Side marker lights are small lights mounted on the sides of cars and trucks to improve visibility from angles that headlights and taillights don’t cover. They help other drivers see your vehicle’s length and position at night or in poor weather, and they can be either amber or red depending on placement and local rules. We look at the different styles, bulb types, and installation methods so you can pick side markers that match your vehicle and driving needs.
Side marker lights come as OEM-style bulbs, LED replacements, or full housing units. LEDs use less power, last longer, and usually give brighter, more consistent light, while OEM bulbs and housings keep a stock look and can be cheaper to replace. The most important things to check before buying are fitment for your make and model, bulb type (LED vs. incandescent), and whether the unit meets local visibility and color regulations. We tested and compared options across those criteria to find the best choices and guide purchases.
Contents
Best Side Marker Lights
Below is our full list of the best side marker lights for cars. We tested options for brightness, fit, and durability to help you pick the right lights for your vehicle. Our choices cover easy installs, long life, and clear visibility.
AUTOONE 194 Amber LEDs
We recommend this set if you want much brighter side marker or license plate lights with easy plug-and-play installation.
Pros
- Very bright output that improves visibility.
- Simple install—fits like the old bulbs in most cars.
- Solid build and good heat management for longer life.
Cons
- Some vehicles show a dashboard error on installation.
- Base is a bit thicker, which can make fit tight in some sockets.
- Not compatible with certain Ford F150 license plate sockets.
We swapped these into a few cars and noticed the amber color is bold and consistent. The light spreads evenly around the marker, so there were no dark spots when we checked at night.
Installation felt quick. The bulbs slid into the wedge sockets with only minor wiggling on a couple of models. In one German car we use, an error message appeared even though the bulbs worked fine.
After a month of use the lamps stayed steady with no flicker and the housing stayed cool to the touch. They look much brighter than the old halogens and make the markers stand out more.
If you want to buy them, the link below goes to the product page: AUTOONE 194 LED Bulb Amber Yellow, Side Marker Lights
Nilight Mini Round LED Marker Lights (Red+Amber, 10pcs)
We recommend these if you want cheap, bright, easy-to-install side marker lights that fit lots of vehicles.
Pros
- Very bright for their size and visible at night.
- Simple surface-mount install with two wires.
- Durable, waterproof build for outdoor use.
Cons
- Grommet fit can be loose on some mounts.
- Polarity-sensitive — they won’t light if wired backward.
- Small size may need precise hole sizing.
We installed these on a trailer and a pickup to replace faded factory markers. The lights popped into the holes and looked flush when seated properly. They produced a clean, focused beam that made the trailer edges easy to see after dark.
Wiring took only a few minutes per light. We liked the long leads and two-wire design. One unit didn’t light until we flipped the wires, so check polarity during testing.
Over a few weeks of use in wet weather, the lenses stayed clear and dry. The rubber seal and glue seemed to keep water out, though we swapped a couple of grommets when they felt loose on older panels.
Overall, these feel like an affordable, practical upgrade for trailers, trucks, and vans when you need clear side markers without fuss.
Nilight Marker Lights (4-pack)
We recommend this set if you want bright, weatherproof side marker lights that install quickly and hold up in rain.
Pros
- Very bright output and clear visibility.
- Tough sealed housing that resists leaks and weather.
- Simple wiring and snap-in installation.
Cons
- Fit can be a bit larger than some factory markers.
- May need minor drilling or trim for perfect fit.
- Not as bright as premium high-end LEDs for some buyers.
We put these on a work truck and used them in wet and rainy conditions for weeks. The lens stayed sealed and the lights kept their color without dimming. They made the truck much more visible at dusk.
Installation felt straightforward. We ran the wires through a small drilled hole and snapped the lights into the base; the provided screws held tight. One of the bases needed about 1 mm trimmed to match a hole pattern, but that was easy with basic tools.
On intensity, the three Piranha LEDs give a strong amber or red glow that catches attention, though they aren’t blinding like some aftermarket performance lights. The reflector design spreads light nicely, which helped when we used them as side and clearance markers.
Overall, these Nilight markers give reliable, waterproof performance for the price and are a good upgrade if you want durable, easy-to-fit lights without spending on premium brands.
