2001 Headlight Issue / Radio Issue (LED)

366Chevy · July 4, 2018

Hello, as the title states. I installed LED Switchbacks for my turn signals, and I installed LED Marker and LED Running lights on the front of my truck.

After I installed these I didn't have much of an issue that I noticed, But I unplugged one of the marker lights while we were cruising last night because the socket is a little messed up and would not stay on.. After that I noticed that my headlights were not flashing when I unlocked the truck like they use too.. All the lights would usually flash when I unlocked my truck (except for the DRL)

My radio also was acting funny as the Bluetooth was all spotty and wouldn't stay connected. and it no longer works, it refuses to connect to my phone.

Would this be "LED Interference" as I have heard little parts about before? if anyone has anything that could help me it would be appreciated.

Formulabruce · July 5, 2018

LED Interference ONLY happens when there is Inductance in the wires near the bulb. This happens when AC is converted to DC ( which LED's run on) right at the bulb base. So This can happen in your garage and home, not likely in your automobile since the bulbs used are NOT for AC, and only need a resistor to get them below roughly 7 volts to work and last. Many are rated at 5, but they might be stamped at 12 for auto use.

I put the LED # 194 bulbs in my clearance lamps and they are very unreliable. They flicker, go out, then work fine depending on other loads.

This is due to the resistance NOT present in the circuit. SWitchbacks are not always made well, or tested. Whole turn signal load is different in every vehicle, this is why Flasher relays keep going like the Energizer bunny. The technology is sound, but the variables are there and the amount "off course" you with voltage, resistance or one LED ramping up resistance, the more troubles can occur. A much smaller window for error is present.

A SSR vs a Mechanical relay is a no brainer, but with many possible factors, it could cause headaches.

The radio + needs to be changed to hot off battery to eliminate it getting near the timer circuit in the dash.

Good luck