How Much Amperage Is Required to Add Reverse Lights to Trailer

Updated 06/13/2022 | Published 06/10/2022

Products Featured in This Question

LED Backup Light for Truck or Trailer - Submersible - 10 Diodes - Oval - Clear Lens - Qty 1

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Right Angle 2-Wire Pigtail for Optronics Backup and Utility Trailer Lights - 2-Prong PL-3 Plug

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PVC Grommet for 6-1/2" Oval Trailer Tail Lights

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Question:

I want to add backup lights to my RV trailer. I want them to be powered by my tow vehicle. What is the max wattage I can use without over stressing the tow-vehicle circuit

asked by: David T

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the tow vehicle has a trailer reverse light circuit separate for trailer wiring then you'd be limited by the amperage rating of the fuse that protects it. If you are tapping into the reverse light circuit of your vehicle for the light then it comes down to the amperage rating of the fuse that protects the circuit as well as the amperage rating of the lights and how many amps are left over between those two numbers.

Now with that all said if you went with an LED reverse light like the # BUL10CB that you referenced you are going to easily have the amperage required since LED lights draw such a small amount. For example this light only draws .26 amps and is very bright. So to mount the light you'd want the grommet # A70GB and the plug in connector part # A49PB.

expert reply by: Jameson C