Is It Safe to Install Ambient Lighting in the Car?
3 Answers
Installing ambient lighting in the car is not safe. Below is an introduction to ambient lighting in vehicles: Impact of installing ambient lighting: It is important to note that the color of the lighting may affect normal safe driving. When driving at night, if the interior lights are on, the windshield acts like a mirror, reflecting the interior lights into the driver's eyes. This can make it difficult for the driver to see darker road conditions ahead, increasing the risk of accidents. Reasons not to install ambient lighting: Installing interior ambient lighting is a delicate task. The wiring inside a car is complex, with specific regulations for circuit load and voltage. Any mistakes can lead to troublesome consequences later on, so it requires a high level of professionalism and attention to detail. Therefore, it is recommended that there is no need to install ambient lighting in the car. The wiring inside a car is complex, with specific regulations for circuit load and voltage. Any mistakes can lead to troublesome consequences later on, so it requires a high level of professionalism and attention to detail. Therefore, it is recommended that there is no need to install ambient lighting in the car.
I've seen quite a few cases where proper installation is crucial for safe ambient lighting in cars. If you DIY the wiring carelessly, especially by tapping power randomly from the fuse box or under the steering wheel, it can easily cause circuit overload or even short-circuit fires. There was a case where substandard light strips overheated and ignited the interior, with serious consequences. I strongly recommend using only professional installers with OEM parts or certified products – those low-voltage LED strips with fused wiring harnesses are much safer. Installation locations matter too; avoid airbag zones and areas near the throttle/brake pedals. Some people like mounting strips along dashboard edges, but if they come loose during bumps, they can obstruct vision dangerously. Bottom line: Buy quality products and get professional installation, then ambient lighting remains a safe entertainment feature.
From my personal experience, the safety of ambient lighting mainly depends on selection and installation. When purchasing lights, opt for products with flame-retardant material casings and IP waterproof ratings, such as some reliable cold light strips from well-known manufacturers on the market. During installation, never take shortcuts by plugging them directly into the cigarette lighter. Instead, use an independent switch to control the power to avoid draining the battery. My own car has had ambient lighting for three years, installed by a modification technician who completely isolated the wiring for independent power supply. As long as you avoid running it at maximum brightness for extended periods while driving, it won’t affect the car. Of course, light color is also crucial—harsh red or blue lights can interfere with nighttime driving, while a soft warm white is ideal. With proper installation and regular maintenance checks on the wiring, there should be no issues.
