Car Christmas Lights: A Festive Guide To Installation

Decorating your car with Christmas lights is a fun way to celebrate the holiday season and spread some cheer. However, it's important to note that there are safety and legal considerations to keep in mind. While it may be tempting to go all out, it's best to start small and use battery-powered lights that are easy to remove. To power your lights, you'll need either a power inverter or 12-volt Christmas lights. Attaching the lights with zip ties, magnets, or gaffer's tape will ensure they stay securely in place. Remember to tuck in the wires for better aesthetics and safety, and always check your local laws before hitting the road.

Check local laws before driving with Christmas lights on your car

While it may be tempting to deck your car out with Christmas lights, it's important to check local laws before doing so. In some places, it is illegal to drive with Christmas lights on your car, and you may be fined or face other penalties if you are found to be violating the law. Even if it is allowed in your area, there may be specific regulations you need to follow.

For example, in Illinois, it is illegal to drive with any lights turned on that did not come with the vehicle as standard. The Illinois State Police advise against it, and the state's Vehicle Code is very specific about what lights a motor vehicle can and cannot have. The law states that if the lighting or lighting combination is not included in the statute, then it is illegal. This is to prevent other drivers from confusing colourful lights with emergency vehicles. However, this law does not apply when participating in parades.

In California, there are laws that prohibit additional lights on your car that are not standard factory lights. This means that you may not be able to legally drive with Christmas lights on your vehicle in this state.

Even if it is legal in your area, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure that the lights are securely attached and do not obstruct your view or the view of other drivers. Also, check that the lights are in good working order and are not becoming loose or frayed. Finally, be mindful of other drivers and avoid using lights that are too bright or distracting.

Use a power inverter to power the lights

Using a Power Inverter to Power Christmas Lights on Your Car

If you want to put Christmas lights on your car, you will need to use a power inverter to power them. This is because standard Christmas lights are designed to run on 110V AC, while most vehicle electrical systems are 12V DC. A power inverter converts your car's DC power to AC, allowing you to use your standard Christmas lights.

Types of Power Inverters

There are two main types of power inverters: modified sine power inverters and pure sine power inverters. Modified sine power inverters are more common and affordable, but pure sine power inverters provide a cleaner and more stable power source.

Choosing the Right Power Inverter

When choosing a power inverter, it is important to consider the wattage of your Christmas lights. A good rule of thumb is to select an inverter with twice the power capabilities of your needed wattage to ensure a safe and creative experience. For example, if your Christmas lights require 400 watts, choose an inverter with a minimum of 800 watts.

Connecting the Power Inverter

Once you have selected the right power inverter, you can connect it to your car's DC power using a cigarette lighter receptacle. This will allow you to power your Christmas lights from your car's electrical system. Make sure to check the voltage and amperage ratings of your car's cigarette lighter to ensure it can handle the power requirements of your inverter.

Safety Precautions

When using a power inverter to power Christmas lights on your car, it is important to take some safety precautions. Always unplug the lights and inverter when your car is turned off to prevent battery drain. Additionally, be cautious when handling the lights and inverter to avoid electrical shocks. Keep children and pets away from the lights and inverter at all times.

Legal Considerations

It is important to note that using Christmas lights on your car may be illegal in some localities. Check with your local law enforcement or transportation authority to understand the regulations in your area. Even if it is legal, use common sense and avoid driving with the lights on if they are distracting to other drivers or affect your visibility.

Attach the lights with zip ties, magnets, gaffer tape, or duct tape

When it comes to attaching Christmas lights to your car, you have a few options. Zip ties are a popular choice, as they are easy to attach to the rack, grill, mirrors, and bumper—the parts of the car where lights are usually strung. They are also very secure, which is important when driving at high speeds.

Another option is magnets. These are less common, but they can be effective if you're looking for a more temporary solution. You can also use gaffer tape, which is a heavy-duty tape that won't leave any residue behind. This is a good choice if you're concerned about damaging your car's paint job.

Finally, duct tape is an option, but it's not recommended. It will leave a sticky residue behind, and it may not be strong enough to keep your lights securely attached. If you do use duct tape, be sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it won't damage your paint.

Tuck in the wires for aesthetics and safety

Once you've attached the Christmas lights to your car, it's time to tuck in the wires for a neat finish. This step is important for both aesthetics and safety. You don't want any wires sticking out, which can be a safety hazard, especially if they can be reached by children.

To do this, you can work with the weatherstripped parts of your car. Follow the curvature of these parts, stringing the wires through and taping them down as you go. You can use electrical tape for added protection and to keep the wires securely in place.

It's important to remember that you are dealing with electrical wiring, so take the necessary precautions. Do not attempt to install the lights if there is any chance of your car getting wet, whether from rain, snow, or any other reason. Make sure the lights you are using are safe for outdoor use and have been tested accordingly. Keep children away from the car during the installation process.

Be careful with the lights if there is moisture

When decorating your car with Christmas lights, it is important to be cautious and stay safe. Water, snow, and electricity can be a dangerous combination. To avoid any mishaps, it is recommended to only use 110v AC lights inside your car or string lights on the outside when the weather is dry. The safest option is to remove the lights whenever moisture is likely, such as during snow, rain, or sleet.

If you are using 110v AC lights, be aware that they can deliver a harmful or even fatal shock if not handled properly. Keep children away from the wiring to avoid any shock hazards. Additionally, make sure to check your local laws regarding the legality of operating lights that could distract other drivers. Local ordinances vary, and you don't want to inadvertently break the law.

If you plan to drive with the Christmas lights on your car, it is advisable to avoid excessive speeds and be mindful of other drivers' needs. Pull over occasionally to stop and check that the lights are secure and safe. Remember, safety should always come first!

Frequently asked questions