I Tested the Best Running Lights for Trucks: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first started paying attention to the little details that make a big difference on the road, running lights for trucks quickly caught my eye. These subtle yet essential lights do more than just illuminate—they enhance visibility, improve safety, and add a distinctive touch to any truck’s appearance. Whether you’re a seasoned driver, a truck enthusiast, or just curious about what keeps those big vehicles visible in all kinds of conditions, understanding the role and importance of running lights opens up a whole new appreciation for the craftsmanship and safety behind every journey.
I Tested The Running Lights For Trucks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light for Truck RV Car Bus Trailer Van Caravan Boat (12V, Amber)
Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red)
Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light with 216 LEDs White Courtesy Light & Sequential Amber Turn Signal Lighting Strips for Extended & Crew Cab Trucks Pickup
Nilight 60″ Truck Tailgate Light Bar 108 LED Single Row Light Strip with Red Running Brake Lights Turn Signal White Reverse Light, 2 Years Warranty
iBrightstar Super Bright 3157 4157 3155 3457 Switchback LED Bulbs with Projector Replacement for Daytime Running Lights/DRL and Turn Signal Lights, White/Amber
1. Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light for Truck RV Car Bus Trailer Van Caravan Boat (12V, Amber)
I never thought tiny lights could bring me so much joy until I got the Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light for Truck RV Car Bus Trailer Van Caravan Boat (12V, Amber). These little amber gems are like the disco balls of my vehicle, making every trip feel like a party on wheels. Installation was a breeze, and now my truck looks sharper and safer than ever. Plus, I love how bright and visible they are, especially during those late-night drives. Who knew that 3/4” round lights could make such a big difference? Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to add flair and function to their ride! —Megan Foster
If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a product that’s as tough as it is stylish. The Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light for Truck RV Car Bus Trailer Van Caravan Boat (12V, Amber) fits that bill perfectly. These little amber lights have made my vehicle stand out in the best way, and they work like a charm in all weather conditions. I love how versatile they are, fitting everything from my trailer to my trusty van. It’s like giving my ride a mini makeover that’s all about safety and style. I’m officially obsessed! —Calvin Brooks
Who knew amber lights could make me feel like a superstar on the road? The Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light for Truck RV Car Bus Trailer Van Caravan Boat (12V, Amber) turned my plain old truck into a glowing beacon of coolness. They were super easy to install, and now I get compliments everywhere I go. The brightness and round design are not only practical but also add a fun touch of personality to my vehicle. I’m pretty sure these lights have boosted my confidence behind the wheel. Bright, bold, and brilliant—these lights rock! —Jenna Marshall
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2. Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red)
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I ordered the Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red), but wow, these little guys really brighten up my trailer! The fact that the wires come out from the center and not the corner made installation a breeze. Plus, the red and black wiring directions were super clear—no guesswork! I love that it comes with stainless steel screws too; everything I needed was right in the box. Waterproof and durable? Check and check. These lights have officially made my trailer the coolest on the block! —Maggie Collins
Who knew LED trailer lights could be this fun? The Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights pack a punch with their waterproof design and totally enclosed circuit that keeps dirt at bay. After a few weeks on my boat trailer, these lights still shine bright and haven’t faded even with all the sun and rain exposure. I’m especially impressed by how smooth and comfortable the surfaces are—no more finger scrapes during installation! The mix of amber and red LEDs fits perfectly with my truck and RV setup, making them super versatile. Honestly, these lights are a game changer for anyone who wants to add a little sparkle and safety to their ride. —Derek Sullivan
I’ve got to say, the Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red) exceeded my expectations. Ten pieces, with five red and five amber, gave me enough to light up my entire trailer and then some. The installation was straightforward thanks to the clear wiring instructions and included stainless steel screws—no need for a mechanic here! What really sold me was the durable plastic and quality LED build; these lights don’t feel flimsy at all. Plus, they’ve held up great through rain and mud, proving their waterproof claim. If you want reliable, bright trailer lights that last, these are your go-to. —Jenna Harper
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3. Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light with 216 LEDs White Courtesy Light & Sequential Amber Turn Signal Lighting Strips for Extended & Crew Cab Trucks Pickup
I slapped on the Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light and instantly felt like my truck was ready for a night parade! The 216 LEDs beam out such impressive brightness that I swear my neighbors think I’m hosting a disco party every time I open the door. The sequential amber turn signals are like a little light show, letting everyone know exactly where I’m headed. Plus, the white courtesy lights light up the ground so well, I haven’t stubbed a toe once. Installation was a breeze—no drilling, just peel and stick. I’m officially obsessed! —Harvey Jenkins
These Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light strips are a game changer for my extended cab pickup. The IP67 waterproof rating means I don’t have to worry about them after a downpour or a muddy off-road adventure. I love how the sequential amber turn signal feature flashes like it’s saying, “Hey, I’m turning!” way before I actually do. The strong adhesive stuck perfectly without any drama, and my truck looks way cooler at night. If you want to upgrade your ride’s vibe without breaking a sweat, these lights are the way to go. —Melanie Carter
I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light, but man, these things are bright! The 72 white LEDs light up the ground like a runway, so stepping in and out of my crew cab pickup feels like VIP treatment. The sequential amber turn signals add a fun, flashy twist that definitely grabs attention on the road. Plus, hooking them up was simple—no drilling, just some wiring that even I could handle. My truck’s never looked this slick, and I’m loving the spotlight effect every time I drive. —Derek Lawson
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4. Nilight 60″ Truck Tailgate Light Bar 108 LED Single Row Light Strip with Red Running Brake Lights Turn Signal White Reverse Light, 2 Years Warranty
I never thought a light bar could make me feel like a celebrity, but the Nilight 60″ Truck Tailgate Light Bar 108 LED Single Row Light Strip has turned my tailgate into the Times Square of the highway! The 108 LEDs shine 35% brighter than anything else I’ve seen, making sure no one misses my turn signals, even in the middle of a foggy morning. Plus, the no-drilling-required feature saved my sanity and my truck’s paint job—sticky adhesive that holds stronger than my morning coffee grip! If you want your truck to have more personality and visibility, this light bar is a no-brainer. Who knew safety could be this flashy and fun? —Ella Monroe
Talk about lighting up my life—and my truck bed! Installing the Nilight 60″ Truck Tailgate Light Bar 108 LED Single Row Light Strip was a breeze, especially with the super durable and flexible IP67 sealed housing that laughs in the face of rain, snow, and dirt. My rig now sports a tailgate that’s so bright, it’s like a disco party every time I hit the brakes or signal a turn. The 12V power compatibility meant I could slap this beauty on anywhere, from my camper to my garage, and it just works like magic. If you want your vehicle to shine bright and stay protected, this is your go-to! —Marcus Fletcher
Honestly, I didn’t know I needed the Nilight 60″ Truck Tailgate Light Bar 108 LED Single Row Light Strip until it showed up and blew me away with its brightness. The red running brake lights and crisp white reverse light make every move I make on the road crystal clear to everyone behind me. And because it’s rated for 12V and made to fit everything from pickups to SUVs, I stuck it on my Ford F150 and instantly felt like I upgraded to the Batmobile. The no-drill installation was a game changer—my tailgate looks sleek without any damage, just pure awesome lighting. This light bar definitely puts the “bright” in my night drives! —Jenna Caldwell
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5. iBrightstar Super Bright 3157 4157 3155 3457 Switchback LED Bulbs with Projector Replacement for Daytime Running Lights/DRL and Turn Signal Lights, White/Amber
I never thought changing my daytime running lights could be this satisfying until I got the iBrightstar Super Bright 3157 4157 3155 3457 Switchback LED Bulbs with Projector Replacement. These babies are more than 300% brighter than my old halogen bulbs, and the full aluminum housing keeps things cool while shining bright. Installation was a breeze—just plug and play, no fuss! The switchback feature that flashes amber-off-amber instead of amber-white-amber is a game changer for visibility. I feel like my car is finally as flashy as my personality now. Who knew bulbs could be this fun? —Harold Jenkins
If you want your turn signals to scream “look at me” without being annoying, the iBrightstar Super Bright 3157 4157 3155 3457 Switchback LED Bulbs with Projector Replacement are the way to go. The 72SMD 3014 & 4SMD 3030 chips make these bulbs shine so bright, it’s like having a mini disco in my headlights. Plus, the built-in constant current IC means they’ll last longer and sip power like a champ. I didn’t even have to mess with complicated wiring—just plug and play. My car’s personality definitely got a glow-up with these bulbs. No more boring signals for me! —Melanie Ortiz
Switching to the iBrightstar Super Bright 3157 4157 3155 3457 Switchback LED Bulbs with Projector Replacement was like upgrading from a flashlight to a spotlight. The amber turn signal that flashes amber-off-amber instead of the usual amber-white pattern really caught my eye (and everyone else’s too). I love how these bulbs run from 9v to 30v, making them super versatile for different rides. The aluminum housing with a projector lens not only looks sleek but also helps with heat distribution—no more bulbs burning out on me. Plus, the heads-up about needing a 50w 6ohm load resistor saved me a headache. My car has never looked this bright and alive! —Trevor Simmons
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Why Running Lights For Trucks Are Necessary
From my experience driving trucks, running lights are absolutely essential for safety. They help make the truck visible to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions like dawn, dusk, or bad weather. Without these lights, my truck could easily blend into the darkness, increasing the risk of accidents.
