RV Clearance & Marker lights

Why Upgrade to Strands LED RV Marker Lights?

Most RVs come from the factory with standard halogen or incandescent clearance lights. While cheap upfront, they are prone to failure from vibration and weather. Strands LED technology transforms your vehicle’s safety and style profile.

• Vibration Resistant: Unlike glass bulbs with fragile filaments, our solid-state LEDs are built to withstand the constant vibrations of the highway and rough backroads.
• Energy Efficiency: Strands LEDs draw significantly less power from your battery bank compared to traditional lighting. This is critical for RV owners who enjoy boondocking or rely on solar power.
• Superior Visibility: Our optics are designed to cut through rain, fog, and darkness, ensuring your vehicle’s dimensions are clearly defined to other drivers.

Clearance Lights vs. Marker Lights: What You Need to Know

While often used interchangeably, these terms refer to specific functions required for road safety.

• Clearance Lights: These are typically mounted at the top corners (front and rear) of your RV. Their specific job is to indicate the extreme width and height of your vehicle to oncoming traffic and those behind you.
• Marker Lights (Side Markers): These are positioned along the sides of the vehicle. They indicate the overall length of your RV or trailer.
• The Strands Solution: Our product range covers both applications with universal fitments that meet the rigorous demands of heavy-duty transport.

Color Guide: Amber vs. Red Placement

Correct installation is vital for safety and legal compliance on US roads.

• Amber (Yellow): Must be installed on the front and on the sides near the front (forward of the rear axle). This signals oncoming traffic.
• Red: Must be installed on the rear and on the sides at the rear. This marks the end of the vehicle for trailing drivers.
• Dual Function: Many Strands marker lights also feature integrated reflectors, adding an extra layer of safety when the vehicle is parked or powered off.

Installation and Maintenance

Replacing old lights with Strands LED markers is often a straightforward DIY project. Our lights are designed for surface mounting or grommet mounting, covering the standard cutouts found on most US recreational vehicles.

Pro Tip: When upgrading to LED, ensure your connections are watertight. Strands lights feature sealed electronics (IP-rated) to prevent moisture intrusion—the #1 killer of RV lights.

Frequently Asked Questions about RV Marker Lights

Are LED marker lights better than incandescent for RVs?

Yes. LED lights typically last 10-50 times longer than incandescent bulbs. They produce less heat, use less power (saving your RV battery), and are instant-on/instant-off, providing faster signaling to other drivers.

Do I need special wiring to switch to LED marker lights?

Generally, no. LEDs draw less current, so your existing wiring can easily handle the load. However, you should always check that the polarity is correct, as LEDs are polarity-sensitive, unlike incandescent bulbs.

What happens if my marker lights are not working?

Driving without functional clearance or marker lights is illegal and dangerous. It makes your large vehicle “invisible” in the dark, significantly increasing the risk of side-swipe accidents. Strands recommends checking your lights before every trip.

Can I use amber lights on the rear of my RV?

No. Standard convention and regulations dictate that rear-facing lights and side markers at the rear must be red. Using amber on the rear can confuse other drivers, making them think they are looking at the front or side of a vehicle.