Ok, total newbee with no mechanical inclination asking for help. I want to put a couple of those cool self adhesive strip led lights (they are all over Ebay)
Under my dash, and/or in my trunk. They are 12 volts and have two open wires at the end of each strip. I read the diyb on fog lights and that helps, but I've never done electrical so I figured there are a few thousand of you who have done this and could offer some help. Where do I connect the strips? Do I splice the red/White wire from the fuses? Twist them together then cover with electrical tape? I'm basically asking how to connect them to a power source .I don't need a seperate switch, just something that goes on and off with the headlights, or even when the door or trunk id opened. I'm grateful for any advice you can offer!

 

Self adhesive strip lights can be installed on any flat smooth surface where placement is desired. The strip leds should come with general application instructions.

Basically, you're just wanting to tap into an existing power source which is already fused and switched. For under the dash, locate the courtesy lamp wiring harness and use a crimp style splicing connector to the appropriate wires. The trick here is to know the wiring colors of the item being tapped into, so as to not short anything out in the process. Same basic procedure for the trunk, just find the switched light which comes on when you open up the deck lid.

 

Thanks, could I use the diy posts for fogs or other lighting as a guide? Or will my service manual have a diagram stating what color wires will be for the courtesy light wire?
Oh yeah, the "crimp style splicing connector" uhhh, is this a tool I can buy in a hardware store?
I told you, I'm mechanically challenged. (But not afraid to try! )

 

Yeah, if ya have the factory service manual available.....it'll provide the wiring colors to look for when splicing into. Great info, very helpful !

Just a note of caution when working with electrical items on the car, please be aware of the added precautionary steps....such as the possibility of live voltage within the wiring. If uncertain of the general basics of electricity, you should get some assistance or learn the elements which you'll be dealing with.

Potential shock and component damage may occur if one does not understand the safety basics. Either disconnect the battery cables or remove the appropriate fuse for the circuit which you are working on.

The easiest way to supply power is through an existing switched lighting circuit. Once you determine the correct wires, use a "Tap Splice Kit" which is a plastic enclosure that opens like a jaw to place over the desired wires to be spliced into. A metal clip is squeezed down by pliers, through the wire's insulation to create the tap splice for the new wiring to supply power. Once the wire is pierced, fold the plastic top down over the clip and wires. That's it, all contained and insulated......no need for cutting or taping wires !

 

Again, thanks 3.2! I think your talking about a rectangular box that snaps over the wire. It taps into power source by piercing the wire. As long as I tap into the dome light, the circuit will act similar. Like come on only when the door is opened. I think I can handle this one! Just waiting for the strips to come in the mail. Ill let you know how I make out. Thanks again! !!