Best Tailgate Light Bar – Buying Guide and Reviews
Why add the best tailgate light bar on your vehicle? By doing so, you will have made a great addition to your vehicle. It will likely add lighting which can serve as running lights, brake lights, reverse or turn signal lights and that is why you have to select the best out of the many in the market.
It needs to be one that will be easy to install by using adhesive tape on the back which will then be able to allow you to pill and stick it onto your tailgate. There are those which come with a plug and play connector which you will then have to attach to your trailer plug. When you are in the market searching for a tailgate light bar that will be best for you, you have to determine in advance the amount of light that you want it to produce.
Most of the light bars for the tailgate which are in the market are universal which means, you will not have to shop for a vehicle specification. It also means that it might not work great for your vehicle. The below list of 10 is what I think might be the best tailgate light bar that you can currently find in the market.
Comparison Of Tailgate Light Bar
Tailgate Light Bar Reviews
1. OPT7 60 Inches Tailgate Light Bar By OPT 7
I consider this particular light bar for the tailgate to be one of the best. It uses LEDs which are around 35% brighter than other LEDs which are available in the market. If you decide to purchase it, it will sync well with your vehicle’s regular lighting, giving you a boost to turn the signal in red, brake light, reversing and general lighting. You will be much visible to the other users on the road.
It is a bar which is waterproofed to IP67 and to fill the gaps, it uses silicone. There is no rain which gets into this particular light bar when you install it on your vehicle as it is completely sealed to any elements. Its frame is constructed from rust resisting and it is lightweight. The entire light bar will be able to fit with no drilling of holes or having to screw it down.
For installation, it uses 3M adhesive tape which is normally rated at 45lbs. For wiring, it is taken care of by a 4 pin plug which is standard and OEM on various trucks. It connects to either the tow connector or you can hardwire it if that is your preference.
It is a light bar for the tailgate which is semi-rigid, easy to fit, excellent lighting ability, and made with aluminum material at an affordable price.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Easy to fit
- Made from lightweight aluminum material
- Waterproofed to IP67
- It is semi-rigid
Cons
- Not long-lasting
2. Ambother Tailgate Side Bed Light Strip Bar 3528-72LED
I was hesitant to add this light strip bar onto my best tailgate light bars due to some of the reviews that I read about it. But because I was convinced that it is a good light bar, I went ahead and purchased it just to test it on my own.
It arrived when it was nicely packaged, in excellent condition and with all the parts in it which were necessary for the installation. I found the little screw in brackets not necessary. I used the 3M tape and it was quite sufficient for me to hold the bar in place.
Before installation, I cleaned the area thoroughly. I found the instructions a bit confusing. The diagram in the manual shows correctly how it is supposed to be done especially with the wiring but the written text is a bit confusing. After this bit of confusion, I found the installation to be simple and the light bar functioned for me.
I did the mounting on the space between the bumper and the tailgate. Though it is not long enough it fits there just well. It gave my truck a custom look and an additional visibility safety and thus, good value for my cash
Pros
- Good value for money
- Stable and big chip
- Clean and simple to install
- When not in use, very transparent
- Durable and functional
Cons
3. Mictuning 60 inch Tailgate Lightbar Strip For The Truck
I think this might be one of the best tailgate bars which have great protective features and luminosity. My friend John bought it and he is all praises about it. When he installed it, it produced a lot of light for the bumper, keeping other road users away from it.
So if you decide that this is your light bar of choice, you will learn that at times it will tend to outshine the other lights on your tailgate. It is one that is designed for all types of weather. If you stay in a place which is warm, then it will last you for a very long time since the wear and tear will be at a minimum.
You will have the option of placing it on your front or rear if you want to use it as a running light for decoration. It will be able to run at least 100000 hours if you take great care of it. This means that you might just have them on your vehicle for a very long period of time.
Before you purchase them, you will need to check out if they are really compatible with your specific vehicle. One downside about this particular light bar is that, when you install, be ready to have issues with your reverse lights.
Even after proper installation, at times the LED delays signaling or totally fails to light up. If that is the case, it could be due to wiring and it would be best if you bought an adapter or connector. This will ensure that the wires will be hidden and thus, not exposed to elements.
