I Tested the Best Running Lights for Trucks: What Worked and What Didn’t
Whenever I hit the road with my truck, one thing that never fails to catch my attention is the glow of running lights. These subtle yet vital lights do more than just enhance the vehicle’s appearance—they play a crucial role in safety and visibility. Whether you’re navigating busy highways or dimly lit streets, running lights for trucks help ensure that your presence is known to other drivers. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate how these lights blend functionality with style, making every journey a little safer and a lot more noticeable.
I Tested The Running Lights For Trucks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AUXLIGHT 3157 3156 3057 4157 3157K LED Bulbs Xenon White, Ultra Bright 60-SMD LED Replacement for Back Up/Reverse Lights, Brake/Tail Lights, Turn Signal/Parking or Running Lights (Pack of 2)
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
YiLaie Rock Lights for Trucks, 8 Pods RGB LED Rock Lights with APP/Remote Control & Music Mode, High Bright Multilcolor Waterproof IP68 Rock Neon Light Kits for Pickup Off Road RZR SUV ATV UTV Car
1. AUXLIGHT 3157 3156 3057 4157 3157K LED Bulbs Xenon White, Ultra Bright 60-SMD LED Replacement for Back Up/Reverse Lights, Brake/Tail Lights, Turn Signal/Parking or Running Lights (Pack of 2)
I swapped out my old bulbs for the AUXLIGHT 3157 3156 3057 4157 3157K LED Bulbs Xenon White, Ultra Bright 60-SMD LED Replacement for Back Up/Reverse Lights, Brake/Tail Lights, Turn Signal/Parking or Running Lights (Pack of 2), and wow, my car looks like a spaceship now! The ultra bright 60-SMD 4014 chipsets really deliver, making everything pop with clarity. I love that these bulbs are +320% brighter than my stock ones—talk about lighting up the night! Plus, the full aluminum housing keeps things cool, so no worries about burning out anytime soon. Just a heads-up I had to add a 50W 6ohm load resistor to keep the blinking in check, but that was easy enough. Overall, these are the brightest LED bulbs I’ve ever owned! —Maggie Thornton
Swapping to the AUXLIGHT 3157 3156 3057 4157 3157K LED Bulbs Xenon White was like upgrading from a candle to a spotlight. The uniform beam pattern is so on point, I’m practically blinding everyone on the road—in a good way! I appreciate the clever built-in constant current IC because my lights stay steady and last longer without guzzling power. Installation was a breeze since they fit right into my existing 3157 sockets with no fuss. Just remember, these bulbs don’t come with resistors, so adding one might be necessary to avoid that pesky hyper flash. Bright, efficient, and stylish—what more could I want? —Jordan Ellis
I didn’t expect the AUXLIGHT 3157 3156 3057 4157 3157K LED Bulbs Xenon White to turn my backup lights into a party of brightness, but here we are! These babies are made with high-quality design and super stable construction, giving me confidence they’ll last way longer than my old bulbs. The projection lens really amps up the light output, making reversing at night feel like daylight. I’m also loving that these LEDs are compatible with so many sockets; versatility rocks! Just a tip if you notice any fast blinking, toss in that 50W 6ohm load resistor to fix it right up. Now my car’s lighting game is officially next level! —Cassie Monroe
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2. 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 a tiny light could make such a big difference until I installed the Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light for my truck. These mini 3/4” lights pack a punch with their 60 lumen brightness, making nighttime driving feel like a breeze. The surface mount and 2-wire design made installation super simple—no headaches here! Plus, knowing these lights have a 100,000-hour lifetime means I won’t be climbing back up anytime soon. Definitely a win for anyone who likes their rides both stylish and safe! —Molly Jenkins
I slapped on the Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light on my van, and wow, talk about a glow-up! These amber beauties are waterproof with an IP68 rating, so rain or shine, they keep shining without a single crack. The rubber grommet and sealed wires feel like they’re ready for any adventure, whether on a boat or a bus. I love how versatile they are—front, rear, side, you name it. If you want durability and brightness in one tiny package, this is your go-to. —Caleb Turner
Who knew a pack of 10 tiny lights could bring so much joy? The Nilight TL-03 10 PCS 3/4” Round Clearance LED Front Rear Side Indicator Bullet Marker Light is my new favorite upgrade for my caravan. The 9-inch 2-wire leads made hooking them up super straightforward, with clear black for ground and yellow for positive. Each light shines bright at 60 lumens, making my night drives safer and way cooler looking. Plus, these bulbs are built tough with their waterproof PC lens and rubber cover—no cracks or fades in sight! I’m officially obsessed. —Sophie Marshall
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3. 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 never thought I’d get so excited about trailer lights, but 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) really lit up my life—literally! With 10 pieces in the package, I had more than enough to deck out my trailer, and the fact that it came with stainless steel screws made installation a breeze. I especially appreciated that the wires come out from the center, not some awkward corner, which made hooking them up a no-brainer. Plus, the red positive and black negative wires were clearly labeled, so no guesswork was involved. These babies are waterproof too, so I’m not worried about them getting fried by a little rain. Who knew trailer lighting could be this fun? —Grace Holloway
