Building a custom or classic car often includes a mix of time-tested performance and appearance improvements, matched with the latest technology has to offer. An advancement we were excited to see was the introduction of LED (light emitting diode) lighting for cars and trucks. LEDs are nothing new, but the application in automotive use is a natural. Their rugged design enables them to withstand shocks that could easily burn out a traditional bulb. There is little doubt that if you’ve spent any time at all parked in rush hour traffic you have seen your share of LED lights on everything from semi trailers to new Cadillacs, and everything in between.
While known for their durability, their brightness level cannot be ignored. The increased visibility and near instant response that LED technology provides means safety is greatly increased.
Adapting this new technology to vintage street machines also seemed to be a natural progression. The overall size of the taillight on early cars pales in comparison to their late-model counterparts, and much like the center mounted third brake light, other drivers become accustomed to the large glow to warn them of stopping or signaling lane changes.
Recognizing the benefits of LED lighting, Dakota Digital, a pioneer in digital instrumentation, expanded their line of products to include complete LED lighting systems to upgrade classic cars. They have designed each system to take advantage of the optics of the stock taillight lens for maximum brightness and performance. Their complete line of taillight conversions offers more than 70 direct fit applications, covering cars and trucks from 1940 through 1990.
Manufactured right here in the U.S.A., Dakota Digital’s Sioux Falls, SD, manufacturing facility prides themselves on the high quality of their products and backs up their lights with a limited lifetime warranty. We were anxious to test their claims of effortless installation utilizing the original wiring harness, taillight lens, and assembly.
The complete conversion process on our project ’68 Chevelle was straightforward and took less than an hour to complete, but the payoff came big the first time we pressed the brake pedal and lit up the area in a veil of red. “Wow, that’s bright!” could be heard from across the shop the moment we tested our new lights. The added safety makes it worthwhile and never changing a bulb again… well, that’s just a bonus.
108 Responses to “Modern LED Lighting for Classic Cars”
I am very interested in converting my 1960’s Jaguars to LED systems. Do yuou have any idea wgere I might find the proper kits?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Chris K
Although you didn’t mention a specific year and model of your Jaguar, we could find little in the way of a kit designed like the ones available from Dakota Digital. However there are LED replacement bulbs available for most cars. check out the selection available at: http://www.superbrightleds.comwww.superbrightleds.com<http://www.superbrightleds.com>
Wrench Safe, Mark
Try ledlight.com
I’m looking for interior LED for a rod?
Hello Larry, what is the make/model and year?
Looking if u can make LED’s for 72 XA quarter blinkers
Hi I’ve got a 1966 HR Holden I’m wanting to convert front Parker/indicator to led amber and clear do you have anything that I can use cheers Mark
Hello,
I have a 1062 Pontiac Catalina that I would like to upgrade it’s taillights. Do you have a kit for it?
Thanks.
1962 Pontiac Catalina
What do they have for a 1963 Ford Galaxie with large round taillights?
Here is a link to Dakota Digital’s site (http://www.dakotadigital.com/)http://www.dakotadigital.com/
Although a quick review of their site lists no kits available for your specific application. However you may want to consider just replacing your current bulbs with LED bulbs. Available from numerous online sources and many auto parts stores. The benefits of brighter lights, and less maintenance will be the payoff, not to mention much less heat which can be a problem on some cars with small taillight design.
Wrench Safe, Mark
I subscribed to Classic Car Restoration Club to see the videos but I only get a few seconds like the unsubscribers. What do I get for my 50 bucks????????
Hello Roy, thank you for contacting us. We apologize that you are having difficulty viewing the videos. We have tested our videos successfully. In order to view the Premium video content, you need to make sure that you are signed in using your Premium Member username and password.
Please let us know if you continue to have trouble with accessing the video content and we will perform additional troubleshooting with you by contacting us at 1-855-706-3534.
