature backlighting or interchangeable covers, e.g. the Rigid Industries x SHREDDY kits with covers in several colours.

Installation and maintenance

Vehicle-specific brackets make installation easier and place the lights in a well-thought-out position, e.g. the Rigid Industries roof bracket for the 2021+ Ford Bronco or DV8 Offroad's third brake light extension bracket for the 2021-2022 Bronco. Universal lights require you to find a solid mounting point yourself and route the wiring away from heat and moving parts. Regularly check seals and connectors so no moisture gets in, and retighten brackets after driving on rough terrain.

Legality and inspection

Whether a light may be used on public roads depends on the product, the vehicle and the installation. Check the E-mark for the specific part number, and be aware that some auxiliary lights may be intended for off-road or closed-course use only. This applies to all brands in the category, including e.g. Diode Dynamics, Baja Designs, ANZO and Raxiom – read the specifications for the individual product before you order.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive with an LED bar on public roads?

It depends on the light, the vehicle, and how it is mounted and wired. Check whether the specific part number is E-marked for the function you want to use it for. Lights intended for off-road use only must not be used on the road.

What is the difference between an LED bar and compact light pods?

An LED bar typically provides a wide spread of light from one location, while compact pods can be placed in several locations, e.g. at the A-pillars or in the bumper. The choice depends on space, the desired beam pattern and how much power the electrical system has to supply.

Can I install auxiliary lights myself?

With vehicle-specific brackets and a complete wiring harness, installation can often be done with ordinary tools. However, the connection to the electrical system must be done correctly with a relay and fuse. If in doubt, let a workshop wire up the lights.

Why does my LED light fog up on the inside?

Moisture can get in through a damaged gasket, a crack in the lens or a leaking cable grommet. Condensation can also form with large temperature changes. Check seals and joints, and follow the manufacturer's instructions on venting or repair.