Jeep Wrangler owners are some of the proudest drivers out there. Wranglers are versatile, rugged, attractive, and come with a ticket into the exclusive Jeep club.
Unfortunately, many Wrangler owners, new and old, are unhappy with the default headlights. The low light can be frustrating, especially when off-roading at night or venturing down country roads.
This article covers the best LED headlights for your Jeep Wrangler with everything you need to know, including installation and frequently asked questions.
Comparison of the Best Jeep Wrangler LED Headlights
[sc name=”best-jeep-wrangler-led-headlights”]
What to Look For in LED Headlights
There are a handful of key factors that you should be looking for in a potential set of headlights.
Price
Most likely, the cost is the first feature that you’ll notice. While the price is important, it shouldn’t be the primary determinant of your purchase. As we stated before, a higher price doesn’t necessarily mean a longer lifespan or higher quality.
DOT / SAE Certification
If the headlights you’re leaning towards are not DOT / SAE certified, then you should take a step back and reconsider. DOT / SAE certified lights are not approved by the Department of Transportation as street legal and could land you a hefty ticket, let alone harm other drivers on the road because of the extreme brightness.
Materials
The durability and lifespan of LED headlights are indirectly affected by the materials they’re made out of. For example, polycarbonate is more effective at preventing scratches and cracks than basic plastic, but glass lenses are the highest quality. The materials used to build the housing are also important as they contribute to heat distribution and overall fit.
Ease of Installation
Not all headlights are as easy as “plug and play.” Many sets of headlights will not include the correct adapters and harnesses that you need or will come without a set of instructions. Before making your purchase, make sure to read relevant customer reviews to determine if you need any additional parts or tools.
Heatsink
The fastest way to kill a pair of LED headlights is to have improper heat diffusion. A high-quality LED headlight will have a heatsink behind the light or a complex cooling system that helps filter out heat and preserve the light’s lifespan.
[sc name=”best-jeep-wrangler-led-headlights-aag”]
Review of the Best Jeep Wrangler LED Headlights
Here are our top picks for the best Jeep Wrangler LED headlights. We’ve scoured the internet looking for the best deals with raving reviews and are proud to present you with the best options for your ride that will give you both performance and durability at an affordable price.
Best Overall
J.W. Speaker 8700 Evolution J2 Series LED Headlights
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: 2007-2021 Wrangler & Unlimited
Harness Included? No
Color Temp (K): 5,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers from recent months as well as years ago all claim J.W. Speakers to be the pinnacle in a quality headlight product for their Jeeps. Check the forums, ask around. Sure, some do complain of the price and are comfortable with some knockoffs. But, we didn’t find a single person who regretted forking over the extra cash for a superior product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
J.W. Speaker stands out to us for their dedication to quality without being overboard like some companies do in their marketing. They make a fantastic product, they know it, and they stand behind it. But, they aren’t out there blasting Youtube, trashing other products, or bending the rules to say ‘mine goes further’.
The lights feature a unique “Dual-Burn” as they call it, keeping the main headlight on along with the highbeams (when activated) to put as much light downroad as possible.
Another great aspect is they are pure plug and play, and work with all JK and JL models. Some adapters are required based on if you have a JK with LEDs, or a JL with the larger headlight sockets, but that’s fair.
Bottom Line
There’s a lot to love here, but it’s pretty simple. This product is for those who want a fantastic product, a warranty, great support, and something that will last for a decade without flickering, dealing with adapter harnesses, or fading lenses.
Pros
Made in the USA
Adapters available for all light styles on JKs and JLs
Plug and Play installation with NO anti-flicker harnesses
DOT Rated and manufactured in an ISO-certified facility
Cons
Pricey, but worth it
Not compatible with TJs or older models
Runner-up
LX-LIGHT SL-0075A-Black
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: 76-’86 CJ-7; ’81-’85 CJ-8; ’97-’06 TJ; ’03-’06 TJU & LJ; ’17-’18 JK; ’07-’18 JKU
Harness Included? Yes
Color Temp (K): 6,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have had nothing but positive reviews about their purchase from LX-LIGHT. Across the board, the installation was as easy as advertised, and they perform much better than stock Wrangler headlights.
