Running lights on tow mirrors are an often overlooked accessory but can make it easier and safer to tow in low-light conditions. Have you ever wished you could customize your truck, SUV, or van with running lights? Doing so can provide extra visibility for drivers in all kinds of weather and lighting conditions.
Thanks to the emergence of newer technology, it’s now easier than ever to wire running lights onto almost any tow mirrors.
In this post, we’ll discuss how to wire running lights on tow mirrors yourself with minimal difficulty or expense! Learn all about the necessary equipment needed, as well as instructions on wiring and mounting your own unique set of lights. Get ready for a step-by-step journey full of tips along the way so that you can feel confident sprucing up your ride with some eye-catching illumination!
Read on to learn how easy it is to add safety and convenience when out towing your trailer or RV!
What is Running Lights?
Running lights are an extra set of auxiliary lights that you can mount to the tow mirrors on your vehicle. This additional source of light provides extra visibility for drivers in low-light conditions and during inclement weather.
While they don’t necessarily increase the distance a driver can see, running lights make it easier to be seen from further away. This makes them particularly helpful with towing trailers and RVs since they increase the safety for both you and other drivers on the road.
What to Keep in Mind When Wiring Running Lights on Tow Mirrors
1. Designs
Before you start wiring, there are some things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure all components are designed for the specific make and model of your vehicle. Running lights are available in many different styles, so take a look at what’s out there before making your purchase.
You’ll also want to be aware that running lights will draw additional power from the vehicle’s battery, so make sure your electrical system can handle the load!
2. Wiring
Once you have all the necessary parts, it’s time to start wiring. Make sure you read any directions that come with the running lights, and be sure to double-check everything before connecting any wires. You’ll also want to ensure there is enough slack in the wiring to allow for adjustments later on. Finally, make sure you have all the necessary tools and safety equipment at hand before beginning work.
3. Mounting
Once your wiring is complete, it’s time to mount the running lights onto the tow mirrors. Different vehicle models require different mounting techniques, so again be sure to read any instructions that come with the lights. Once you have them securely mounted, it’s time to test them out and see if everything is working properly!
By following these steps, you, too, can easily wire running lights onto your tow mirrors. Doing so adds extra visibility for both yourself and other drivers in all kinds of conditions. It’s a great way to improve safety while also making sure your trailer or RV looks great! So why not try it out today and see how easy it is to spruce up your ride with a little extra illumination? You won’t regret it!
What Equipment Do You Need?
In order to wire running lights onto tow mirrors, first, you’ll need to purchase some basic supplies. This includes:
- A wiring harness
- An in-line fuse holder
- Wire connectors
- Running lights with mounting hardware.
10 Steps on How to Wire Running Lights on Tow Mirrors
Step 1: Locate the Vehicle’s Battery
Start by locating the vehicle’s battery. Once you’ve found it, connect one end of the wiring harness to the positive (+) terminal and the other end to the ground (-) or chassis point on your vehicle.
Step 2: Install Fuse Holder
Next, install the in line fuse holder. Connect the negative (-) wire from the wiring harness to one end of the fuse holder, and then connect the positive (+) wire to the other end.
Step 3: Install Lights
Now it’s time to install the lights onto your tow mirrors. Depending on your vehicle, this may require a drill or other tools. Follow any instructions that came with the lights to properly mount them.
Step 4: Connect Wires
Connect the positive wire from the light to one side of the fuse holder, and then connect the negative wire from the light to a ground (-) or chassis point on your vehicle. Be sure to double-check all connections before proceeding.
Step 5: Test Lights
Now it’s time to test out your work. Turn on the lights and make sure they are operating correctly. Make any adjustments if necessary. Testing your work is important before you move on.
Step 6: Mount Lights
Now it is time to mount the lights onto your tow mirrors. Depending on the specific type of vehicle, this may require a drill, nuts, and bolts, or other tools. Follow any instructions that came with the lights to properly mount them.
Step 7: Connect Wires
Connect the positive wire from the light to one side of the fuse holder, and then connect the negative wire from the light to a ground (-) or chassis point on your vehicle. Be sure to double-check all connections before proceeding.
Step 8: Attach the Fuse holder
Attach the in-line fuse holder to a secure point near the battery. Make sure it is secure and not able to move around. While attaching the fuse holder, make sure not to put too much tension on the wires.
Step 9: Secure Wires
Secure any loose or dangling wires with zip ties to a secure point near the battery. This will help keep everything neat and tidy. Also, be sure to keep the wires away from any hot parts or moving parts of the vehicle.
Step 10: Test Lights Again
Once you have completed all of these steps, it’s time to test out your work again. Turn on the lights and make sure they are operating correctly. Make any adjustments if necessary. Once everything is working properly, your running lights are ready for use!
Wiring running lights to tow mirrors is a great way to increase safety and visibility when towing. Use this guide as a reference when wiring up your own running lights, and make sure to double-check all connections before taking your vehicle out on the road. With these steps, you’ll be able to safely and easily wire running lights onto your tow mirrors in no time!
8 Safety Precautions to Follow When Wiring Running Lights on Tow Mirrors
Safety should be the first priority when wiring running lights onto tow mirrors. To ensure that you and those around you stay safe, keep these 8 safety precautions in mind:
- Make sure to read your vehicle’s owner’s manual before doing any wiring work. This will provide important information, such as the location of wiring harnesses and fuses.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning any wiring work, this will help protect you from electric shock. Also, be sure to reconnect it when you are finished.
- Know which wires are positive and negative, as connecting them incorrectly could cause electric shock or damage to the tow mirrors. Knowing which wire is live can also help you trace any circuit problems.
- Use a voltage tester to make sure the wiring has been connected correctly and that there is no power running through it; this will help prevent electric shocks or any damage to the tow mirrors.
- Be sure to use appropriately-sized fuses when connecting wires, as using too small of a fuse could cause an electrical fire or injury due to electric shock.
- Always wear protective goggles when working with electricity, as this can protect your eyes from any sparks that may be emitted during the wiring process.
- Make sure to double-check all connections and test the wiring before you turn on your vehicle’s engine. This will help make sure everything is working properly and safely.
- If you don’t feel comfortable wiring running lights onto your tow mirrors, seek help from an experienced mechanic or electrician. They will be able to do the job safely and correctly.
Following these safety precautions is essential to making sure that you stay safe while wiring running lights onto your tow mirrors. Being prepared and using caution can help prevent any potential accidents or injuries due to electric shock.
Conclusion
If you’ve been considering adding running lights to your tow mirrors, now you have all the information you need. Adding running lights to your mirror setup will keep you safe and legal both day and night while also providing a customized look for your truck or SUV.
Making sure to adhere to local ordinances is, of course, tremendously important as well. The whole process of wiring running lights is not terribly difficult but does involve a bit of time with some basic tools like needle nose pliers and socket wrenches.
There is certainly some skill involved in getting everything hooked up just right, but the understanding that all the wires serve a specific purpose will give you the confidence needed to tackle this task.
Having such an understanding will result not only in a great-looking finished product but a safe and reliable one as well — your family can be at ease knowing it was done correctly! Following the right safety precautions on how to wire running lights on tow mirrors can ensure that you stay safe while wiring running lights onto your tow mirrors.