Looking for ideas to replace a ’62 Stude Lark round tail light with LED bulbs, but leaving the original lens. Thanks
Hi Allyn. While I am not aware of any LED panels made specifically for Studebakers, Hands down the easiest way to convert any classic car to LEDs is to purchase LED replacement bulbs.
The entire conversion takes as long as it normally takes to change a bulb.
It is important to remember there is less resistance in the system then, and you will likely need to purchase a Heavy Duty Flasher unit to get the turn signal flashers and emergency flashers to operate correctly. but these are also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
LED bulbs are now common in many auto parts stores, but if you can not find them, here is a link to an online source I have used before: superbrightleds.com
Hi I’m wondering if LED headlights are available for my 1969 mustang? I seem able to find everything except the small round ones for the 4 lamp system
Hi Duane. Yes LED headlights are available in the 5.75-inch size…
Here are a couple links to bulbs that might be just what you’re looking for.
http://www.cjponyparts.com/oracle-lighting-headlight-replacement-led-5-3-4-sealed-beam-pair-1969/p/HLA86/
http://www.cjponyparts.com/redline-lumtronix-headlight-halogen-led-halo-single-color-pair-1969/p/HLA36/
Although I would encourage you to checkout the many options available before making a decision.
An internet search for: 5.75-inch LED Headlights should show you many options.
Because this size is used on motorcycles as well there will be some with both the high and low beam in a single bulb.
you could use a single circuit in both or even relegate the inner headlights on your car to fog lights or accessory lighting.
Looking for both, replacements for 1950 Chevy Sport Coupe (interior and exterior) and replacements for exterior of 2002 Chevy Avalanche. Can Dakota Digital supply both types?
Good morning Michael,
Unfortunately Dakota Digital has not yet developed product for your applications although you may want to replace the bulbs in your rides with LEDs. Check out the many bulb options available at: http://www.superbrightleds.com
Wrench Safe!
Is there any way you guy’s have the tail lights for ford 1962 anglia van
Good morning Kenny,
We’re not aware of a source for LED 1962 Anglia van tail lights, I suppose it possible Dakota Digital may custom make a set? Here is a link to their site: http://www.dakotadigital.com
You should also consider simply replacing the bulbs with LED bulbs. Here is a link to a site that offers them: http://www.superbrightleds.com
I wish you the best of luck with your project.
Wrench Safe!
I have a 55 Belair. Using AAW upgrade 18 ckt fuse panel. It already has a flasher relay installed. I want to upgrade both my tail lights and front turn signals to LED panels….not bulbs. Tail lights to have running, stop and turn signal. I have done some research as to what else I need to do to have a successful install. I hear use flasher relay upgrade, add additional “cube” relays in addition to the the one one the fuse panel, add load resistors. Others do absolutely nothing. I am totally confused as to what Really works for both rear and front turn signals. I am not creative when it comes to electrical but I can follow instructions once I know I they are correct for my application. Tom
I have replaced the brake/turn signal – running lights in my 40 Ford Pick-up with LEDs. When changing a dual filament bulb with an LED “block”, it is necessary to wire in a resistor and diode in the running light circuit and a load resistor (“dummy load”) in the Brake/turn signal circuit. Easy DIY and it looks bright and beautiful. I just couldn’t get the LED flasher upgrade to work.
looking for a complete set front and back for a 1972 olds cutlass
No pictures is quite irritating !
Hello Carl,
We appreciate your feedback and it has been forwarded to the proper department. Your comments are important to us and help with the development of new programs and offers. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Thanks,
Becky CCRC Video Membershp
Looking for some LED replacement brake lights for my 1972 Dodge Charger SE. I believe it uses 1157 lights. there are six total bulbs in the back. two brakes on each side and one backup on each side. Thanks
I have a 67 barracuda and would like to convert to led
Do you have a lot to replace all the lights on a 1973 Ford Gran Torino sport?
