If you've decided that you need brighter headlights in your vehicle, you might have decided on the LED variant. Do you know how to install LED headlights, or do you need more guidance? We will show you how to install LED headlights on a car and look at a few popular makes for simplified instructions.
In most cases, when you want to learn how to install LED lights on headlights, everything you need will be provided with your kit. However, you should ask, can I install LED headlights in my car? Not every vehicle is designed to have LEDs installed without modifications. This is something you want to understand upfront.
The majority of LED light bulbs are sold as H1, H3, H4, H11, HB3, or HB4. Make sure you purchase the right kit because they aren't interchangeable. Once you have the new headlight, you are ready to move forward with these steps.
- 1Take out the old halogen headlights. Read your owner’s manual if you aren’t sure how to do this.
- 2Install the new LED headlights. You might need to use circular adapters that securely hold the bulbs.
- 3If the LED requires a larger base or a heat sink at the assembly, you might need to make some adjustments. It’s easy to cut the hole a little bit larger and use a different cover. You just need to make sure the heat sink doesn’t melt the cover.
- 4Plug in the new bulbs. There should be no issue running the bulbs in compatible vehicles.
- 5Test the headlights to see how much brighter they are.
If you are looking for instructions on a specific kind, here are some helpful tips.
How to install Beamtech LED headlights
With Beamtech, you can expect the low and high beam bulbs to come with all the instructions for a quick installation. Just follow the guides provided by the company.
How to install Lumen LED headlights
These kits come with all of the parts needed for a quick installation. Simply follow the instructions provided by the company.
How to install H1 LED headlights
The H1 bulb runs the high beams. You may need to use a conversion kit to get the LED bulbs installed correctly.
How to install H4 LED headlight
The H4 bulb comes with two filaments, so it can be used for low and high beams. It also contains a three-prong attachment to the wiring harness for easy connectivity.
How to install an LED headlight conversion kit
You may need to learn how to install load resistors for LED headlights, depending on what make and model car you drive. Read through the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
LED Headlight Installation for Popular Car Models
On Jeep Wrangler
If you want to know how to install Jeep LED headlights, follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. While it’s easy to learn how to install LED Halo headlights on a Jeep Wrangler, you might need to put in an anti-flicker LED CAN-bus driver module box. This should come with instructions showing you how to install LED headlights in a Jeep Wrangler.
On Chevy Silverado
If you want to know how to install LED headlights on Silverado trucks, it’s important that you get the right conversion kit. You won’t be able to simply plug the LED lights in where halogen bulbs once were. Read the instructions to figure out what you need or purchase a complete kit for a faster installation.
On Ford F150
Each model is different, but as an example, learning how to install LED headlights on a 2018 F-150 may not require any complicated modifications. With a complete kit, all of the new wiring and equipment is provided for you. All you need to do is follow the included instructions.
Why Choose LED Headlights?
Things To Consider Before Installing LED Headlights In Your Car
Is it Legal?
You want to first check the state headlight laws where you drive. The headlights need to comply with local laws, and they should be DOT-approved for on-road usage. Otherwise, you could find yourself getting pulled over by law enforcement.
Enough Space
The LED bulb requires heatsinks and fans to run properly. These parts can take up more space than the average halogen bulb needs. You may need to make some modifications for these kits to fit.
Adequate Venting
The LED bulb diodes do not produce heat as the halogen bulb does. Still, at the bottom, there will be some venting occurring. In an LED bulb, the circuits are going to create heat, requiring a heat sink or cooling fan to run.
Presence Of Plastic Component In The Headlight
If there’s any plastic sitting near the LED bulbs, it could melt. With the heat sink placed appropriately, you can avoid any issue, but you will need to take extra time looking at the design and planning the installation.
Light Housing: Projector Vs. Incandescent Style
You need to know what type of bulbs and housings to purchase. Is your car running Incandescent or Projector headlamps? Examine the pros and cons of each before you try retrofitting it to be something else.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Are LED headlights hard to install?
If you have basic mechanical knowledge, you should be able to complete the job at home in about thirty minutes or less. However, if you are trying to learn how to install a headlight LED strip or something else special, you might need more time and practice.
Where can I get LED headlights installed professionally?
Your local auto mechanic will be able to install the LED headlights. You can also check with local body shops or places that install car electronics, such as aftermarket stereo equipment.
Do you need a conversion kit for LED headlights?
If you are currently running halogen headlights, you will need a conversion kit whether you are upgrading to LED or HID Xenon bulbs. You can purchase a complete kit to make it easier.
Why are some LED headlights illegal?
Some states require that you opt for a certain color of headlights. It’s also possible that you are limited to how bright the new bulbs can be. Check local laws before picking something new.
Conclusion
We’ve covered a lot of instructions, including how to install LED headlights on a Jeep. With our simple guide, you should be able to upgrade your exterior lights without a lot of headaches.