Answering the question “which tail lights should I choose for my trailer?” this guide highlights five durable, water-friendly LED trailer lights that fit under 80 inches wide trailers and similar setups. Each option targets specific needs—ease of install, submersible design, DOT compliance, or multi-function capability. This selection is ideal for boat trailers, utility trailers, RVs, and snowmobile trailers. The table below helps compare key strengths at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Partsam 12V Submersible Square LED Trailer Light | Universal trailer lighting, multiple functions | Six-function driver side; includes license plate illumination on the street side |
| CZC AUTO 12V LED Submersible Left & Right Trailer Lights | Under 80″ width trailers needing DOT-compliant LED | Two lights with six core functions each; license plate light on left |
| MAXXHAUL 70205 Trailer Light Kit | Complete kit for quick upgrade | Two lights plus wiring harness and license plate bracket for easy install |
| CZC AUTO 12V Submersible LED Trailer Tail Light Kit | Boat and utility trailers needing submersible reliability | Left and right lights with seven functions and sealed construction |
| Nilight TL-01 6″ Oval LED Tail Lights | Surface-mount, compact trailer lighting | 10 SMD LEDs per light with solid mounting design and easy wiring |
Partsam 12V Submersible Square LED Trailer Light
Best for: trailers under 80″ and multi-vehicle use, including boats and campers. This light offers a curb-side six-function setup that includes stop, turn, tail, rear reflector, side marker, and side reflex reflector. The street side adds license plate illumination, broadening visibility at night.
Why selected: It provides a comprehensive, multi-function option in a compact unit. Submersible design helps with exposure to water and road spray, making it ideal for boat trailers and snowmobile setups.
Caution: Verify compatibility with your vehicle’s wiring and ensure proper sealing around the lens and wire entry to maintain IP68 protection.
CZC AUTO 12V LED Submersible Left and Right Trailer Lights
Best for: under-80″ width towing vehicles needing durable DOT-compliant LEDs. Both left and right lights provide six common functions plus a license plate light on the left unit. They undergo a 100% quality check and use 100% LED diodes for high visibility.
Why selected: The sealed construction with US-lab-tested DOT compliance and sonic welding enhances reliability in marine and utility applications.
Caution: Ensure proper sealing of wires entry and lens edges to preserve waterproof performance after installation.
MAXXHAUL 70205 Trailer Light Kit
Best for: trailers requiring a complete, ready-to-install LED lighting upgrade. This kit includes two 12V LED stop/tail/turn lights, two amber clearance lights, a license plate bracket, and a wiring harness.
Why selected: The 22 ft split Y-style wiring harness simplifies installation, saving time and reducing wiring complexity on longer trailers.
Caution: Kit contents must be compatible with your trailer’s mounting spaces and connector types to ensure a clean, secure fit.
CZC AUTO 12V Submersible LED Trailer Tail Light Kit
Best for: boat trailers and utility trailers needing high visibility with submersible protection. The kit features left and right lights with seven functions, including license plate illumination on the left unit.
Why selected: Sonic Welding Sealing Technology and marine-grade glue seal every gap, delivering robust waterproofing and long life under water exposure.
Caution: Confirm that the kit’s wire harness length fits your trailer’s dimensions to avoid excess wiring or tension.
Nilight TL-01 6″ Oval LED Tail Lights
Best for: compact trailers and surface-mounted applications requiring a simple, robust tail light. Each unit houses 10 SMD LEDs for bright turn and brake signals, with a distinct low-brightness tail mode.
Why selected: The design emphasizes secure surface mounting with grommets and a compact footprint, ideal for space-limited trailer configurations.
Caution: The oval shape may require compatible mounting hardware and cutouts; verify hole size and wiring access before installation.
Buying Guide
What should I check before buying trailer tail lights?
- Wiring and connector compatibility: Ensure the light’s wiring harness matches your trailer’s connector system (12V DC, 4-pin, etc.).
- Waterproofing rating: For water exposure, prioritize IP67–IP68 submersible ratings and sealed housings to resist moisture and corrosion.
- DOT/FMVSS108 compliance: If you operate on public roads, choose lights that meet the appropriate safety standards for legal visibility.
- Light functions: Confirm the required functions (stop, turn, tail, license plate light, side markers, reflectors) and how many lights you’ll need for the trailer’s length.
- Installation footprint: Check mounting size, screw hole spacing, and whether the kit provides brackets, grommets, or wiring harnesses for easier setup.
- Durability in marine environments: For boat trailers, look for corrosion-resistant housings and marine-grade seals to extend life in saltwater or splash zones.
- Upgrade vs. replacement: Decide whether you want a complete kit or individual lights to replace specific units on your trailer.
FAQ
- Q: Are submersible trailer lights legal for all trailers? A: Submersible lights with DOT/FMVSS108 compliance are generally allowed for road use, but verify local regulations for your state.
- Q: Do I need a full kit or individual lights? A: If you’re upgrading an entire trailer, a full kit simplifies wiring and ensures uniform signaling; for repairs, individual lights may suffice.
- Q: How do I know if a light will fit under 80″ trailers? A: Check the product specs for width and mounting footprint; under-80″ trailers are common targets for these models.
- Q: Can I install these lights on boats or off-road trailers? A: Yes, especially submersible models designed for marine exposure and rugged environments.
- Q: What maintenance is recommended? A: Regularly inspect grommets, seals, and wiring for wear; clean lenses to maintain brightness and replace corroded hardware promptly.
- Q: Will LED lights save on power vs. incandescent? A: Yes, LEDs consume less power and typically offer longer service life with brighter signaling.