Wiring offroad lights with a relay and switch can be a simple task, but you still need to pay attention to the instructions to complete the process successfully. You have to focus on the specific gauge or amperage requirements specific to your vehicle. If not, your offroad lights can become a charred connection instead of intense illumination with a slight error.
We have provided below easy-to-follow steps on how to wire offroad lights with a relay and switch. Bear in mind the process may differ depending on the type of vehicle you have. Below are some general tips and tricks to help you get started.
Know the Locations: where to mount off road lights?
Before you start with the process, it would help you a lot if you familiarize yourself first with the relay points. You will see four marked points 30, 85, 86, and 87. Points 30 and 87 produces the switch to your lights. This switch is open, so the current will not run from the battery to your lights.
30 is where the light gets its power. The wire is connected on the positive side of the battery or to a switch that gets power once you turn on the ignition.
87 is on the positive side of the LED lights.
85 and 56 utilize electrical current to produce a magnetic force, which closes 30 to 87 switches and enables the electricity to run to your lights. It will not produce magnetic force without this current, so 30 to 87 switches remain open and keep the lights off.
85 is connected to the source of energy with a switch you can control. For instance, you can join a wire off the high beam wire or turn off your backup light.
86 point is connected to a ground
Steps on How to Wire Offroad Lights with a Relay and Switch?
Here are easy to follow steps on wiring offroad lights with relay and switch:
Step #1 Prepare the Materials or Tool You Need
Some of the materials and automotive tools you will need to complete the process are as follows:
Electric tape
Step #2 Disabling the Terminals
If you need both sets of terminals, you can skip this step. But in case you don’t, follow this step. With electric tape, wrap each terminal to prevent the points from touching each other. Also, cover the black and white wires to make sure they won’t touch each other. If you need to use both terminals, it is best to use the shorter end depending on which side the battery is located on.
Step #3 Connect the Other Set of Terminals to LED Light Bar
Connect the white terminal wire to the positive red wire and black wire to the negative black wire. Use electric tape in securing the connections.
Step #4 Connecting the Car Battery and Relay
Connect the red wire attached to the fuse to the car battery positive. Tap the black wire of the relay to the car battery negative or on the available ground. Since the fuse is connected to the red wire, the fuse will blow in case LED light bar short circuits, thus preventing further damage. The relay serves as a railroad switch, guiding the flow of energy in the proper direction.
Step #5 Direct the Button Switch to the Driver Side Interior
The switch is equipped with a double-sided adhesive, so it is easy for you to position the button anywhere convenient. Draw the switch portion of the wire from the passenger to the driver side for best cable management. Find the rubber cover on the driver side and open the firewall cover. Then, from the engine bay, insert the switch into the interior.
Step #6 Connect the Red Trigger Wire to the Tailing or Headlight Positive Wire
The red wire is connected to the headlight positive wire to ensure the car battery is protected against draining when neglected. Also, drivers tend to forget to turn off their headlights than turning off the LED lights bars because it is not its usual function. Because of these, the red wire is connected to the headlight positive wire.
Step #7 Test the Newly Wired LED Light Bar
Before you take your vehicle out, do not forget to test your newly wired LED light. Turn it on to know if it is working correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where to mount off-road lights?
The popular place to mount off-road lights is at the top of the windshield. It’s because the higher the lights are mounted, the farther it can project visible light. Also, the location allows a bigger light bar. It is hard to find a spot on a vehicle that can accommodate a 40-50 inch light bar.
Can you wire lights without a relay?
A relay is an electrical switch enabling a low current circuit to control a high current circuit like a bigger LED light bar. A light pod does not require a very large amp draw. It may not need a relay switch, but it is a must-have if you have a bigger LED light bar.
You need a relay for the light bar to switch from low-current trigger to high-current, reverse polarity, switch a circuit on or off, and a lot more. To add LED lights like off-road light bars, work/driving lights, or other auxiliary lights, you need to add circuit to provide enough power to the light.
What size fuse should I use for offroad lights?
You can use a 10 amp fuse to protect the circuit with 16 gauge wire. 20 amps are the usual rate of the switch. So using a 10 amp fuse can keep the circuit from overloading.
Final Thoughts
Enhance your visibility and safety when traveling the road at night with off-road lights. It is the perfect modification you can do for your vehicle. Also, if you install the lights with improper wiring, it may damage your electrical system and can get you out in the dark.
This how to wire offroad lights with a relay and switch guide can get you things done properly. Some people may find it hard to wire the off road lights, but if you know your vehicle well and the wiring of the lights, you can complete the job easily.
You must use bigger wires, switches, and fuses to accommodate the load required. Check the electrical system before installing and follow the instructions on proper wiring for your specific vehicle. If you want to share your ideas on wiring offroad lights with a relay, scroll down and comment below.
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