Eliminating the need of a hired mechanic, plug and play lighting is considered a cost effective option due to being able to install yourself.
“Plug and play” headlighting refers to a type of automotive lighting system, particularly in the context of aftermarket upgrades or replacements where the installation (or replacement) process is straightforward, user-friendly, and non damaging. Plug and play bulbs are designed to be easily installed by the user without the need for complex wiring or modifications to the vehicle’s electrical system.
Compatibility or Ease of Installation
Plug-and-play headlights are designed to be compatible with the existing connectors and sockets in your vehicle. This is also dependent on if the headlight housing is factory, as aftermarket headlight housings can vary in design and may require alterations. In the case of upgrading from halogen bulbs to LEDs for your car’s factory headlights, this means you can remove the old halogen bulbs and directly plug in the new LEDs without needing to cut wires or make significant alterations. This simplicity reduces the need for professional installation, saving both time and costly mechanic fees.
No Additional Components?
Typically, plug-and-play headlights come with all the necessary components in order to install. This can include bulbs, ballasts (if using HID or LED lights), and connectors. Some luxury, older, or finicky vehicles may require additional parts like bulb holders, new dust cover, decoders (Halogen to HID upgrade), or resistors to ensure optimal performance.
There are also tools recommended for a seamless installation. For example, if you’re upgrading your trunk lighting, you’ll also want to get an auto trim removal kit to ensure you don’t damage your vehicle’s felt liner when upgrading.
All of these additional products needed to upgrade your vehicle’s interior or exterior lighting are offered on our website:
No Error Codes?!
High-quality plug-and-play products come with a built-in Canbus system designed to work seamlessly with the vehicle’s electrical system. This Canbus system ensures error codes won’t appear on the dashboard or cause other electrical issues (eg. hyperflashing) typically seen after upgrading to LED.
In most cases the “built in” Canbus system is located outside of the bulb, on a hanging wire (“tail”). However, as we continue to upgrade our LEDs, our newest products actually have this vital Canbus system built into the bulb itself. Meaning, you will not have hanging wires to store and still enjoy an error free commute.
Should your vehicle experience any of the issues mentioned, likely a decoder or resistor is needed to account for the power difference upgrading from halogen to LED. LEDs use significantly less power than halogens. Problem turn signals and tail lights will need a resistor, whereas headlights will benefit with a decoder to account for this change, acting as a stopper from the main power source to the bulb.
Are you experiencing issues with your recently installed LEDs?
We offer high quality, compact, decoders and resistors to ensure you’re driving in safety and comfort:
“Plug and play” systems are popular among car enthusiasts and DIYers because they allow for easy and relatively quick upgrades to improve the vehicle’s lighting performance without the need for extensive technical knowledge or specialized tools. However, it’s essential to ensure that the plug-and-play product you choose is compatible with your specific make and model of vehicle to avoid any compatibility issues. Speak to one of our knowledgeable team members today to see if your vehicle is ready to upgrade.