Hello Robert,
Dakota Digital does not make a kit for your car, however you’re not left out from making a cost effective LED conversion. Consider the bulb choices at: http://www.superbrightleds.com
Hope this helps,
Mark CCRC Video Membership
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Restomod 1968 GTO Convertible
I wish to convert my 1948 citroen light 15 to led guts .I wish to put external rear cluster lights on rear bumper for indicator and brake lights I’m looking for a small cluster period lights can you suggest anything
Hello Mike,
The 1948 Citroen light 15 is a great looking car! I would look closely at the LED replacement bulbs offered by Super Bright LED’s here is a link to their site: http://www.superbrightleds.com
Thanks,
Mark CCRC Video Membership
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Need round led for 1971 Chevelle SS?
do they they have to be made for a certian car or can they be cut and paste so to speak thanks gary
Hello Gary,
The LED lights from Dakota Digital are specifically made for each year make and model.
To learn if they have them for your ride, visit them at http://www.dakotadigital.com
Thanks,
Mark CCRC Video Membership
I’m trying to figure out the best way to go as far as finding colored LED headlights for my 1967 Oldsmobile F85. Any suggestions? Thanks for your time.
Hello Kevan,
Your F85 uses 5 3/4″ round headlight bulbs. The white color of the main bulb is regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Several manufacturers offer bulbs that have an outer ring of color adjustable LEDs around them.
They can be easily located on online auction sites like eBay. Search for “5 3/4 LED Headlights”
It is possible there are non-DOT approved headlights on the market, but I wouldn’t suggest using any of them.
Wrench Safe,
Mark CCRC Video Membership
We’d love to have you be a part of our community. We are convinced you will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member and having access to the best instructional how to videos and professional tips. We would like to offer you a special promotion for your first year membership.
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I like this new LED option. I look forward to installing it in my restoration of my 1966 GTO
NEED LED REPLACEMENT BULBS FOR 6 VOLT 1941 PACKARD TAILLIGHTS AND REAR TURN SIGNALS
I am building a custom 1966 Ford Fairlane. I got the idea of an LED tail light halo while following a car with similar “squarish” tail light halos that were square. The 1966 Fairlane housing lends itself to this same application. There is a flat surface ~3/8″ around the tail light lens. This could be a great option for these classic cars. How much would a set of the cost to fabricate.
I have a 1965 Thunderbird I need a lid kit?
Is their any way i could use led lights on my 6 volt 51 mercury tailights to brighten them up, and still have brake , and turn signals also, thanks, mike
Hello Mike,
You could consider using 6-volt LED bulbs.
Here is one source:
https://www.superbrightleds.com/cat/tail-brake-turn/filter/Volts_Typical,6,100,4204:Base_Type,1156,1,40:Base_Type,1157,1,41:
Thanks,
Mark
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
We’d love to have you be a part of our community. We are convinced you will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member and having access to the best instructional how to videos and professional tips. We would like to offer you a special promotion for your first-year membership.
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Need led lights for a 1957 Buick Century Coupe and a 1964 Lesabre Estate Wagon with cornering lights. Any chance?
Thanks
J
1968 chevelle ss 396 ,both head lite and tail lites led
I want to convert my 1967 Cougar dash lights to LED?
I own a 1953 Chevy Belair. Searching for LED bulbs for the front park/turn signals.
Dear Sir(s):
I recently discovered your website and the LED options provided for classic automobiles to improve their visibility. Could I get some information regarding what products you offer for Mopar products, namely my 1971 Dodge Dart Demon with factory Hurst package. I am interested in upgrading the interior dash lights, interior cabin lights, the outdoor headlights, tail lights, brake lights and marker lights with LED equivalents.
Thank you in advance for any assistance and information you may be able to provide.
Best Regards,
Mark
Do you offer a light set up for a 51 Plymouth Cranbrook?
Any le headlights for Ford Model A?
I have a 1957 Ford ranch wagon and late 2015, I purchased a round (4 7/8″)LED panel with many ‘bulbs’ that lights up the entire tail light lens. It plugs into the stock receptacle in the tail light.
Unfortunately, the panel no longer works and I can not find the receipt for the purchase. So my question is…do you have a product that would replace this unit? Do have any suggestions where I might check for a replacement?