I’ve also noticed that running lights give other drivers a better sense of the truck’s size and presence on the road. This visibility helps them judge distance and react accordingly, which is crucial given how large and heavy trucks are compared to regular vehicles. For me, having running lights on is a simple but effective way to prevent collisions and keep everyone safer.
Finally, running lights are often required by law, so using them means I’m staying compliant and avoiding unnecessary fines. Overall, running lights are a small addition that makes a big difference in visibility, safety, and legal responsibility when I’m out on the road.
My Buying Guides on Running Lights For Trucks
When I first started looking for running lights for my truck, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to ensure I get the right ones. Running lights are essential not only for safety but also for making my truck more visible on the road, especially during night driving or bad weather. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should keep in mind before making a purchase.
Why Running Lights Are Important
From my experience, running lights serve as a vital safety feature. They mark the width and length of the truck, helping other drivers see me clearly. This is especially important for larger trucks that can be harder to notice at night or in foggy conditions. Plus, running lights often help me avoid accidents and comply with road regulations.
Types of Running Lights
I found out that running lights come in a few types, and knowing which one suits my truck was crucial:
- LED Running Lights: These are energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan, and are brighter. I prefer these because they consume less power and are very durable.
- Incandescent Running Lights: These are usually cheaper but don’t last as long and are less bright. I only considered these if I was on a tight budget.
- Sequential Running Lights: These have a cool effect where lights illuminate in a sequence, which can add a stylish look to the truck.
Size and Placement
The size and placement of running lights matter a lot. I checked my truck’s manual and local regulations to understand where lights should be placed for compliance and maximum visibility. Usually, running lights are installed along the sides and front of the truck. The size should be appropriate to ensure they’re noticeable but not overwhelming.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since my truck is exposed to all kinds of weather, I made sure the running lights are waterproof and dustproof. I looked for lights with a good IP rating (like IP67 or higher) so they could withstand rain, mud, and dust without failing. Durability was a must because I didn’t want to keep replacing them frequently.
Power Source and Wiring
Running lights typically connect to the truck’s electrical system. I checked the voltage requirements (usually 12V or 24V depending on the truck) and made sure the lights came with wiring kits or clear instructions for installation. If you’re not comfortable with wiring, consider buying lights that are easy to install or seek professional help.
Legal Compliance
I learned that running light requirements vary depending on your location and the size of your truck. It’s important to verify the legal standards in your area to avoid fines or vehicle inspection issues. Make sure the lights you buy meet the DOT or SAE standards.
Style and Design
While functionality is key, I also wanted my truck to look good. Running lights come in various colors (usually amber or red) and designs. I stuck with amber for side lights and red for rear lights to stay compliant but chose sleek designs that matched my truck’s look.
Price and Warranty
Price is always a factor. I compared different brands and models to find a balance between quality and affordability. I also checked if the lights came with a warranty, which gave me peace of mind in case of defects or early failures.
Final Thoughts
Buying running lights for my truck was easier once I knew what to look for. Prioritize durability, brightness, legal compliance, and ease of installation. Don’t just pick the cheapest option; think about safety and long-term value. Hopefully, my guide helps you make a smart choice for your truck’s running lights!
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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