Installing LED strip lights on your 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 is a great way to enhance the vehicle’s appearance, improve visibility, and add a custom touch to your truck. Whether you’re installing them under the dashboard, along the bed, or beneath the chassis, this guide will take you through the step-by-step process of installing LED strip lights on your Chevy Silverado.
Materials You’ll Need:
- LED strip lights (waterproof for exterior use)
- Electrical wire connectors or crimp connectors
- 12V power source or fuse tap adapter
- Wire strippers
- Soldering iron (optional)
- Zip ties or adhesive mounting clips
- Electrical tape
- Multimeter (optional)
- Switch (optional)
- Fuse box diagram (for power source)
Step 1: Choose the Location for Your LED Strip Lights
First, decide where you want to install your LED strip lights. Popular locations include:
- Interior: Under the dashboard or seats to illuminate the floor area.
- Exterior: Under the truck’s chassis for a glowing underbody effect, or along the truck bed to improve cargo visibility at night.
For external installations, make sure you choose waterproof LED strips to handle exposure to weather elements.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the LED Strips
Measure the area where you plan to install the lights to determine how much LED strip you will need. Most LED strips are cuttable at designated points, usually marked with a small line or scissors symbol. Cut your strip at these marks to ensure the strip remains functional after cutting.
Step 3: Prepare the Surface
Before attaching the LED strip lights, clean the surface where the strips will be mounted. This ensures the adhesive backing sticks properly. For exterior installations, this is especially important as dust or dirt could affect the bond.
Step 4: Mount the LED Strip Lights
Peel off the adhesive backing from the LED strip and carefully press the strip into place on the desired location. If you’re installing the lights under the truck, consider using zip ties or adhesive mounting clips for added security, as the adhesive may loosen due to dirt and vibration.
Step 5: Plan the Wiring Route
Now, plan how to route the wires from the LED strips to the power source. For interior installations, you can often hide the wires beneath panels or trim. For exterior installations, route the wires safely to avoid heat sources, sharp edges, or moving parts. Use zip ties to secure the wires and prevent them from dangling.
Step 6: Connect the Power Source
To power your LED strip lights, you’ll need to connect them to a 12V power source in your Silverado. Here are two common methods:
- Use the Fuse Box: You can tap into an existing fuse using a fuse tap adapter. This method ensures the LED strips turn on and off with your vehicle’s ignition.
- Locate your vehicle’s fuse box (usually under the dashboard or in the engine bay).
- Identify a fuse that powers an accessory you want the LED lights to work with (like 2013 Chevy Silverado led headlights or interior lights).
- Use a multimeter to verify the voltage of the fuse.
- Attach the positive wire from the LED strip to the fuse tap adapter.
- Direct Connection to the Battery: For a constant power source, you can connect the LED strip lights directly to the vehicle’s battery. Make sure to include an in-line fuse to protect the circuit. This method will require installing a switch to control the lights.
- Connect the positive wire from the LED strips to the battery’s positive terminal (using an in-line fuse for safety).
- Connect the negative wire to a clean, unpainted metal surface (ground) on the vehicle’s chassis.
Step 7: Connect the Wires
Depending on your preference, you can connect the wires using crimp connectors, electrical tape, or soldering them together for a more permanent solution. Make sure the connections are secure and insulated to prevent shorts or loose connections. If you’re using a switch, connect the switch inline with the positive wire so you can turn the LED lights on and off manually.
Step 8: Test the LED Lights
Once everything is connected, turn on your Chevy Silverado and test the LED strip lights. If they don’t turn on, check all connections, power sources, and fuse settings. Use a multimeter to troubleshoot any electrical issues.
Step 9: Finalize the Installation
Once you’ve confirmed the lights are working properly, tidy up any excess wires with zip ties and secure them away from heat, moisture, and moving parts. If you’re installing exterior LED strip lights, consider sealing any exposed connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to prevent corrosion and water damage.
Step 10: Enjoy Your New LED Strip Lights
Your LED strip lights are now installed! Whether you added them for extra interior ambiance or to create a striking underbody glow, your 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 will now stand out with improved visibility and a custom look.
Tips for a Successful Installation:
- Choose the Right Strips: Always select waterproof LED strips for exterior use. Look for high-quality strips that are rated for outdoor conditions.
- Use Proper Power Sources: Ensure that your LED strips are compatible with the power source you choose (12V DC). Improper voltage can damage the LEDs.
- Test Before Finalizing: Always test the lights before securing everything in place to avoid having to redo the wiring if something doesn’t work.
- Consider a Remote Control: Some LED strip lights come with remote controls for easy color changes or turning them on/off. These can add convenience and style to your setup.
By following these steps, you’ll have successfully installed LED strip lights on your 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500, adding both style and functionality to your truck.
