| Installing LED Brake Lights |
From "Tricked Out"
episode DTRK-112 |
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When LEDs are used as brake lights, there's less time between when the brake pedal is depressed and the brake lights come to full brightness. That difference can impact safety in emergency braking situations.
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LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, use less electricity than conventional bulbs and last a very long time.
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In this final segment, Andrew replaces the Accord's conventional incandescent brake lights with LEDs or light-emitting diodes. The LED's use less electricity than conventional incandescent bulbs and last a very long time. When LEDs are used as brake lights, there's less time between when the brake pedal is depressed and the brake lights come to full brightness.Materials and tools used in this episode:
HID headlight kit, which should include all needed electronics and mounting hardware:
2 high-intensity discharge bulbs
Relays
Crimpers
Connectors
WiresStandard mechanic's shop tools (wrenches, sockets, ratchets, screwdrivers, etc.)
Drill
Drill bits
Marker
Wood
25 mm hole saw
Regular shop tools
Electrical tape
Safety goggles
Gloves
- The Accord taillight bulbs are easily accessible. Lift the two tabs (figures A and B) that secure the taillight cover.
After removing the cover unscrew the wiring harness and pull it free from the housing (figure C). Push gently on the light bulb and turn it counter-clockwise to release it from the socket.Spray the inside of the housing with a contact cleaner (figure D).
The LED bulb goes in just like the old bulb came out. Push gently until you feel it bottom out, and then turn the bulb clockwise in the socket to lock it into place (figure E)..Replace the bulb assembly in the housing, and reinstall the cover. Repeat the procedure with the passenger-side bulb.Most bulbs should come out easily, but if one is giving you trouble, don't force it without first putting on a pair of gloves for protection. If a bulb breaks or comes loose from the base, use needle-nose pliers to grip the base (figure F). and use the same push-and-turn motion to remove it.
The Accord has another set of taillights in the trunk lid that are replaced the same way. The high-mount taillight bulb is accessed through the trunk as well (figure G).
RESOURCES :
Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guide: Import Cars (Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guides)
Author: Joe Pettitt
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Voyageur Press (October 2000)
ISBN: 1884089526
Honda & Acura Performance Handbook (Performance Handbooks)
Author: Mike Ancas
Order this title from Amazon.com.
June, 1999
Publisher: Motorbooks International
ISBN: 0760306699
Honda/Acura Engine Performance: How to Modify D, B and H Series Honda/Acura Engines for Street and Drag Racing Performance
Author: Mike Kojima
Order this title from Amazon.com.
April 2002
Publisher: HP Books
ISBN: 155788384X
Honda/Acura Performance Handbook: High Performance Modifications for Street and Drag Racing Applications
by the editors of Sport Compact Car Magazine
Order this title from Amazon.com.
November 1999
Publisher: HP Books
ISBN: 1557883246
Special Resources for Tricked Out, episode 112
Racing Innovations, Inc.
We apologize no contact information is available.
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