How To

How to Install Halogen Fog Lights

Halogen fog lights installed on a 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser
Halogen fog lights installed on a 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser
Member
By jbuskirk
eHow Community Member
(3 Ratings)

Sometimes factory headlights just don't get the job done. Follow these instructions to make your vehicle shine a little brighter with halogen fog lights.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Halogen lights and installation kit (mounting hardware and wiring)
  • Drill
  • Grommets
  • Primer or paint
  • Electrical tape
  • Split loom
  • Wire ties
  • Tape measure
  1. Step 1

    The style and wattage of your halogen fog lights are up to you, but make sure your charging system can handle the amperage. Ask a sales associate at the auto parts store if you're unsure before you buy your lights.

  2. Step 2

    Decide where on your vehicle you want to mount the lights.

  3. Step 3

    Drill the holes for the lights. Try to drill the holes roughly the same size of the studs to minimize movement. You can also use grommets to tighten the fit.

  4. Step 4

    Spray paint or primer in the holes to protect against rust. Match the color to the mounting location for a clean and professional look.

  5. Step 5

    Mount the lights. The rubber washers included in the lights' installation kit should be used on both sides of the mounting surface with the metal washers behind them.

  6. Step 6

    Run the lights' wiring through the vehicle's body along the factory wiring, using wire ties to attach the two sets of wiring. If there is no factory wiring, keep the lights' wiring away from moving parts and heat. Use wire ties to secure loose wiring tightly to the vehicle's body.

  7. Step 7

    Use split loom to cover exposed wiring. Every 8 to 10 inches, tape the split loom closed with electrical tape.

  8. Step 8

    Mount the switch in a location that is easy to reach from the driver's seat. Each switch is different, so follow the installation kit's instructions.

  9. Step 9

    Ground the switch to the vehicle's body, not the steering column or small brackets.

  10. Step 10

    Hook up the main power lead to the battery. This will give the lights the most current. Always put in-line fuses between the battery and the switch. Although not required, you can also put an in-line fuse between the lights and the switch.

  11. Step 11

    Drive to an open area or straight road at night. Turn on your headlights and fog lights. Aim your newly installed fog lights if they are pointing off center.

Tips & Warnings
  • Make sure the back of your new lights don't touch the body of the vehicle. If they do, the hot lights could melt plastic components or damage your paint.
  • When mounting the switch, make sure to use covered ends, the right gauge of wire and tight connections.
  • When hooking up the main power lead, installing a relay is helpful, but not required.
  • Poor grounds and uncovered wires can cause voltage drops and fires.
Resources
Photo Credit

Wayne Buskirk

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