Puddle Lights

[j3nsmz5]

Found a DIY thread on MZ3 forum and it sparked an interest to me. So I went ahead and did it; puddle lights integrated on the side mirror. The wiring is via the dome light, so they light the same way as how the dome light would light up. Took pics with my phone will probably get better pics later. The puddle lights really help light up the front doors and its surroundings. The bulbs are Cree type LEDs, Cool white, with projector lens from this source.

 

[rsvinylgraphics]

Nice

 

[j3nsmz5]

Thanks.

 

[biking4jesus]

nice! i had done that to my mz3, you might have spotted some of my posts about it.

problem w/ LEDs is that they arent meant to dim/fade. ive had to replace each side 1x and now they are dead again.

good luck! the CREE + lens probably makes better pattern

 

[j3nsmz5]

Thanks for the tip. Yeah I've had my share of failed LEDs in my cars too. It's really just hit or miss. So far the LEDs I've had on my MZ5's dome light and map light have lasted for the past 2.5 yrs and on my Audi A4 that use the dimming feature. I've been cautious where I get my LEDs. For the most part, I've had pretty good luck on LEDs that I've gotten from reputable sources. I sure hope this one last just as long..if not, I can always replace them for a very inexpensive cost.

 

[kw_da]

Nice work, how hard to install? Any pictures, suggestions on install? Where did you tap the dome light?

When I ran speaker wires to the door it was a pain to get them thru the rubber gasket, this will add another wire.

 

[Silentnoise713]

Nice job! I wanted to do this for a while but not motivated enought to do it. Also, I'm undecided if the light is best there or on the door panel (kick light) or on the top of the door frame (ala Caddy).

The limitation with putting them on the side view mirror is that when you open the door, it blocks most of the light. You'd have to turn on the done light and close the door to make use of the light. I know I've dropped small things at night but the smart phone's light works in a pinch for now.

 

[j3nsmz5]

Nice work, how hard to install? Any pictures, suggestions on install? Where did you tap the dome light?

When I ran speaker wires to the door it was a pain to get them thru the rubber gasket, this will add another wire.

Not too difficult, just time consuming. I ran the wires through the rubber boot on the door too. That was really the most time-consuming part that and fishing the wires into the interior. Shouldn't be too tough for you since you've already had an experience wiring through the rubber boot. I would suggest 20 gauge wires to fit through the harness, plus the wiring on the bulb come with 20 gauge anyhow. I tapped into the dome/map lights. Click here to give you a reference on wiring. GL.

Nice job! I wanted to do this for a while but not motivated enought to do it. Also, I'm undecided if the light is best there or on the door panel (kick light) or on the top of the door frame (ala Caddy).

Go for it! I thought about the bottom of the door or this:

..but thought it would have been overkill..