A few things customers recommended keeping note of was to make sure the headlights are angled as downward as possible during installation because the brightness is harmful when viewed dead-on by other drivers. Also, keep a roll of electrical tape handy for securing wires. Other than that, these headlights are phenomenal for the price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These LX-LIGHT Led Headlights stand out to us for a variety of reasons. First, the blacked-out housing is very aesthetically pleasing and contributes to an overall clean Wrangler appearance. Second, installation is a breeze. Lastly, for the price, they have an amazing lifespan, great performance, and high-quality engineering.
Bottom Line
These LED headlights by LX-LIGHT are our best overall pick because of their easy installation, affordable price, and high-quality features.
Pros
Blacked out housing is aesthetically clean and well-built
Built-in anti-flicker resistor means less bulk and contributes to an easy installation
Extremely bright, so it is unlikely you will have to use your high-beams often while driving
The LX-LIGHT patented breathing hole on the back of the headlight prevents moisture or condensation and extends the life of the headlight
Cons
Need to be angled downward as possible or you will temporarily blind other drivers
Lenses are made of polycarbonate, which means that they scratch easily compared to glass lights
Second Runner-up
Afeax LED Headlights
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: 1984-2001 Cherokee XJ, 1987-1995 Wrangler YJ, 1986 – 1992 Comanche MJ
Harness Included? Yes
Color Temp (K): 6,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
Trying to find a negative review on these Afeax LED Headlights was like searching for a needle in a haystack. Recent buyers had nothing but praise. Many noticed that these lights consumed less power than their stock headlights. They also had a breeze with installation and were extremely satisfied with the final results.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It can be hard to find an upgrade for outdated halogen lights, but Afeax’s LED Headlights step in to save the day. These stand out to us because they’re highly affordable with great performance and are easy to install. The brightness opens a new world to drivers, and when angled correctly, do not irritate oncoming drivers at all.
Bottom Line
For Wrangler owners with models from 1987 to 1995, these Afeax LED Headlights are a must-buy if you’re looking to improve your visibility.
Pros
DOT / SAE approved
Extremely easy installation process
Requires less energy than stock headlights, which means less stress on your battery
HD lens surface and convex reflectors mean that you will not temporarily blind other drivers at night
Cons
Plastic lenses are fragile and susceptible to scratches
[sc name=”see-table-button”]
Best for the Money
GXENOGO Halo Headlights
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: 2007-2017 Wrangler JK, Wrangler JKU
Harness Included? Yes
Color Temp (K): 6,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
Many recent buyers have been raving over these Halo Headlights by GXENOGO for many reasons. One of the primary compliments to these lights is the easy installation; GXENOGO includes a smart adapter, making it a breeze to set up the amber turn signal lights while competing headlight manufacturers require difficult wire splicing for the same feature.
Unfortunately, more than a handful of buyers reported one of their headlights dying in under six months, so we couldn’t write this off as one faulty set. GXENOGO only offers a 30-day return period, so if you go with these, then we recommend buying a separate protection plan just in case.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These headlights by GXENOGO stand out to us because of the plethora of features for an affordable price. It’s extremely challenging to find a pair of high-quality halo lights that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, and these are it. Installation is simplified compared to similar headlights, and the performance is extraordinary.
Bottom Line
You get what you pay for. If you’re looking for the best choice on a budget, then look no further than these GXENOGO Halo Headlights.
Pros
Built-in anti-flicker for a smoother installation
Engineered with two breathers for more efficient heat release
Comes with four operating modes: high beam, low beam, pure white DRL, and amber turn signal light
Comes with a smart adapter, which makes it easy to “plug and play” and configure the amber turn signal feature with no splicing
Cons
Multiple customers reported one headlight dying in under six months
Waterproofing is not great, and condensation can build within the lights
Best Jeep Wrangler TJ LED Headlights
BICYACO LED Headlight
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: Wrangler JK, Wrangler LJ, Wrangler CJ
Harness Included? No
Color Temp (K): 6,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
After finding a reliable tutorial to use online for installation due to the lack of instructions, recent buyers were pleased with their purchase. Due to the brightness, many reviewers recommended heading into a mechanic to get them properly aligned so that you avoid blinding other drivers. Some Sahara owners reported having sizing issues and needed to use some tape to fit the lights, but those with TJs had no problems and were thrilled.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These headlights stand out to us because they’re placed at a great, affordable price, perform amazingly, and are DOT / SAE approved.
Bottom Line
These are the best LED headlights for Jeep Wrangler TJs because they fit perfectly and perform well.