Thank you in advance for your reply…
Looking to modernize my 72 Chevy Nova coupe. Inside and outside lighting.
1971 Oldsmobile 442. We put in green halo lights, but night vision not good. Suggestions? My son likes the halo lights, but these are dangerous.
Need rear LED tailights for my 1972 Chevy C10 4×4 do you offer them?
I am very interested in converting my 1959 Chevrolet Impala Sedan to LED systems. Would have any idea where I might find the proper kits? Thank you in advance for your assistance. Joe Oliveira
Hello Joe,
If you’re only interested in replacing the bulbs, visit: http://www.superbrightleds.com
Otherwise Dakota Digital also make a LED taillight panel replacement that will give you maximum brightness. http://www.dakotadigital.com
Hope this helps,
Mark
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
thanks….
I have a 1955 Chev Bel Aire and a 1979 MG Midget that I would love to convert to LED, do you have kits or information on those conversions
Led lights
I have a 1969 Dodge Dart custom. Id like to use led for head tail and turn signal lights. head lights are 7 inch round. what do you have for my car?
Dear Joe,
I’m sorry but we do not sell any parts we are a online streaming membership.
Sincerely,
Joan
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
WOULD YOU HAVE ANYTHING FOR A 1970 AMC JAVELIN
Hello Michael,
I’m sorry but we do not sell parts.
Sincerely,
Joan
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
I own a positive-ground British 1963 Rover P5 3 Litre, LHD. Do you make headlights as well as exterior lights for this make of car?
Thanks. Walter.
Dear Walter,
Thank you for contacting us. Here is their contact information: http://www.dakotadigital.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=page/page_cd=contact/contact.htm
Sincerely,
Joan
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
need some info for my 1964 gto tail lights
Dear Vincent,
Thank you for contacting us.
Here is their web address: http://www.dakotadigital.com
Sincerely,
Joan
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
Do you have it for a 1968 ford torino
Dear Maurice,
Thank you for contacting us.
Here is their web address: http://www.dakotadigital.com
Sincerely,
Joan
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
What can you do for an tail light 66 Thunderbird, custom build project
I want to convert all my headlights and rear tail lights to led bulbs system for my 67 dodge coronet R/T. THANK YOU
I want to convert my 1948 Nash lights to LED’s. It is running an 8 volt battery with a little over 9 volts charging. It uses reverse polarity, Positive ground.
I read an article last week on new LED headlights for older hot rods. They also had an outer ring of LED lights that could be programmed with a remote to display 17 different colors. The remote comes with the bulbs and the outer ring simply wires into the parking light circuit.
Do you know who makes these bulbs? I have a 37 Ford pickup truck and I have the original fender mounted headlights.
Lynn
Hi Lynn,
Thank you for your patience while I checked with the experts, here is the reply:
I am not aware of a unit that will directly fit the diameter of the ’37 Ford pickup headlight.
although street rodders have adapted older headlight housings fo years to accept the more standard 7″ round headlight bulbs.
Here is a link that may help: https://www.streetrodhq.com/
Wrench Safe,
Mark
Classic Car Restoration Club
Am looking for LED replacements for headlights and tail/brake lights for Dodge Trucks 1990-1993 (D-series). Does anyone make these?
Thanks for anyhting you can find?
Regards,
RJ
Hello Richard,
Thank you for contacting us. There are some fabricators out there doing this, here is one I found from the internet:
https://www.osram.com/am/light-for/led-lighting/index.jsp
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3534, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Joan
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
I really liked the article, illustrative
I have a 1973 Chevy Monte Carlo. need front and rear leds
Hi Do you have replacement 5-3/4 headlight units suitable for C2 and 3 Corvettes please?