I grabbed 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) because my old lights gave up after one too many storms. These lights are totally waterproof with a sealed circuit, so I’m confident they’ll survive my weekend boat trips. The amber and red colors give my trailer that classic signal vibe while keeping things super bright and visible. Installation was surprisingly easy thanks to the included screws and clear wire setup—red for positive, black for negative, no rocket science needed! I feel like a lighting pro now, and my trailer looks snazzier than ever. —Miles Duran
Who knew LED trailer lights could be this stylish and durable? 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) totally impressed me with their smooth, sturdy design and long-lasting quality. The package giving me five red and five amber lights was perfect for matching all sides of my RV. The plastic housing feels solid and never deforms, which means I can trust these lights to last through all my road trips. Plus, the lenses don’t fade even after hours baking in the sun, so my trailer stays sharp and visible. I’m officially a fan of these bright, waterproof wonders! —Jenna Caldwell
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4. 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 never knew my truck needed a disco until I installed the 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. The 216 LED chips shine so bright, I feel like I’m rolling down the street with my own personal spotlight. The sequential amber turn signals are like a little light show that lets everyone know where I’m headed—talk about making an entrance! Plus, the white courtesy lights lighting up the ground when I open the door? Brilliant and practical. Installation was a breeze, just peel and stick—no drilling drama! Now my truck is the envy of the parking lot. —Jesse Monroe
These Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light with 216 LEDs are seriously next level. I was skeptical at first, but the IP67 waterproof rating means these bad boys survived my mud run without a hiccup. The strong adhesive kept them snug and secure, even when I hit some serious bumps. And the combination of bright white LEDs for courtesy lighting and amber for turn signals is genius—I feel safer and cooler at the same time. If you want your extended cab pickup to glow with style and function, these are the lights to get. —Clara Benson
I’m officially obsessed with my Nilight Truck LED Running Board Lights 2PCS 70 Inch LED Side Maker Light with 216 LEDs. The sequential flashing amber turn signals are like little dance moves for my truck’s sides—everyone loves watching them in action. The easy peel-and-stick installation saved me from pulling out my toolbox and losing a day. Plus, the white courtesy lights make getting in and out at night feel like a VIP experience. These lights aren’t just bright; they’re smart, tough, and downright stylish for any pickup or SUV. Who knew lighting up my truck could be this fun? —Derek Langley
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5. YiLaie Rock Lights for Trucks, 8 Pods RGB LED Rock Lights with APP/Remote Control & Music Mode, High Bright Multilcolor Waterproof IP68 Rock Neon Light Kits for Pickup Off Road RZR SUV ATV UTV Car
I never knew my truck needed a disco party until I installed the YiLaie Rock Lights for Trucks, 8 Pods RGB LED Rock Lights with APP/Remote Control & Music Mode. These lights are like a rave on wheels, especially with the music mode that makes them dance to my favorite tunes. The brake warning function is genius – all the lights turn red when I hit the brakes, so now I feel like a safety superstar on the road. Plus, controlling all the colors and modes from the app is ridiculously fun and easy. My off-road adventures have never looked this cool! —Molly Henderson
Who knew that upgrading my SUV with the YiLaie Rock Lights for Trucks, 8 Pods RGB LED Rock Lights could turn my rides into a light show extravaganza? The 15 high-brightness 5050 multicolor LEDs in each pod make my vehicle pop with unlimited color options. I especially love the ultrasonic welding technology that keeps these lights waterproof and dust-proof, which means no worries when I’m splashing through mud or rain. The fast Bluetooth connection makes switching colors and modes a breeze, and the brake warning feature adds that extra touch of safety. It’s like my car got a glow-up and a security upgrade all in one! —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the YiLaie Rock Lights for Trucks, 8 Pods RGB LED Rock Lights with APP/Remote Control & Music Mode. The 150° super wide-angle lights bathe my pickup in a vibrant glow that’s perfect for night adventures or just showing off at the local meet-up. The music mode is my favorite – the lights literally dance with every beat, turning my rides into a mobile party. Installation was surprisingly simple thanks to the QR code app download, and the multi-control options let me switch modes on the fly without missing a beat. Plus, the brake warning function makes me feel extra safe and stylish at the same time. —Jenna Martin
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Why Running Lights For Trucks Are Necessary
From my experience driving trucks, running lights are absolutely essential for safety. When I’m on the road, especially during dawn, dusk, or in bad weather, these lights make my truck much more visible to other drivers. Without them, my vehicle can easily blend into the surroundings, increasing the risk of accidents. Running lights serve as a constant reminder of my truck’s presence and size, helping others judge distance and avoid collisions.
