LED RING BRAKE LIGHT INSTALLATION - SPARE TIRE 3RD BRAKE LIGHT HOWTO

June 23, 2019

Learn how to install an LED ring brake light on your Jeep's spare tire in this step-by-step guide.

Quick Look

Category

Mods, Maintenance, Gear

Brand

Generic

Product

LED Spare Tire Brake Light

Use Case

Adding a third brake light to a Jeep with a spare tire

Useful Links

• Helpful Link
• Helpful Link

Overview

Installing a third brake light on your Jeep’s spare tire can enhance visibility and safety, particularly when off-roading or driving at night. In this tutorial, we will walk through the steps to install an LED ring brake light, connecting it seamlessly to your existing brake light circuit.

What This Covers

This guide will cover the installation process, including:

• Preparation and safety considerations
• Wiring connections
• Testing the setup
• Finalizing the installation

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Gather Materials: Before you begin, ensure you have the LED brake light, wiring tools (like a wire stripper and crimping tool), electrical tape, and a zip tie.
2. Remove the Spare Tire: Start by removing the spare tire from your Jeep. This gives you clear access to the rear brake light assembly.
3. Access the Brake Light: Unscrew the screws holding the existing brake light in place. Disconnect the wiring harness to free the light.
4. Identify Wires: Once you have access, identify the positive and ground wires—typically, the white wire with a red stripe is positive, and the black wire is ground.
5. Make the Connection: Use a military splice technique to tap into these wires without cutting them. Carefully expose enough wire for a good connection.
6. Testing Connections: Before finalizing your installation, plug in the new LED brake light and test it by pressing the brake pedal. Ensure the light illuminates correctly.
7. Secure Everything: Once tested, secure the wiring with electrical tape and zip ties to prevent any loose connections. Make sure nothing is pinched or at risk of abrasion.
8. Reassemble: Reattach the brake light assembly, screw it back into place, and replace the spare tire.

Helpful Tips

• Consider using liquid electrical tape for extra protection against moisture and corrosion.
• While working, always be cautious of exposed wires to avoid short circuits.
• If you’re unsure of your wiring skills, consult a professional to help with the installation.

Key Takeaways

Installing an LED ring brake light on your Jeep's spare tire is not only a practical safety upgrade but also a great DIY project. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can enhance the visibility of your vehicle while maintaining the functionality of your original brake lights.