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Dodge Ram 2009-Present: How to Replace Courtesy Tow Mirror Lights with LEDs

If the courtesy lights on your Dodge Ram's side tow mirrors look dim or have gone out completely, it's time to replace them with these simple steps.

By Gabriella Massari - July 1, 2015
Contributors: BULLRAM

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 1500 (2009-present).

Like many lights on a truck, the courtesy lights in the side tow mirrors will burn out over time or weaken in appearance. Of course, this repair isn't covered under warranty, but fortunately this DIY job is a simple and inexpensive one. Keep reading to learn how to replace these lights with new LEDs, which typically last around 30,000 hours, so you won't have to worry about them for a long time after.

Materials Needed

  • Voltmeter
  • 12 volt pre-wired LEDs (3mm, 4mm, or 5mm)
  • Small screwdriver
  • Drill with small drill bit
  • Soldering tool
  • Silicone adhesive
  • Car keys

Step 1 – Test the voltage

It's most likely that you simply need to replace the LED bulbs in the module, not the entire tow mirror assembly. To rule out a bigger issue that would require a new assembly, follow these steps:

  1. Using a small screwdriver, pop off the light lens under the assembly.
  2. Unclip the two wires inside the assembly and connect them to the voltmeter.
  3. Put your voltmeter on DC.
  4. Press the "unlock" button on your key fob.

You should see 12 volts appear until the relay shuts off. If you don't see anything, there might be another problem with the tow light assembly, and it's recommended to take it to a repair shop or your dealership if under warranty. If you see more than 12 volts, you need new LEDs. Continue on to Step 2 to learn how to replace them.

Figure 1. Testing with a voltmeter; if it reads more than 12 volts, the LEDs in the module need to be replaced.

Step 2 – Drill out old lights

Using a small drill bit at an angle, drill out the old lights on the lens, pushing them through.

Figure 2. Drill out the old lights.

Step 3 – Insert new lights and re-attach lens

Insert the new LEDs into the holes you drilled, keeping them in place with some silicone adhesive. Run the new wires from the LEDs to the incoming connector tabs and solder them on. Lastly, re-attach the lens to the tow light assembly.

Figure 3. Modified lens re-attached.

Pro Tip

It's recommended to buy the 12-volt pre-wired LEDs with the resistors built in (see link in Related Discussions section below). You can choose 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm lights depending on what you like.

Related Discussions and Site