Christmas time is an amazing and magical time of the year. Decorations make the magic truly come alive but do not be dismayed into thinking lights are merely for your home. They can actually be applied to your vehicle as a way. Christmas lights parades are becoming more popular and various uses for Christmas lights on your car can make the time of year more festive, so why not install your very own vehicle Christmas lights?
How to Put Christmas Lights on a Car
Placing Christmas lights on your car is easier than you might think thanks to auxiliary power sources found throughout the vehicle. Generally, even small cars have at least one auxiliary power source located at the front of the vehicle. For larger cars, SUVs, and vans, there are a variety of power outlets to choose from. Some are located inside or at the rear of the console and others may be located in the cargo area of the vehicle. Choose the outlet that is most convenient for the chosen location of your Christmas lights.
As for equipment, you might need to purchase a power inverter that changes the cigarette-style outlet into a standard home outlet. There are some Christmas lights designed to connect directly to the car’s power source, but if you do not have access to those, you can use standard lights by installing the power inverter.
Choose the right Christmas lights for your car. Requirements will be different for decorating the outside vs. the inside of the vehicle.
1. How to Put Christmas Lights Inside Your Car
Decorating the inside of your car with Christmas lights is relatively easy. You can use any type of light that fits the power inverter or the car’s power source. As the lights are inside the vehicle, you do not need to contend with outside elements, so most Christmas lights will work. Attaching the lights inside your vehicle can be a little difficult, but fabric fastener strips can work best.
Attach the strips to plastic or non-fabric areas of the inside of the vehicle. This will ensure you do not damage any fabric or leather interior components. Secure lights to fasteners, but make certain they do not obstruct your view throughout the vehicle. It is best to attach lights at the base of or around windows to keep sight lines as clear as possible.
2. How to Put Christmas Lights Outside Your Car
As for placing Christmas lights on the outside of your vehicle, attach the lights to the power source of your vehicle and then run the lights out the closest window to the power source. Again, try to place the lights in an area that is not going to obstruct your view and the lights should be placed at the hinge side of the door, so they are not pulled when the door is opened. Let your window down and pull it up to allow the lights to fit snuggly while leaving a little wiggle room for when the door is opened.
It is popular to trace the elegant lines of the vehicle with rope lights. As the rope lights meander along the body of the car, they create a captivating picture. Use adhesive clips or tape to secure the rope lights, Make sure they don’t block any car windows. The multi-color or warm white glow will transform your car into the most unique one on the street.
If you want an ultimate Christmas car that is super eye-catching and whimsical, you can cover the entire exterior of your car with fairy lights, avoiding windows, of course. Bend the lights following the contours of the vehicle. Use adhesive tapes or double-side adhesive tapes that are specifically designed for cars to fix the strings. Finally, connect them to the power source. Now you have a shimmering and enchanting spectacle!
3. How to Put Christmas Lights on Car Roof Rack
It is also a good idea to put Christmas lights on the car roof rack. Attach the lights to your roof rack with plastic clips or zip ties to hold them securely. Maintaining a secure hold will be essential as the lights will face the brunt of wind resistance while traveling down the road. You do not want to see your beautiful Christmas lights trailing behind your car while traveling along the freeway. Clean areas where you intend on adding lights for best results. The cleaner the car is, the more secure lights can be attached.
Things That You Need to Pay Attention to
After learning how to put Christmas lights on a car, we want to tell you something that you cannot neglect about that.
Voltage Regulations
This is a big thing to keep in mind. Most car outlets run off a 12V capacity. When decorating with Christmas lights designed for your vehicle, this is not an issue as you can plug them directly into the car’s existing power source. However, should you desire to use standard home Christmas lights, things are a little more difficult. Keep in mind you are contending with lights that are designed for a 110V AC current.
A converter can help you manage this current efficiently, but remember, there is only a certain amount of electricity coming from the converter. Make sure not to overload the outlet. Even though there may be 2 outlets attached to the converter, it is not a good idea to use both at the same time.
Legalities of Christmas Lights for Your Car
No one wants to end up with legal trouble, especially around Christmas. However, the lights can pose a problem in specific areas. Although there are currently no nationally mandated laws regarding car Christmas lights, certain areas prohibit their use. Even these areas, sometimes relax the laws of interior and exterior lighting for vehicles during Christmas, but not all. Make sure you know the laws surrounding Christmas lights for vehicles in your area.
Most of the time, the issue will not arise, but it is important to understand that it can. When decorating your car in Christmas lights, keep sight lines open. Obstruction of windows or mirrors can be a significant safety hazard. If you have any question regarding the legality of vehicle Christmas lights in your area, it is best to contact your local authorities and ask. It is much better to be informed than to end up with a fine for not following local protocols.
Conclusion
Christmas time is a time of celebration and enjoyment. Decorating your car with Christmas lights is just another way to enjoy the season. However, precautions should be taken. You never want to wire the lights directly into your car’s systems accept through the appropriate outlets. Bypassing a power converter or the existing power outlet for your car can quickly cause a catastrophic electrical issue that can cost hundreds, or even thousands to address at your local mechanic. Keep it fun and keep things safe when installing Christmas lights on your car, truck, van, or SUV. Obey all local laws and spread a little Christmas spirit around while you drive.
