Adding lighting to your car is an excellent way to enhance its look and stand out on the road. It can improve your driving visibility and safety, especially in low light or poor weather conditions. However, with so many lighting options and installation methods available, it can be tricky to know where to start.

Therefore, before you start buying all sorts of lights and components, knowing the dos and don’ts of adding lighting to your car is essential. After all, not all lighting setups are created equal, and some can pose safety risks if not installed or used properly. The article will explore six essential dos and don’ts to remember when adding lighting to your car.

The Dos

Here’s what you should do when adding lighting to your car:

• Install Top-tier LED Lights

Light-emitting diode (LED) lights are popular with car enthusiasts who want to add style to their rides. They’re the most modern and energy-efficient option on the market. They use less power, last longer than halogen or high-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs, and come in various colors. Plus, they don’t get as hot as other bulbs, which can help prevent damage to your car’s electrical system. On the downside, LED lights can be more expensive than other types of lighting, and they may not be as bright in some cases.

It’s important to choose top-tier products that are compatible with your car’s make and model. For extra visibility, you can opt for LED light bars. It’s also good to research and read reviews from other car enthusiasts to determine which brands are the most reliable. You can upgrade your car with a stealth light bar that’s durable, waterproof, and provides a consistent stream of light while you drive. 

• Follow Car Lighting Laws And Regulations

Depending on where you live, there may be specific rules about what colors and types of lights are allowed on the road.

These laws aim to ensure that all drivers on the road can see and be seen clearly, which helps prevent accidents. If you have overly bright or distracting lights on your car, it can be difficult for other drivers to focus on the road, putting everyone in danger.

Additionally, failing to follow car lighting laws can result in hefty fines or even legal trouble, which is definitely not worth the risk. The good news is there are plenty of ways to add lighting to your car while staying within the legal limits. Just research and find out what’s legal in your area.

• Use High-Quality Wiring And Components

Using high-quality wiring and components is important when adding lighting to your car. Cheap or faulty wiring can be a serious safety hazard. It can cause shorts, fires, and other dangerous electrical problems. In addition, using low-quality components can lead to poor performance and a shorter lifespan for your lights. 

It’s important to read reviews and research to ensure you’re using high-quality wiring products.

Don’ts Of Adding Lighting To Your Car

Here are a few things you should avoid when adding light to your car.

• Avoid Overloading Your Electrical System

Adding lighting to your car can be a lot of fun, but it’s important not to overload your electrical system. If you try to power too many lights at once, you could end up causing electrical issues like blown fuses or even damaging your car’s battery or alternator. Overloading your electrical system can also be a safety hazard, increasing the risk of electrical fires or other dangerous situations.

It’s essential to know the limits of your car’s electrical system. Check your car manufacturer’s manual or consult a professional to determine how much electrical power your car can handle. Then, ensure you’re not exceeding that limit when adding lighting. If you’re unsure how much power your lights are drawing, you can use a multimeter to test the amperage.

• Don’t Install Flashing Lights

Cars with flashing lights may look cool but can be quite dangerous. Flashing lights can distract other drivers and even trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. To avoid the dangers of flashing lights, you can check your local laws and regulations to see what’s allowed for car lighting. In most cases, flashing lights are a big no-no.

If you want to add some extra pizzazz to your car, consider using lights that can change colors or patterns without flashing. These lights can still look cool without posing a risk to yourself or other drivers on the road.

• Don’t Install Lights In Illegal Or Unsafe Locations

Some car owners may be tempted to install lights in unconventional locations, such as on the windshield or in front of the grille. However, this can be dangerous. Installing lights in these locations can obstruct the driver’s view, making it difficult to see the road ahead and increasing the risk of accidents. It can also be illegal in some areas, as it may violate local laws and regulations regarding car modifications.

To avoid these risks, only install lights in legal and safe locations. This typically includes mounting lights on the front or rear of the vehicle in locations that don’t obstruct the driver’s view or violate any local laws or regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lighting can greatly enhance your car’s appearance and performance. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or experienced installer when adding lighting to your car, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process or planning a more complex setup. They can provide valuable advice and ensure everything is installed correctly and safely.

In addition, don’t forget to regularly check and maintain your lights, wiring, and components to ensure they’re functioning properly and not posing any safety risks. This includes cleaning your lights regularly, checking for signs of damage or wear and tear, and replacing faulty or damaged parts as soon as possible.