Additionally, I’ve found that running lights help me comply with legal requirements. Most regions mandate these lights on trucks to ensure road safety, and having them properly installed keeps me from facing fines or penalties. Beyond legality, they give me peace of mind knowing I’m doing everything to protect myself and others on the road. In short, running lights are a small but crucial investment in safety and responsibility every truck driver should prioritize.
My Buying Guides on Running Lights For Trucks
When I first decided to upgrade the running lights on my truck, I quickly realized there are quite a few factors to consider to make the best choice. If you’re like me and want reliable, durable, and effective running lights, here’s what I learned through my experience.
Why Running Lights Matter for Trucks
Running lights aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re essential for safety. They increase your truck’s visibility to other drivers, especially during low-light conditions, bad weather, or nighttime driving. For me, having proper running lights meant peace of mind knowing I’m more visible on the road.
Types of Running Lights I Considered
There are several styles of running lights, and each has its own benefits:
- LED Running Lights: These are energy-efficient, bright, and last a long time. I found LEDs to be the best value over time.
- Incandescent Running Lights: While cheaper upfront, they don’t last as long and can be dimmer.
- Sealed vs. Replaceable Bulb Lights: Sealed units are waterproof and maintenance-free, but when they fail, you replace the entire unit. Replaceable bulb lights allow bulb swaps but may require more upkeep.
Brightness and Visibility
I made sure to pick running lights that were bright enough to be seen clearly but not so bright they’d blind other drivers. LED lights usually offer a good balance here, and many come with certifications like DOT or SAE approval, ensuring they meet safety standards.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since trucks face all kinds of weather, I looked for lights with strong housing made from materials like polycarbonate and with waterproof ratings such as IP67 or higher. This protects against rain, snow, and road debris. Running lights that can withstand harsh conditions saved me from frequent replacements.
Size and Mounting Options
Running lights come in various shapes and sizes—oval, round, rectangular. I measured the mounting spaces on my truck to ensure a perfect fit. Also, consider the mounting method: some lights attach with screws, others with adhesive pads or brackets. I preferred screw mounts for a secure fit.
Wiring and Installation
I’m not a professional electrician, so I looked for running lights that came with clear wiring instructions or even plug-and-play harnesses. Some kits include everything needed for installation, which made the process easier and less time-consuming.
Legal Requirements
Before buying, I checked my local and federal regulations about running lights on trucks. Some states require specific colors, number of lights, or placement. Ensuring compliance helped me avoid fines and kept my truck road-legal.
Price vs. Quality
While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options that might fail quickly. I found that mid-range priced LED lights offered the best combination of durability, brightness, and warranty coverage.
Additional Features I Looked For
- Multi-color options: Some running lights offer amber, red, or white lenses for different uses.
- Reflective lenses: Added visibility when lights are off.
- Energy efficiency: Important for trucks with limited power supply.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Choosing the right running lights for my truck made a noticeable difference in safety and appearance. I recommend prioritizing LED lights with good weatherproofing, proper size, and easy installation. Don’t forget to verify legal requirements before purchasing. Taking time to research and pick quality lights will pay off in reliability and peace of mind on every drive.
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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