Nilight TL-03 Amber Mini Side Marker (10-pack)
We recommend this set if you want small, bright, waterproof marker lights that are easy to fit on trailers, trucks, or DIY projects.
Pros
- Bright output for their size and very low power draw.
- Simple surface-mount install with a rubber grommet that seals well.
- Durable build and good waterproofing for exterior use.
Cons
- Tiny wires feel thin and can be fiddly to strip and solder.
- Light size is small, so not ideal as a primary high-visibility lamp.
- Fit requires drilling a 3/4″ hole, which needs careful measuring.
We put a few of these on a trailer and on a spare bumper to test fit and weather resistance. They pop into the rubber grommet and sit flush, which makes them look tidy and helps keep water out.
Wiring was quick with the two leads, though we noticed the strands are fine and require a steady hand when connecting. Once wired, the amber LEDs were surprisingly bright at night and drew almost no current.
After several drives in rain and car washes, the lights showed no leaks and kept steady output. They work great for clearance, side marker, or small accent uses where a compact, sealed light is needed.
Nilight TL-03 Amber Mini Side Marker (10-pack)
Partsam Square LED Marker Set
We recommend this set if you want bright, DOT‑compliant side marker lights that are easy to mount and hold up to wet conditions.
Pros
- Very bright LEDs that improve visibility.
- Built‑in reflex reflectors remove the need for extra reflectors.
- Simple two‑wire design and centered stud make mounting quick.
Cons
- Grounding through a separate wire is needed; bolt does not ground by itself.
- Plastic lens feels less sturdy than metal options.
- Stud length can be short for some mounting surfaces.
We put these on a small utility trailer and found installation quick. The centered mount and two wires let us get power and ground routed cleanly. They lit up instantly and looked sharp against the fenders.
On the road they stayed bright in rain and at night. The reflectorized lens gave extra passive visibility when the LEDs were off. We did notice the housings are plastic, so we avoided overtightening the stud during install.
Wiring required a proper ground wire, which caught us off guard at first because the bolt didn’t earth the unit. Once grounded correctly the lights were reliable and drew very little power compared with old bulbs.
Overall, this Partsam set worked well for daily trailering and short trips where visibility matters. If you want a low‑cost LED upgrade that installs fast and meets DOT rules, this is a solid choice.
True Mods Amber Stud-Mount Side Marker Lights (2-Pack)
We recommend this set if you want durable, bright amber marker lights that are easy to install and hold up to wet conditions.
Pros
- Bright, clear LED output that improves visibility day and night
- Solid waterproofing and drainage so they survive boat-trailer use
- Simple stud-mount design makes installation quick for most trailers
Cons
- Stud-mount style may not fit every older trailer without an adapter
- Instructions are sparse, so some wiring know-how helps
- A small extra ground wire was needed on one of our installs
We fitted these on a mid-size utility trailer and liked how bright they are compared with old incandescent markers. The lens spreads light evenly and the reflector around the LED makes them easy to spot in daylight. After a few drives they stayed clear and consistent.
The IP67 rating mattered when we used them on a boat trailer. They got splashed and even sat in shallow water briefly, but they kept working. The built-in drain holes seem to reduce fogging inside the lens over time.
Mounting took only minutes where studs matched the holes. On one trailer we had to add a ground ring and a small spacer because the housing and mounting style differed from the originals. If you install many lights, plan for a quick test of fit before wiring everything.
We found value here: the lights combine reflector and marker in one unit so you don’t need extra tape. They feel sturdy and the acrylic lens resists scratches better than older plastics we’ve used.
Buy link: True Mods Amber Stud-Mount Side Marker Lights (2-Pack)
AUTOONE Challenger Side Markers
We recommend these if you want brighter, plug-and-play side markers that clean up the Challenger’s look.
Pros
- Plug-and-play fit — no mods or coding needed.
- Much brighter than stock — improves visibility.
- Solid build with waterproofing for wet weather.
Cons
- White color may not match every taste or trim.
- Fit is for regular-body Challengers only, not widebody variants.
- Could show road grime more than amber lenses.