While you might use it in all weather, the rainy season might cause moisture appearing in the light.
Pros
- Your truck will look sophisticated
- It has protective and strong features
- It can run at least 100000 hours
- It is a very bright light bar
- It is designed for all type of weather
Cons
4. Mihaz Tailgate Lightbar 3528-90LED
In case you are looking for a light bar for yourself which adopts a complete row of lights totaling to 90 pcs, then this could be what you should settle for. It produces s brightness of about 35% brighter as compared to the normal light bar. It has an advanced silicone bar to make it high quality when it comes to waterproof and high quality.
The brightness is non-fading and thus, you will awake those behind you with your 90 powerful LEDs. The lights are dedicated to maximizing your truck’s presence on the road as it is an attractive light beam.
It will sync with your OEM lights to ensure that your pickup has a more stylish look and running lights, reverse lights which will become much more useful, stunning brake lights, and RED turn lights which will be boosted to maximize your car. You will never get rear-ended again if this will become your option of light bar tailgate lights.
With the presence of waterproof IP67 rating, it will ensure that the light bar will still shine even when it is raining.
Pros
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Full attractive function
- Non-fading brightness
- Syncs with your factory lighting
- Easy to install with no drilling required
Cons
- Doesn’t fit some vehicles
5. Wigbow Tailgate Lightbar Strip 60 Inches
If you are searching for a waterproof tailgate light, this could be one of the option to pick. It is waterproof IP67 rated and made from materials which are high quality. It is sealed with flexible silicone. You can comfortably use it in bad weather; snow, rain, summer or winter. It comes with a 30000 hours lifespan.
During installation, you will use genuine 3M glue which sticks well as compared to ordinary glue and thus, no need to worry about it falling off as you drive. It is easy to use and will give you a better service. With a piece of wet clean clothes and a 4 Y-splitter, you will be able to clean your truck before installing it.
Installation is very easy. After cleaning the surface where you want to attach it with the glue, remove the paper covering, stick and power it up. It is able to fit on most trucks, cars, trailers, pickups, GMC, Ford, Toyota, Chevy and many others.
There is no risk in purchasing it as it comes with a full refund or replacement if you don’t like it after you have purchased and installed it on your vehicle.
Pros
- A full refund or replacement guaranteed
- Affordable
- Waterproof IP67
- 5 full functions
- Better service and easy to use
Cons
- Installation instructions not clear
6. GES Truck Tailgate Light Bar 60 Inches 2 Rows
Before my current purchase, I had used this particular tailgate light bar on my truck and I found it to be good. It is a normal LED strip and it will definitely work for you.
I placed it on the back of my trailer and it made a big difference as far as lighting is concerned. It made the trailer more visible especially at night and I was even more visible to other road users.
If you are used to dealing with 12-volt wiring, the color codes on the auto lights will tend to look strange to you due to the fact that, in most cases, red means positive. But this is not the case with the LEDs strip. The red wire that you will see is the positive which lead to the reverse lights, the other lights utilize the negative which in this case, is brown in color.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Super bright
- Easy to install
- Safety design
- Multi-functions
Cons
7. Nilight Tailgate Bar TR-01 LED Strip
If you want to get light which is 35% brighter than the regular chips, then this could be your choice of light bar for your tailgate. It comes in the form of a rod which is 60 inches and flexible. It is embedded with 108 LED bulbs. Each bulb will be able to give you more than 35% brightness.
The housing is flexible but tightly sealed to protect the lights against wear and tear from harsh weather as well as dirt and dust. This durability adds to a lifespan of about 30,000 hours.
It is easy to install as there is no drilling which is required to get a perfect fit. You will use the powerful adhesive which is included in the package. The set tends to be versatile as it comes with five settings which are very useful; left and right turn signals, reverse lights, running lights, and brake lights. The lights are versatile and tough and will make you be visible on the road no matter the weather or time of day or night.
