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Replacing tail lights with LEDs?

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Old 06-01-14 | 02:29 PM
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Default Replacing tail lights with LEDs?

Hi I was wondering if it was possible to replace my brake lights, turning signals and reverse lights with LEDs?
I was thinking something like this would work?

http://www.superbrightleds.com/morei...wer-leds/1821/
Old 06-01-14 | 03:30 PM
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It is dooable but be aware that this will cause your bulb out warning light to come on, and your flasher relay to misbehave.
There are LEDs with resistors built in to eliminate this issue, or you'll have to wire your own resistors.

Others, that have actually done it are sure to chime in. Changing the license plate lights however is not an issue.

Phil

Last edited by PFB; 06-01-14 at 03:36 PM.
Old 06-01-14 | 05:50 PM
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A timely topic, I have been considering doing this as well. I have already changed my license plate lamps out and the result was amazing. I used these bulbs here: 1pcs Warm White 5 x 5050 SMD LED. These also work great for the courtesy lamps in the front doors and the rear side marker lamps as well, though the red ones are better: 1pcs Red 5 x 5050 SMD LED. I can post some pics later once I get the car back from the shop, they messed up the rear valve cover gasket it would seem.

Last edited by repairmatt; 06-01-14 at 05:59 PM.
Old 06-01-14 | 06:21 PM
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Alright doesn't sound too difficult.
I'll be doing a lot of googling but would this resistor work?
http://www.superbrightleds.com/morei...r-kit/190/831/
Any opinions?
Old 06-01-14 | 08:02 PM
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you get less lumens [usable brightness] out of LED's... Only reason I've never changed mine.

I added supplemental running lights to my tails, not made them worse off...
Old 11-10-15 | 06:48 PM
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Default LED vs Incandescent Tail light bulb Review

I put in a 7443 tail light bulb to compare to the incandescent stock bulb.

While the LED bulb was bright, the optics inside the lens causes it to show dimmer as a brake light compared to the incandescent. Not to mention the blown bulb warning light on the dash.

The only advantage was a faster transient time and redder light from the LED.

Here's a full video review comparing the two:

Old 11-10-15 | 06:58 PM
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Do you video document other things besides car mods? Everything has a video, it's insane! You are truly a great asset to this community.
Old 11-10-15 | 10:37 PM
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Originally Posted by speedkar9
I put in a 7443 tail light bulb to compare to the incandescent stock bulb.

While the LED bulb was bright, the optics inside the lens causes it to show dimmer as a brake light compared to the incandescent. Not to mention the blown bulb warning light on the dash.

The only advantage was a faster transient time and redder light from the LED.

Here's a full video review comparing the two:

LED vs Incandesent Tail Light Bulb Review - YouTube
I have the iJDMtoy ones with resistors built in.
Amazon.com: iJDMTOY No Resistor Required Brilliant Red 7440 T20 5W CREE LED Bulbs For Car Front or Rear Turn Signal Lights (No Hyper Flash and No Modification): Automotive Amazon.com: iJDMTOY No Resistor Required Brilliant Red 7440 T20 5W CREE LED Bulbs For Car Front or Rear Turn Signal Lights (No Hyper Flash and No Modification): Automotive
They are just as bright as the incandescent bulbs with the benefit of faster illumination and clearer on/off indication.
Old 11-11-15 | 04:18 AM
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You can also pick up a LED compatible flasher at Autozone or Pep Boys for about $10, and not need the resistors for the turn signal bulbs.
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