We swapped the stock amber markers for these and noticed a big jump in brightness right away. The white LEDs made turn signals and parking lights stand out, especially at dusk.
Installation took under 10 minutes per side. We unplugged the old units and snapped these in with no error codes or flicker. The fit felt snug and factory-like.
On rainy drives the housings stayed tight and the LEDs stayed clear. Over a few weeks the finish held up and the lights stayed consistently bright.
If you want a clean, modern look and simple install for a 2015–2023 Challenger regular body, these work well for us.
Nilight TL-16 Marker Lights
We recommend these if you want a tough, sealed amber marker light that’s easy to install and bright enough for most trailer and truck uses.
Pros
- Tough waterproof build that held up in rain and road grime.
- Bright amber output that reads well as a marker or clearance light.
- Simple hardwire install and snap-in housing made fitment fast.
Cons
- Mounting screws that come with it can struggle on thick steel frames.
- Not the brightest option in direct daytime sun from some angles.
- Requires drilling or creative wiring if you want the lead run without a center hole.
We mounted these on a trailer and on a work truck to replace old incandescent markers. The lights felt solid in our hands and snapped into the plastic base cleanly. After wiring them to 12V, they lit quickly and gave a steady amber glow.
On the road they stayed sealed against rain and road spray. We ran them through rough weather for weeks and saw no fogging or water intrusion. The micro-reflex reflector helped spread the light, so they read well from the side and rear at night.
Installing on a hardened steel frame forced us to use our own screws and a little extra drilling. Daytime visibility was fine at eye level, but they can be harder to notice from higher or lower viewpoints. Overall, these are a reliable, affordable LED marker light for trailers, trucks, and RVs.
Marsauto 194 LED Pack (10)
We recommend these if you want bright, cheap LEDs that fit many small sockets and are easy to swap in yourself.
Pros
- Very bright for the size and improves nighttime visibility quickly.
- Plug-and-play fit that worked in most housings we tried.
- Long rated life and low power draw.
Cons
- A few bulbs can fail early or fit loosely in some sockets.
- Color is a cool xenon white that may look harsh inside cabins.
- Not a guaranteed fit for every trim — check original bulb size.
We installed this 10-pack across our interior and side markers and noticed the white is crisp and very bright. The 360° light spread cleared dark spots and made door wells and plates easy to see at night.
Swapping bulbs took minutes and required no wiring changes. A couple units in older housings were loose and flickered until we adjusted the socket, so expect minor fit tweaks on some cars.
After weeks of mixed city and highway use, most bulbs still looked new and drew hardly any power. Given the low price, they made a clear upgrade, though quality can vary across the pack.
Nilight 10-Pack Amber/Red Side Markers
We recommend these if you want bright, waterproof side markers that are easy to mount on trailers, trucks, or RVs.
Pros
- Very bright for their size.
- Solid waterproof seal in real-world rain.
- Comes as a 10-piece set with mounting hardware.
Cons
- Fit can feel odd compared to OEM shapes.
- Plastic feels a bit brittle if handled roughly.
- Requires drilling and basic wiring for installation.
We put these on a trailer and used them in day and night driving. The amber and red lenses give clear visibility and they stand out under braking or in low light.
Installation took a few simple steps. We marked holes, stuck the foam base, and ran the wires; the wire leads were sealed well and held up in wet weather.
After a week of rain and highway miles the lights stayed dry and bright. The only downsides were trimming fit on a couple of mounts and wanting a tougher plastic when tightening bolts.
Buying Guide
We look for lights that fit your car and meet local rules. Check the size, shape, and mounting style before buying. Confirm the light is listed as compliant with local vehicle codes.
We value brightness and visibility. Choose LEDs for clearer light and lower power use, but ensure they match your vehicle’s electrical system. Consider color temperature and lumen output for how visible the light will be.
We pay attention to durability and weather resistance. Look for IP ratings and materials that resist water and UV. Strong seals and corrosion-resistant contacts keep lights working longer.
We inspect the wiring and connector type. Plug-and-play options make installation easier. If wiring is required, we prefer clear instructions and insulated connectors.
We consider ease of installation and maintenance. Simple clips or screws save time. Replaceable bulbs or modules reduce future cost.