Pros
Lower price than other reviewed options
Advertised lifespan of more than 50,000 hours
Well-defined cutoff to avoid blinding other drivers
D-shape projector lens projects an even, unaltered light pattern
Upgraded polycarbonate lenses are easier to clean and more durable
Cons
Comes in bare packaging with no instructions, so you will need to find a tutorial online or visit a shop
Best Jeep Wrangler JK LED Headlights
Nilight Cree LED Headlight
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: 1997-2017 Wrangler JK, TJ, CJ, Rubicon, Sahara
Harness Included? Yes
Color Temp (K): 6,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
These Nilight Cree LED Headlights have some mixed reviews. Overall, most recent buyers were thrilled with the final result but found much to be desired during the installation process. These lights do not come with an anti-flicker harness and need to be purchased elsewhere, which is a significant downside. Other than that, buyers were thrilled with the bright output and DOT SAE certification.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These Nilight Cree headlights stood out to us because of the outpour of positive reviews from JK owners. They fit perfectly in the housing and provide excellent performance once installed with an anti-flicker harness.
Bottom Line
The Nilight Cree LED Headlights are an excellent, affordable choice for JK owners, but beware of the additional cost incurred when purchasing an anti-flicker harness.
Pros
60% lower power consumption than average headlights
Polycarbonate lens for better light transmission
Dust and waterproof rating of IP 67 is great for off-roading
Nilight patented breathing hold prevents moisture and condensation
Housing uses aviation-grade aluminum, which is great for heat dissipation
Cons
Susceptible to flickering
Need to buy additional parts for proper installation
Best Jeep Wrangler LED Fog Headlights
SUPAREE RGB Headlights
Specifications
Fitment Years / Generations: 1997-2017 Wrangler JK, TJ, LJ Unlimited, CJ
Harness Included? No
Color Temp (K): 6,000
IP 67 Rated? Yes
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
SUPAREE’s RGB Headlights have received nothing but positivity from reviewers. The mobile application works well on both Apple and Android, and installation is quick and easy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These headlights stand out to us because although the price is higher than the other reviewed sets, they’re significantly more affordable than other headlights that offer the same features. We’re also impressed with the included two-year warranty, which is rare among aftermarket manufacturers.
Bottom Line
These headlights are great fog lights with an intuitive, easy-to-control mobile app. You can rest easy knowing that if anything faulty happens within the first two years, you’re covered by SUPAREE.
Pros
Bluetooth controlled LED headlights
Two-year warranty included with purchase
Built-in rubber seal for dust and water resistance
Both required adapters are included for installation
Polycarbonate lenses for high temperature and scratch resistance
Cons
Not DOT SAE approved
Higher price compared to other reviewed headlights
[sc name=”see-table-button”]
How Long Do LED Headlights Last?
It’s hard to find a single number for how long LED headlights last because it depends on a variety of factors. “You get what you pay for” is highly relevant, as a pair of LED headlights that are significantly cheaper than the rest probably have a reason for the low price. At the same time, the most expensive LED headlights do not mean the longest lasting.
On average, high-quality LED headlights have the potential to last approximately 45,000 hours. An average LED bulb at an average price will last about 20,000 hours. While this may not sound like much time, 20,000 hours is equivalent to leaving your headlights on for two years straight.
The most important factor in preserving your LED headlights’ lifespan is assuring that there is a proper system in place for heat releases, such as a heatsink or fan system. This is easy to figure out at the time of purchase, but if you’re ever unsure, reading customer reviews is one of the easiest ways to determine the specific lifespan of a set of LED headlights.
Comparison Overview
In this section, we compare and contrast the three different types of headlights: LED, HID, and halogen, by using a variety of different factors such as lifespan, durability, and functionality.
HID vs LED Headlights
LED (light-emitting diode) headlights are the clear winner over Xenon HID (high-intensity discharge) lights, but let’s explore why.
Lifespan
LED headlights are highly energy-efficient and have low heat emission, which contributes to their long lifespan. LED headlights to have an average lifespan of 45,000 hours, while HID headlights only have about 15,000 hours due to their low energy efficiency and high heat emission.
Durability
HID headlights have moving parts and filaments within the lights, which means that they’re more prone to breaking or experiencing issues. LED headlights, on the other hand, have no moving parts, which makes them shockproof with high durability.
Colors
HID headlights have more available colors than LED headlights, but the short lifespan still puts them at a significant disadvantage.
