Light It Up: How to Install LED Lights in Your Truck Bed (In Just 4 Steps)

Light It Up: How to Install LED Lights in Your Truck Bed (In Just 4 Steps)

May 01, 2025

You can never have too much LED light—especially when it comes to your truck bed. Whether you're loading gear after dark or just want a custom look, truck bed LED lights are a a essential addition to any truck. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the same 4-step installation process you’ll see in the video.

 

What You'll Need:

  • Truck bed LED light kit (with 3M adhesive backing)
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Adhesion promoter
  • Power wire (long enough to reach your battery)
  • Inline fuse
  • External switch
  • Heat shrink connectors or quality crimps
  • Wire stripper/crimper tool

1. Clean the Surface

Before you stick anything, prep is key. Use isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly wipe down the mounting surface where your LED strips will go. Once the area is dry, apply an adhesion promoter to improve the bond between the 3M backing tape and the truck bed surface.

2. Install the LED Light Strips

Peel back a few inches of the adhesive at a time, pressing the strip firmly as you go. Take your time—working slowly ensures full contact and keeps the strip aligned. Place the lights high on the bed walls or under the bed rail for a clean, hidden glow.

3. Pull the Power Cable

Next, you’ll route a power cable from your truck’s battery to the bed. Be sure to include an inline fuse near the battery—this protects your entire system from shorts or overloads.

Run the cable through existing grommets or along the frame using wire loom or zip ties to keep it secure and out of harm’s way.

4. Connect All Lights to Power

With your power line in place, it’s time to wire it all up. Use an external switch to control the lights, and make your connections using high-quality crimps and heat-shrink tubing. This ensures solid, weather-resistant connections for all three wires: power, ground, and switch.

Once everything is hooked up, flip the switch—and enjoy the glow.

Truck Bed Goals: Achieved

Installing truck bed LED lights isn’t just about visibility—it’s about convenience, safety, and adding a custom touch to your rig. With just a few basic tools and a little time, you can transform your bed space into a fully lit, functional zone you’ll actually want to use at night.

Have questions about your setup? Drop them in the comments or reach out—we’re always happy to help.