Pros
- Easy to install with the patent adhesive and no drilling required
- The flexible rod which houses 108 LEDs lights
- 30000 hours lifespan
- Resistant to dust, dirt, and weather
- It is 35% brighter than the regular LEDs
- Five useful settings; reverse light, running lights, turning lights both left and right, and brake lights
Cons
8. Partsam Lightbar For Truck Tailgate 60 Inches
This might work for you if you are looking for a light bar for yourself that is within the 60-inch bracket. It is compatible with massive trucks such as Chevy, Dodge Ram, SUVs, and RVs.
It is very bright and thus, will be able to help you to see the road clearly and assist others to be able to notice you on the road. Your presence on the road will be felt regardless of the weather if you decide to purchase this particular light bar for your truck.
The strip is constructed from robust and elastic materials which are resistant to oxidation, shocks, and water. It is filled with IP67 silicone which ensures that there is complete sealing of any gap that could be within the strip and also, make the bar to be resistant to tough weather. You will have two options to choose from when it comes to installation: you can use the adhesive tape, 3M quality that you will easily pill and paste on your truck or, use the screws and bolts for an installation which is more secure.
Pros
- Two options when it comes to installation
- It is affordable
- It is weather-resistant
- Made from a robust and elastic material
- It is very bright
Cons
9. Danti Tailgate Lightbar Waterproof 60 Inches
I consider this particular light bar for the tailgate to be one of the best on the market which you should consider purchasing especially if you are on a budget and still want to own a light bar. The LEDs are housed in a waterproof, flexible ABS tube. It lights up in response to your driving, making you enjoy great lighting around you and making your presence on the road to be felt by other road users.
It has four functions which allow it to act as a reversing light, a brake light, and right and left turning light signals. It is compatible with various vehicles include the recently new models produced by Nissan, Toyota, GMC, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Honda.
When it comes to installation, it is very easy as you will just have to use the self-adhesive tape which is included in the kit together with the screws. Apart from the light bar giving your truck a nice appearance, it improves your overall safety by increasing your visibility in and all around you irrespective of the weather condition. It is a device which is built to last.
Pros
- Compatible with various types of cars
- Has several LED lights
- It is easy to install using adhesive tape and screws
- Has 4 functions
- The lights are housed in a flexible ABS tube
- Improves your visibility no matter the weather condition
Cons
10. SPE Lightbar For Tailgate 60 Inches
With the SPE truck light bar for the tailgate which is new in the market, you will be able to keep them at bay. Each of the strips has 72 small LEDs bulbs to make your truck to be noticed whether you are signaling or braking. The 72 are evenly spread within the 60-inch flexible light bar which makes you be noticeable on the road.
The lights are sealed with an IP65 waterproof silicone which will offer your light bar with protection from elements. Whether it is a wet thunderstorm or winter blizzard, moisture will be sealed out and ensure that your LEDs run longer and brighter even when you are in the worst weather condition.
The light features of the light bar includes reverse light, running light, right signal, left signal, and brake lights. In the kit, you will find include the pre wired trailer connector, inline fuse housing with its fuse, mounting hardware, and 60-inch tailgate light strip together with 3M adhesive backing.
It can be mounted on any surface even the uneven surface which is normally below the tailgate and it will be able to stick for a long time. All you have to do before installation is to ensure that you clean the surface well and then peel and stick it. It is perfect for any pick-up truck, work truck, SUV, RVs, trailers and off-road vehicles.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Complete kit
- IP 65 waterproof rated
- Bright light
Cons
- Not durable
What Is The Purpose Of Tailgate Light Bars
When you purchase a tailgate light bar, it will have the following main functions:
1. Improve Visibility
When you get extra lights on your vehicle, it will be an effective but simple way, to ensure that other drivers are able to see you especially when it is foggy, rainy, or dark conditions. The LEDs which are present in these lights are normally brighter as compared to the factory-installed thereby making them be able to cut through the air irrespective of the present condition.
2. Improve Appearance
When you install a tailgate light bar on your vehicle, it will improve its appearance. These lights are very distinctive and attractive when on the back of your vehicle.
3. Make The Signals More Clear
Most of the tailgate light bars are plugged into the wiring which already exists on your vehicle. This allows them to easily synchronize with your reversing light, brake light, and turn lights. It will in the process be able to brighten your display, making other road users know your intentions.
What To Look For When Buying A Tailgate Light Bar For Your Truck?