LED vs Halogen Headlights
Halogen headlights were one of the first lighting technologies to be used in the United States. Most cars and trucks still come equipped with halogen lights because of the low price and relatively sufficient lighting. Unfortunately, halogen headlights are terrible compared to LEDs for a variety of reasons:
Energy Efficiency
Halogen headlights require lots of power (approximately 5x more than LED headlights), but they get extremely hot, meaning there is lots of wasted energy. Halogen headlights also have some lag when turned on and require a few moments to gain brightness.
LED headlights have an instant turn-on time, high energy efficiency, and low heat emission.
Lifespan
LED headlights have a lifespan of approximately 45,000 hours, while halogen headlights only last 2,000 give or take.
Functionality
The performance between halogen and LED headlights is extremely noticeable. Most LED headlights are very bright, coming in at about 9,000 lumens, while halogen headlights are very dull at 3,000 lumens. LED headlights to reach three times farther than halogen headlights and are available in all colors, while halogen headlights adhere to a yellow tint.
How to Install LED Headlights on Your Jeep Wrangler
Not all headlights will come with a step-by-step guide on installing LED headlights on your Jeep Wrangler. To install headlights on your Jeep Wrangler (2006 to present), follow these steps:
- First, you need to remove the grill. To do so, you need to unlatch the pull tabs along the top of the grill and disconnect the turn signal lights. Once this is done, pull from the bottom corners. Put the grill aside.
- Use a torque wrench to remove the bolts keeping the headlight in place.
- Disconnect the connector to the headlight by releasing the red tab.
- Depending on the headlights you purchased, you will either be able to plug in the new headlight immediately or will need to set up the adapter to the new headlight. Connect the new headlight.
- Put all of the wires inside.
- Use the guiding rails on the new headlight, align the light, and then push firmly to secure it.
- Screw the metal rim back in.
- Test all of the headlight settings (low beams, high beams, etc.)
- Reconnect your turn signal connectors and put the grill back on.
Be sure to watch this video for a full overview of what was just described.
Conclusion
There you have it, the six best LED headlights for Jeep Wranglers. We feel confident that you’ll be satisfied with any pick listed above, especially our best overall choice.
With any set of LED headlights, be sure to research the installation process, materials used, and whether or not they’re DOT / SAE certified to save yourself a headache later on.
Recap – Best LED Headlights for Jeep Wrangler
Here’s a quick recap of the best Jeep Wrangler LED headlights:
- Diode Dynamics Switchback LED Halo Lights Wrangler JL
- LX-LIGHT SL-0075A-black
- Afeax LED Headlights
[sc name=”see-table-button”]
People Also Ask
You’ve reached the end and still have some questions regarding your Jeep Wrangler LED headlights? No worries, below is a comprehensive list of questions that people also ask.
It is possible to put LED bulbs into older headlights, but it requires more than just screwing in new lights. LEDs work differently from older technologies like halogen headlights, so if you want to convert your headlights to LED bulbs, you will need to do so with help from a conversion kit. Conversion kits ensure that the transition to LED is electrically sound and secure.
LED headlights use less power than traditional halogen bulbs and HID headlights.
If you purchase CANBus (Controlled Area Network Bus) supported headlights, you will not need to purchase a decoder. On the other hand, incompatible headlights will either notify you of a CANBus error after installing or flicker uncontrollably, and you will need to purchase a decoder.
Flickering LED headlights on your Jeep Wrangler do not mean that your headlights are broken. It simply means that there is a CANBus issue. If the headlights are not CANBus supported, then you need to buy and install a decoder. The flickering will stop.
The two most common issues with recently installed headlights are flickering or no power. Check all of the wire connections and install an anti-flicker harness. This should fix the problem. If it doesn’t, then you should contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
To learn how to install LED headlights in your Jeep Wrangler, refer to our step-by-step guide above or the posted video below for a clear explanation.
Aftermarket LED headlights are not street legal unless they are DOT / SAE certified. Companies in China have been caught marking headlights as DOT / SAE certified even though they are not and then exporting them to the United States, so doing further research on a potential imported purchase is necessary.
LED headlights project an average of 2,000 to 4,000 lumens.
Who Worked on This?
Brian
Editor
A master of organization, Brian helps keep everything running smoothly for Your Jeep Guide.
No Jeep yet but we’re working on that!
Cory
Writer
Cory loves his XJ and frequently thrashes it through the hills. He’s constantly fixing something.
“What fenders?”
Check Us Out!
