Side Marker Lights
Updated: October 11, 2024
Car side marker lights are small, unobtrusive lights located on the side of a vehicle that helps to increase the visibility of the car, truck, or SUV to other drivers, especially when making turns or changing lanes. They are often amber or red in color and are typically mounted near the front or rear wheel wells. On most vehicles, side marker lights are required by law and must be operational at all times when the vehicle is in motion.
In addition to their safety benefits, side marker lights can also be used to customize the look of a vehicle by installing aftermarket LED or Euro-style lights. However, it is important to note that not all aftermarket lights are legal in all states or countries, and you should check compliance before purchasing and installing these lights. It is also important to make sure that any aftermarket lights you install are compatible with your vehicle’s electrical system and wiring. Some aftermarket lights may require additional wiring or modifications to be installed.
How to select the best side markers for a car?
When selecting side marker lights for a car, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the best lights for your specific needs:
- Compatibility: Make sure the side marker lights you choose are compatible with your specific make and model of car. Some lights may not fit properly or may not be designed to work with your vehicle’s electrical system and wiring.
- Brightness: Look for side marker lights with a high lumen output, which measures the total amount of light emitted by a bulb. This will ensure that you get the brightest and most effective lighting possible.
- Color Temperature: Look for side marker lights with a color temperature matching the factory lights. Side marker lights are typically red or amber. If you plan on using the side marker lights as additional turn signals, you should look for lights that have the same color as your turn signals.
- Lens Material: Look for side marker lights with durable lens material, such as polycarbonate or Lexan. This will ensure that your lights can withstand the weather and the rigors of everyday driving.
- Waterproof and Resistant: Look for waterproof lights or have a level of resistance to water ingress. This will ensure that the lights will perform well even in wet conditions.
- Brand and Quality: As with any product, it is essential to buy from a reputable manufacturer, as many counterfeit products on the market may not meet your expectations. Look for products with a good reputation and warranty and passed necessary safety and performance standards like ECE, SAE, and others.
- Legal Requirements: Before making the purchase, it is crucial to verify that the lights you choose are legal and compliant with the regulations of your country and state. Some aftermarket lights may not be legal in all areas.
By considering these factors, you should be able to select the best side marker lights for your car. It is also a good idea to read reviews and compare the features of different products before making a final decision. Remember also to check your vehicle’s owner manual or contact the manufacturer for specific recommendations for the replacement of side marker lights.
How to install aftermarket side marker lights?
Installing aftermarket side marker lights on a car typically involves the following steps:
- Locate the factory side marker lights: The first step is to locate the factory side marker lights on your car. These lights are typically located near the front or rear wheel wells and are easy to spot.
- Disconnect the battery: Before beginning any electrical work on your car, it is important to disconnect the battery to avoid any accidental electrical shocks.
- Remove the factory lights: Once you have located the factory lights, remove them by gently prying them loose with a trim tool or a flathead screwdriver. Depending on the vehicle, it could be held by screws, clips or adhesive. Be careful not to damage any surrounding parts or the factory lights.
- Install the new lights: Once the factory lights have been removed, install the new side marker lights by reversing the process used to remove the factory lights. Be sure that the new lights are securely fastened in place and properly connected to the wiring.
- Connect the battery and test the lights: After the new lights have been installed, reconnect the battery and turn on the car’s lights to test the new side marker lights. Make sure that they are working properly and that the color and brightness match the factory lights.
It is important to note that the installation process may vary depending on the vehicle model, year, and the specific aftermarket side marker lights you are using. The instructions and the hardware provided with the new lights should be followed. If you are not comfortable with the installation process, it is best to seek professional help to ensure a safe and proper installation. Also, Make sure to comply with the local laws and regulations when doing the installation.
Steven is a certified mechanic and technical writer at Halo Headlights. Steven is excited about fast cars, loud music, and car mods. On yearly basis, he visits SEMA, as well as other car shows.
He has installed thousands of HID and LED kits and done hundreds of custom headlight retrofit projects. Besides, he is an editor and author of multiple car-related articles on Wikipedia. Here is one of them: Automotive Lighting. Now, he is ready to share his experience with Halo-Headlights.com readers.