Hello Graham,
This is for members to our online community. We do have a $3.00 annual entrance offer if you are interested? This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Below is the link to join if you are interested: https://go.ClassicCarRestorationClub.com/C30004
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
I need rear lights for my 6 volt 1941 Packard 180, who do I called to see if they have them
Hello Bill,
Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:
Packards of that era are rare cars and I doubt any manufacturers will gear up for such a small production run…
With that said you can replace the bulbs with bright 6-volt LED bulbs.
Here is one good source: https://www.ledlight.com/6-volt-negative-ground-automotive-led-lights.aspx
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
Want to convert my 1966 impala rear lights to led
can one use those led strips they sell for the interior & underbody for brakelights?
Hello,
This is for members to our online community. We do have a $3.00 annual entrance offer if you are interested? This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Below is the link to join if you are interested: https://go.ClassicCarRestorationClub.com/C30004
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
What do you have for a 1940 Ford?
Hello Mike,
This is for members to our online community. We do have a $3.00 annual entrance offer if you are interested? This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Below is the link to join if you are interested: https://go.ClassicCarRestorationClub.com/C30004
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
1966 Dodge Charger tail lights and a 74 Dodge Challenger – would you have something for these cars?
Hello Blaine,
This is for members to our online community. We do have a $3.00 annual entrance offer if you are interested? This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Below is the link to join if you are interested: https://go.ClassicCarRestorationClub.com/C30004
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
Do these LEDs work with 6 volt ??
Hello Timothy,
Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:
No these particular lights do not work with 6-volt, but they do offer 6-volt LED bulb replacements.
Here’s one source: https://www.ledlight.com/6-volt-negative-ground-automotive-led-lights.aspx
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
I am interested in receiving information to get these for a 1978 Malibu.
Hello Eddie,
Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:
Unfortunately we’re not aware of a manufacturer that is building them for a 1978 Malibu… yet.
Hopefully in the near future the aftermarket responds to the need.
There are LED replacement bulbs available for your car.
Here’s one source we’ve been very happy with: https://www.superbrightleds.com/
Please let us know if you have any further questions
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
I upgraded my headlights snd taillights with United Pacific LEDs. Great products and very easy to do!
Is or possible to fit led’s headlight and all light for my Dodge 1939 6 volts system
Hello Giroux,
Thank you for contacting us.
Yes, 6-volt LED headlight bulbs are available in both sealed beam and inset bulbs. Here’s one source: https://www.ledlight.com/6-volt-positive-ground-automotive-led-lights.aspx
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3534, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
Hi, looking to convert the rear lights on my ’85 Ford Crown Vic Wagon to Led. can you help? Thanks, Mark.
Hello Mark,
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hours of Premium video content.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the special offer below:
https://go.classiccarrestorationclub.com/a19769
Thanks!
I have a 1957 Lincoln Premier
I would like to run an amber light combined with my back up light inside the same Lens cover for my indicator but still keep the white light in the middle for back up
Hello Ritchie,
Thank you for contacting us. Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and access to all Premium video content.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the special offer below: $3.00
https://go.classiccarrestorationclub.com/C33696
If you have any further questions, please chat, email, or call Customer Service.
Sincerely,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration ClubVideo Membership
light for a 1967 old cutlass price
Hello Yaphet,
We do not sell that physical product on our site. However, there are LED replacement bulbs available for most cars. check out the selection available at: http://www.superbrightleds.comwww.superbrightleds.com
Thank you for contacting us,
Sarah
Classic Car Restoration Club Video Membership
I’m in need of a new tail light solution for my 1967 Buick Riviera. The current old wiring harness won’t stay grounded and the tail lights stop working. Does Dakota Digital have a kit for my car?
LOOKING TO CONVERT MY 1967 PLYMOUTH SATTELITE TO LED PARK LIGHTS AND LED HEAD LIGHTS ANY IDEA WHERE I CAN GET A KIT?
Hello Mike, Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the offer below:
https://go.ClassicCarRestorationClub.com/C37317 Thanks!
Hi guys. I’ve a 1960 S2 Bentley with poor rear lights. What would I need to improve their brightness and how much would it cost.
Regards John
Hello John,
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the offer below:
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