How to Install Projector Fog Lights
-
2-4 hours
•
-
Intermediate
•
- 50-150
Installing projector fog lights can provide a number of benefits for vehicles and their owners. These fixtures are not only more stylish than the usual fog lights installed in original equipment manufacturer (OEM) version cars, but they are also a lot more functional. The light they produce can help drivers see better through thicker fogs, thereby providing them better safety. Follow the simple steps below to effectively install your own projector fog lights.
Step 1 – Prepare the Projector Fog Lights
Purchase a new pair of projector fog lights. Choose those that are specifically made for your vehicle's make and model. If purchasing a new projector fog light does not fit within your budget, you can convert your old ordinary fog lights into projector fog lights. You can do this by removing the old bulbs of the ordinary fog light and replacing them with halogen or HID bulbs.
To make the conversion process easier, you may buy a conversion kit from your local store. Conversion kits for halogen or HID bulbs are mostly composed of the on-off switch, mounting bracket, relay, plugs, wiring, and the bulbs. Choose a kit that is designed specifically for the type of vehicle that you have.
Step 2 – Remove the Auto Part Where Fog Lights are Installed
Locate the auto part where your existing fog lights are installed. Most fog lights are included in the front bumper. Some are attached in the side bumpers. Exact fog light locations may vary but they are always lower than the headlights. Refer to your car’s manual when removing the bumper or the side bumpers. The process can be completely different on various vehicle models. In some cars, the bumper has to be accessed through the hood while in some others, the bumpers can be detached by unbolting them from the main chassis.
Step 3 – Connect the Wires
Connect the lights to the same wires that were used to connect the old fog lights. Do this even if the new lights may have low or high beam. Ensure that the correct wirings are attached. This is crucial for the optimum performance of the new projector fog lights. Use the fog light switch to turn the low beam or high beam on.
Other bulbs in the projector fog lights like those making the “halo” effect should use other light wirings in the car. Wirings for the turn and park signal bulbs can be tapped for this purpose. For example, tap on the park signal bulb wiring if you want the “halo” light to turn on when the park signal is on.
Step 4 – Check the Projector Fog Lights
Turn the fog light on, check the high and low beam, and switch on the park/turn signal to see if the projector fog lights are working as expected. Reconnect or repair wirings if necessary.
Step 5 – Mount the Projector Fog Lights
Install the projector fog lights the way the old ones were installed. Installation procedure may differ from one car model to another. Some car models may have mounting brackets on which to mount the projector fog lights on.
Step 5 – Bring Everything Else Back
Install the bumper or the side bumpers again but now with the projector fog lights with them. Just reverse the steps you did when removing the part.
With the projector fog lights installed, you can be assured that your car can get through thick fog and heavy rain or snow.