1. Functionality
When you are choosing lights for the tailgate, the first thing you need to consider is what it will do. There are some bars which are designed for decoration and visibility while others will perform other extra functions such as allow other cars on the road to know that, you are braking or just about to make a turn.
2. Length Of The Bar
While it is rare to come across the 70 inches light bars, but they are available in the market. But most of the LEDs light bars that you will come across are at 60 inches. You will have to first of all measure your truck bed edge before you go out buying the light bar, just to be sure that you are purchasing the right size. You have an option of going through the specifications of your owner’s manual to get to know the right size. If it is more than 60 inches, then it automatically denotes that, you will not have problems when installing.
In case you are not sure, then it would be best if you used a tape measure to get the rear measurements of your truck, giving more attention to the gap which is between the bumper and the liftgate. For most trucks, this refers to space where you are going to install the light bar. If it is under 60 inches, then you are good.
3. Compatibility
Though compatibility looks simple, it is one of the things that you will need to consider before you purchase the light bar for your tailgate. You have to consider the size of your tailgate and match it with the light bar. Lightbars are available in sizes of 48 inches, 49 inches, and 70 inches. If you end up purchasing the wrong size, you will still be able to use it but it will look awkward on your vehicle.
You have to also consider the wiring and installation. Though it might not tend to be an issue due to the fact that most light bars for the tailgate move after some time , not all tailgate light bars are able to fit on all types of vehicles.
4. Color
Though it seems a concern which is aesthetic, the color of the light bar for your tailgate can be something important to consider. If most of the time you tend to drive in poor weather conditions such as snow, fog, and rain, I would recommend that you choose lights that have a different color display for various driving functions. The differentiation will make driving intentions more clearly to others who are using the road than a single color set up.
5. Installation Method
Tailgate light bars can be installed using one of the following installation methods:
- Clips And Screws: There are some light bars which you will just have to screw into place. It is the most secure method of attaching a light bar to a tailgate but on the other hand, it will take a lot of your time. You will have to drill holes at your vehicle’s back. In some instances, you will have to use clips which hold these bars with the screws.
- Glue: It is one of the most popular installation methods with its main benefit being that it is the easiest. All you have to do is to ensure that, you allow it ample drying time.
- Adhesive strip: There are some tailgate light bars which come with a self-adhesive strip attached at their back. This allows them to easily and quickly put into the required position on your car’s back. For it to be a strong installation, you will need to combine it with other installation equipment.
6. Number of Rows
Lightbars in most instances come in rows of between 1 to 3, with LEDs covering the majority of the bar. They operate in the same manner and they are very flexible. The differences lie in the brightness level which is generated.
One row: The tailgate bars which are one row will have a set of white and red lights which sit parallel to the next fixture. You can find one which has amber-colored lights included with them but they will have to be in the same row as the other lights.
When the lights get displayed, you will see more space between the dark area that separates the LEDs. But when the lights become brighter, you will not notice anything in between them.
If you are looking for something which will be able to glow at a rate which appears to be a straight line that goes down the bumper, then you will need to go with the lights that have three rows.
Two rows: The light bars which have two rows have a dual row set up. There are some manufacturers who dedicate one of the rows to specifically work with the reverse lights or the white lights. Other manufacturers designate one of the rows for turning signals.
If you are looking out to have your turning signals to flash in a color which is amber, then you will have to pay attention to the hue which is displayed on the photo of the product. In case you see a strip which is in line with the color, then it has to be included in it. In most instances, amber lights are used for turning signals. The two rows can be used as a simple decoration if you desire so.
Three rows: They are the most common tailgate bar lights used by vehicle owners. They produce triple the light which is produced by the single rows and in most instances, match the brightness in your factory rear view tailgate lights. There are some models which tend to be a bit longer when it comes to height but most of them don’t have issues when it comes to average trucks.
These type of tailgate light bars can feature between 1 to 3 color combinations. Most of them offer two color combinations; white for backing up and red for turning/braking. If your pickup is large or you happen to live in an area that receives heavy snow or fog during the winter months, then your best choice should be the three-row light bar for the tailgate.
