Enough people have commented on my dim brake lights that I’d like to install something brighter. From the little bit of research I’ve done, the choice seems to be quartz halogen bulbs or LEDs. There seem to be pros and cons for each.

The halogen bulbs are a direct replacement for the standard 1157 bulbs and are much brighter. But several people have reported that they have a shorter life expectancy (apparently very susceptible to vibration), draw a lot more amps (??), and may melt the tail light lenses due to increased heat. The LEDs are also brighter, but are not direct replacements for the 1157s (sounds like some Dremel work would be necessary on the tail light housing), may not be visible at certain angles, and draw so little current that the emergency flasher won’t activate.

Any experience with either? What are your thoughts?


Gary
Unique FIA 351W