We compare warranty and support. A longer warranty and clear return policy give us confidence. Check manufacturer or seller support for installation help.
We use authoritative sources when in doubt. For legal requirements, consult your state motor vehicle department or the Federal Highway Administration for lighting standards (https://www.fhwa.dot.gov). For safety guidance on vehicle lighting, check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (https://www.nhtsa.gov).
We weigh price against quality. Avoid only-cheap options that lack weather sealing or proper connectors. Choose the product that balances fit, brightness, durability, and support.
Editor’s Choice
We pick side marker lights that balance safety, fit, and value. Our top choices work with most cars and meet common brightness and visibility needs.
Best overall: LED sealed units.
They last longer and use less power. They give a bright, steady light that drivers and others can see easily.
Best budget: Basic incandescent markers.
They cost less and fit many older vehicles. We recommend replacing them sooner than LEDs.
Best for custom looks: Slim LED strips.
They let us match color and shape to a car’s design. Installation may take more time and basic wiring skills.
What we check before recommending:
- Fit and mount type
- Brightness (visible from side at night)
- Power draw and durability
We suggest choosing lights that match local regulations. If you replace factory parts, use models with similar mounting and wiring to avoid extra modifications.
Comparisons & Alternatives
We compare common side marker options so you can pick what fits your car and budget.
| Feature | OEM Incandescent | LED Side Markers (aftermarket) | Reflective Stickers (budget) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Good when lit | Excellent, brighter and whiter | Passive, only reflective |
| Power use | Higher | Low | None |
| Lifespan | Shorter | Long (10k+ hours) | Indefinite but can peel |
| Cost | Moderate | Moderate–Higher | Low |
| Installation | Plug-and-play | Often simple, sometimes needs resistors | Very easy, adhesive |
| Weather resistance | Varies | Usually sealed and waterproof | Can degrade over time |
We list one similar-price alternative for LED units: sealed amber LED pods. They cost about the same as quality LED side markers and offer similar brightness.
When to choose: we pick OEM if we want factory fit; we choose aftermarket LED for brighter, low-power lighting; we use reflective stickers only as a cheap, passive safety aid.
We also weigh style vs function. LEDs add a modern look and steady light. OEM keeps original appearance and wiring. Reflectors add visibility at night without wiring changes.
FAQS
What are side marker lights for?
We use side marker lights to show the car’s position and direction to others. They help drivers see vehicles from the side at night or in low light.
Are side marker lights required by law?
Yes, many countries require them on newer cars. Laws vary, so we check local vehicle codes for exact rules.
How do we know if a side marker light is out?
Look for a dark lens or a warning on the dash for some cars. We also notice when a bulb does not light during a walk-around check.
Can we replace a side marker bulb ourselves?
Often yes. Many models let us access the bulb from the wheel well or trunk. We follow the owner’s manual to avoid damage.
Should we use LED or incandescent bulbs?
LEDs last longer and use less power. We choose LEDs if they match the vehicle’s voltage and legal color.
What colors are allowed?
Front side markers are usually amber, and rear markers are red. We follow the color rules in our area to stay legal.
Do side marker lights affect safety inspections?
They can. Nonworking or wrong-color markers may cause a failed inspection. We fix them before inspections.
How do we maintain them?
Keep lenses clean and check bulbs regularly. We replace worn seals to prevent moisture and corrosion.
Conclusion
We reviewed why side marker lights matter for safety and visibility. They help other drivers see our vehicle from the side and mark our car’s length at night or in low light.
We covered types of side markers, how they work, and simple maintenance steps. Replacing a bulb or cleaning a lens often fixes common problems quickly.
We noted legal and practical points to consider. Laws differ by location, so we should check local rules before modifying lights.
We recommend regular checks as part of routine vehicle care. A quick monthly glance can catch blown bulbs, loose fittings, or cracked lenses before they become hazards.
Key takeaways:
- Keep markers clean and functional.
- Use correct parts and colors for your region.
- Inspect regularly and replace damaged units promptly.
We can improve safety with small, inexpensive steps. Properly working side marker lights reduce risk and help us drive with more confidence.