How To Hardwire A Tailgate Light Bar
Find a location which is suitable for mounting, that will allow for mounting the LEDs light bar and running the wires. Mark the place where the holes will be drilled for the mounting feet or light bar brackets. Ensure that you check behind the drilling location so that there is nothing being damaged in the process. The holes being drilled should be appropriate.
Mount the lights with the hardware which is provided or mounting brackets which are optional. You should not overtighten the hardware at this stage.
The lighting side of the wiring harness has to be routed from the battery to the light in a secure and safe manner. Connect the harness to the light avoiding heat source and any other moving parts while you are working on the wires. If you happen to prolong wire chafing, it might lead to a short in your circuit. It is important that you follow the manufacturer’s wiring harness instruction as it is the safest way to go. Some lights might not have ATP or DT connections on them, but you can add the connectors from the kit of the harness or purchase the ATP or DT separately.
Continue to ensure that the switch portion of the harness is routed to your desired switch location. You might require to unplug the switch from the harness to ensure the harness routing is made easier. You can utilize an optional remote-controlled switch to ensure that you speed up the installation time, to avoid routing the wires through the firewall of the vehicle.
You have to double-check for proper clearance and any obstructions. For the switch, you will have to drill an appropriately sized hole. Connect the switch to the wires and mount it.
Connect the ground wire which is black in color, with the ring terminal which is large from the harness to the negative battery terminal. Connect the power wire, which is red in color, with the ring terminal which is large, from the harness to the positive terminal of the battery.
Secure the relay to a location which is suitable, and test the light to ensure that, the circuit is working.
Aim the light to your desired direction and make sure that, all the mounting hardware are tightened.
Tailgate Light Bar FAQs
1. Are Tailgate Light Bars Legal?
Check with your state laws. But motorists in most states are not allowed to operate the LED light bars while driving on public roadways.
2. Are Tailgate Light Bars Waterproof?
Yes. But the bulb themselves are not water-resistant but are housed within a weatherproof and waterproof tube. The exterior which is waterproof is very important since the light is more important in poor visibility conditions such as sleet, hail, snow, and rain.
Most of the light bars are tough enough to be able to withstand mud and debris that you will be able to come across on the road. Despite its durability, you will have to do regular cleaning of the light bar for your tailgate. This will ensure that they don’t get damaged and thus, continue being highly visible thereby performing its function in a proper manner.
3. How Long It Will Last On My Pickup Truck?
It will all depend on the product which you will end up choosing. Most of them come with an adhesive which is designed for automotive use, meaning that, it is unlikely for the bar itself to come unstuck.
As for the durability of the LEDs lights, it varies with a good set lasting between 30000 to 100000 hours of usage. In terms of real life, you will have to cover about 100000 miles before the worry to replace the lights sets in. the durability stems from the low energy usage of LEDs.
4. How Do I Determine What Length Light Bar I Will Need?
It will depend on the area where you want to install the light bar and the type of vehicle that you own. You can utilize a tape measure to find out the length of the surface where you will be fixing the light strip. Use the measurements as a guide to inform you when it comes to your purchasing decision.
5. Is It Possible Forthe Light Bar For The Tailgate To Sync To Your Pickup Truck’s Hazard Light?
Yes. It is very possible for the light bar for your tailgate to synchronize so that, whenever the hazard lights of your car are switched on , it flashes. If it has been connected well to the lighting wiring, it will be able to give a boost to your hazard lights, allowing you to be more visible.
Conclusion
It is very simple to make a decision to purchase the best tailgate light bar but purchasing it could be the problem. With so many choices available in the market with each having its pros and cons, you might feel overwhelmed. It is a great addition to your vehicle modification as it will make a great difference both in the dark and day time.
I have covered a range of various types which include multicolored light bars. There are a variety of very cheap tailgate light bars which are available on the market but I would recommend you avoid them as they will not give you enough light or last for very long. When you pay slightly more for a build which is superior and with high quality, you are assured of getting better quality LEDs.
My best pick is Ambother Tailgate Side Bed Light Strip Bar 3528-72LED. I bought it and tested it on my truck and I just found it to be awesome. It has good value for money; it is stable and big chip; it is clean and simple to install; when not in use, very transparent; and it is durable and functional.
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