Answering the buyer’s search intent, this guide highlights five top LED running board light kits that boost visibility, style, and safety for extended and crew cab trucks as well as SUVs. These picks are best for drivers who want bright door courtesy lighting, reliable amber turn signals, and durable waterproof performance. The top options cater to those who value straightforward installation, weather resistance, and clearly defined running-light functions. Read on to compare features, installation notes, and ideal use cases.
Summary Of Chosen Products
| Product | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Nilight 70″ LED Running Board Lights (2 pcs) | Extended & Crew Cab Trucks | 216 LEDs, dual white/camber amber with waterproof IP67 |
| OPT7 Sidekick 78″ Running Board Lights (2 pcs) | Stylish daytime brightness with sequential amber | Exclusive sequential signals, door courtesy light |
| OPT7 Sidekick 86″ Running Board Lights (2 pcs) | Longer wheelbase trucks | Longer length, same sequential design, door assist |
| Nilight 60″ LED Running Board Lights (2 pcs) | Regular cab or two-door trucks | Balanced white/amber with IP67 waterproofing |
| DIBMS 2x 288-LED Strips | Extended Crew Cab trucks, high visibility | 3-in-1 function: white DRL, amber turn, white courtesy |
Nilight 70 Inch LED Running Board Lights
Best for: Extended and crew cab trucks needing strong dual-function lighting. The setup combines 72 white LEDs for door/step lighting and 144 amber LEDs for sequential turn signals, delivering clear visibility both at entry and when signaling turns. The strips are IP67 waterproof with a protective tube and strong adhesive for reliable mounting. Caution: ensure surface is clean before installation for maximum adhesion.
Why selected: The kit emphasizes high brightness with a large LED count and a straightforward two-color design, making it easy to identify the vehicle’s approach and movements. The dual function design supports both daytime visibility and turn signaling, which can enhance safety in urban and off-road environments.
Best practice takeaways:
– Choose this if you own an extended or crew cab truck and want strong door lighting plus clear turn signals.
– Expect solid water resistance and a durable mounting method.
OPT7 Sidekick 78″ Running Board Lights
Best for: Drivers who want visible daytime brightness and vivid amber turn signals along a 78-inch strip. The exclusive sequential signals pair with white courtesy lighting when doors open. The design claims over 100% daytime brightness and weather resilience for stormy conditions.
Why selected: The Sidekick line emphasizes bright daytime visibility and a distinctive turn-signal look, which helps other drivers anticipate your moves. The white courtesy light adds a sense of safety when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Caution: Installation notes indicate careful wiring alignment is necessary; improper connection could affect function. This kit is a solid choice for mid-length applications but verify fit for your vehicle’s wiring layout.
OPT7 Sidekick 86″ Running Board Lights
Best for: Longer wheelbase trucks needing a seamless sequential light strip along the side step. The kit includes amber turn signaling with a door courtesy light to boost nighttime visibility at entry points.
Why selected: This model extends the Sidekick concept to 86 inches, offering more coverage along longer boards while maintaining the same sequential signal logic. It’s a practical pick for vehicles with longer side steps or extended cabs.
Caution: Additional wiring considerations may be required for longer vehicles, and users should avoid mounting from the rear of the truck to prevent incorrect signaling. Plan the route and connections before final mounting.
Nilight 60 Inch LED Running Board Lights
Best for: Regular cab trucks or two-door models needing a balanced combination of white courtesy lights and amber turn signals. The kit uses 144 LEDs total with 72 white and 72 amber, and includes waterproof performance for all-weather use.
Why selected: The 60-inch length offers a solid balance between coverage and fitment for mid-size cabs. It provides a clear running-light function with reliable white courtesy illumination when doors open.
Caution: The installation note mentions possible fit issues on extended or crew cab configurations, so confirm your vehicle type before purchasing. The product is optimized for regular cab trucks.
DIBMS 2x 288-LED Strips (Extended Crew Cab)
Best for: Extended crew cab trucks that require high-visibility lighting across a longer side step. Each kit uses 144 LEDs per strip (72 white + 72 amber) for 3-in-1 functionality: white DRL, amber turn, and white courtesy. Waterproof IP67 build and rugged PVC housing enhance durability.
Why selected: The 288-LED configuration provides strong brightness and noticeable signaling, with multiple modes that improve safety during driving, turning, and entering/exiting. The dual-strip design supports extended cab layouts well.
Caution: Ensure exact measurement for your vehicle’s step length to avoid under- or overhang of the strips. The dual-strip setup may require careful alignment on very tight curves or irregular boards.
Buying Guide
What to consider before buying LED running board lights:
- Vehicle fit: Confirm cab type (regular, extended, or crew) and length of the side boards to match strip length (48″, 60″, 70″, 78″, 86″, etc.).
- Lighting functions: Prioritize amber sequential turn signals for signaling visibility and white courtesy lights for nighttime entry. Some kits offer DRL modes and memory patterns.
- Waterproof and durability: Look for IP67 or higher rating and rugged housings to withstand rain, mud, and car washes.
- Wiring and installation: Check if the kit requires additional wiring, fuse connections, or front-end wiring to power the lights. Some models recommend professional installation for best results.
- Cable management: Assess adhesive strength and included cable ties to minimize movement and ensure secure mounting on curved or textured boards.
Comparison At A Glance
- Best brightness: Nilight 70″ kit with 216 LEDs offers high overall output combining white and amber.
- Best for daytime visibility: OPT7 Sidekick 78″ provides bright daytime brightness with distinctive sequential signaling.
- Best for longer vehicles: OPT7 Sidekick 86″ is designed for longer side boards and longer wheelbases.
- Best value balance: Nilight 60″ keeps a balanced white/amber mix with straightforward installation.
- Best high-visibility extended crew cab: DIBMS 2x 288-LED strips deliver maximum brightness and 3-in-1 functionality.
FAQ
- Q: Do these kits work with any vehicle? A: Most are designed for trucks and SUVs with side-running boards; always verify cab type and mounting length before purchase.
- Q: Are installation wires included? A: Most kits include mounting hardware and basic wiring, but some may require additional wiring or accessories.
- Q: Can I install these myself? A: Many kits are designed for DIY installation with basic tools; some wiring steps may benefit from professional help.
- Q: Do the lights work as both daytime running lights and turn signals? A: Several kits support dual white courtesy lights and amber sequential turn signals; verify the product features to match your vehicle’s wiring system.
- Q: Will these lights be waterproof in all weather? A: Look for IP67 or higher ratings; this provides protection against immersion in water and exposure to mud and rain.
- Q: Do I need to worry about vehicle warranty? A: Some installations may affect warranties if invasive wiring is involved; consult your vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines before installation.