6 Best Tailgate Light Bars to Stay Safe on the Road at Night

If you drive a pickup truck or large SUV and often find yourself driving at night, you might be thinking about installing an LED tailgate light bar. With a light bar attached to your truck’s rear end, other drivers can more easily see you on the road whenever you’re braking, turning, or reversing.

However, not all truck manufacturers offer a tailgate light bar as a standard or paid option (in fact, pretty much none of them do), so you may need to rely on third-party aftermarket alternatives. However, there are a ton of options to choose from out there, and it’s quite easy to get confused in selecting the right one for your truck. Luckily, our experts are here to help you narrow down your choices.

In this article, we’ve reviewed six of the best tailgate light bars currently available on the market. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about them, the strengths and weaknesses of each product, and a few points to take into considerations before you buy one for yourself.

I hope it helps!

Best Tailgate Light Bar Reviews

We understand choosing the right tailgate light bar for your truck can give you a headache. Hence we’ve gathered our pick on the top six tailgate light bars with the ideal specification to fit most truck models in North America.

For comparison purposes, all of the light bars we’ve selected are 60-inch long (although some are also available in 48- or 49-inch configurations) and require a 12-volt DC power source. There’s also a plug-and-play standard flat 4-pin trailer light connector and a built-in self-adhesive tape included with each for easy installation. Moreover, these LED bars are multifunctional, featuring five to six lighting purposes and two to three different colors.

Now without further ado, let’s get started!

1. Nilight TR-01 LED Tailgate Light Bar — Budget Pick

The Nilight TR-01 has a lot of features packed under a tremendously affordable price. For starters, the single-row tailgate light bar is made with 108 LEDs, which the brand claim is 35% brighter than standard chips. It has five lighting modes — running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, and reversing light — and two colors — red and white.

Installing the Nilight TR-01 is incredibly easy, thanks to the pre-fixed adhesive tape. For even more reassurance, mounting hardware (consisting of two clips and four screws) is also a part of the purchase. Furthermore, connecting the light with the power source is pretty straightforward, using a standard 4-pin flat connector, making the wiring process as simple as possible. And just in case, an instruction manual is also included to guide you through the installation procedure.

On the downside, you have to compromise with the lack of color options and hazard light function. But even so, thanks to the low pricing, 30,000 hours claimed lifespan, and IP67 dust- and water-resistance rating, the Nilight TR-01 easily deserves our Budget Pick title.

If you want a tailgate light bar that does what it’s supposed to do without breaking the bank, this is the one!

Key Features

• Bar length: 60-inch
• Voltage: 12v
• LED row(s): 1
• Color: red/white
• Lighting mode: running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, reversing light
• IP67 dust- and water-resistant
• 1-year warranty

Pros

• Very affordable
• Has plenty of features for its price
• Long 30,000 hours claimed lifespan

Cons

• No hazard light mode
• No amber color

2. Mictuning MICTL135 LED Tailgate Light Bar

The Mictuning MICTL135 is another high-quality but budget-friendly tailgate light bar. It features 504 LEDs in a triple-row configuration and has the same lighting functions as the previous model, with the addition of hazard mode and amber color.

It seems that safety and durability are two of Mictuning’s priorities here. With plenty of LED chips to protect, the brand gave this model a fully sealed silicone housing, resulting in an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. It also uses an inline fuse for added protection against short circuits.

Sadly, while the installation method and the included mounting hardware are the same as the previous product, there’s no warranty whatsoever on this one. Luckily, Mictuning does have a return and refund policy that applies within 30 days of purchase. Also, the brand claims this particular product might not fit into some European truck models.

Nonetheless, if you can overlook those slight drawbacks, the Mictuning MICTL135 might very well be the tailgate light bar with the most features and longer lifespan for the price.

Key Features

• Bar length: 60-inch
• Voltage: 12v
• LED row(s): 3
• Color: red/white/amber
• Lighting mode: running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, hazard light, reversing light
• IP67 dust- and water-resistant

Pros

• Reasonably priced given the extra features
• Comes with an inline fuse for short circuit protection

Cons

• No warranty
• Not suitable for some European trucks

3. OPT7 Redline ‎900-00403 LED Tailgate Light Bar — Editor’s Pick

Sporting our Editor’s Pick title, the OPT7 ‎Redline 900-00403 has many things to make it stand out from the rest of the list. First off, the three-row light bar features 1200 individual LEDs for a seamless beam of light, claimed to last up to 50,000 hours. Added to that is a complete set of six lighting modes, in which the turning signals and hazards can display a fancy sequential animation when turned on.

This particular tailgate light strip has a rust-resistant aluminum chassis and is available in either 60- or 48-inch lengths (with the 48-inch housing 780 LEDs instead). The bar also has IP67 dust- and water-resistant rating and a pre-installed adhesive foam tape for easy mounting.

Although the price is moderately steep, we still think the OPT7 ‎Redline 900-00403 has plenty to justify it. Not to mention, it’s also backed by a generous 2-year warranty too. Hence, we’re not shocked that this is currently the number one best-selling tailgate light bar out there.

But worth noting, OPT7 stated this product is not compatible with a few Ford models, especially those with Ford’s BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System). Also, just for an additional $15, the manufacturer also offers a better warranty package covering unlimited defects and free returns with faster processing time in the US.

Key Features

• Bar length: 60-inch
• Voltage: 12v
• LED row(s): 3
• Color: red/white/amber
• Lighting mode: running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, hazard light, reversing light
• IP67 dust- and water-resistant
• 2-year warranty

Pros

• Nice sequential turn signals and hazards
• Long 50,000 hours claimed lifespan
• Generous warranty
• Rigid aluminum frame
• Available in shorter bar length

Cons

• Not compatible with a few Ford models
• Add-on warranty with better coverage only available in the US

4. Recon Xtreme 26416X LED Tailgate Light Bar

Recon’s reputation in making reliable and innovative automotive lighting equipment is already well established and its Xtreme 26416X tailgate light bar is a prime example of that. This single-row light bar is pretty advanced, featuring six lighting modes and three LED colors in such a tight construction. Moreover, it’s the only tailgate light bar on this list to have been approved road legal by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), and Department of Transportation (DOT).

The purchase of this light bar includes the same installation equipment as the rest of the products on this list. It’s also available in both 49-inch or 60-inch bar lengths, and there seems to be no incompatible truck model ever recorded. However, keep in mind the unrated water resistance rating and the cheeseparing 90 days warranty period.

And yes, the Recon Xtreme 26416X has a pretty high price tag for a one-row light bar. Still, although it could’ve offered more features, Recon successfully proves that a single-row light bar doesn’t have to be lacking in functions. Let’s say that Recon’s tailgate light bar is for those appreciating function over form.

Key Features

• Bar length: 60-inch
• Voltage: 12v
• LED row(s): 1
• Color: red/white/amber
• Lighting mode: running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, hazard light, reversing light
• Water-resistant (unrated)
• 90-day warranty

Pros

• Available in shorter bar length
• Extremely bright brake lights
• NHTSA, SAE and DOT approved

Cons

• Stingy warranty
• No official rating for waterproofness despite the moderately high price

5. Rampage 960136 LED Tailgate Light Bar

Featuring a single row configuration, the Rampage 960136 is maximizing the use of space using a high-quality SMT (Surface Mount Technology) circuit board. Consequently, the light bar’s components can be aligned closer together, resulting in a thinner and sleeker design. This one also offers six lighting modes, despite only producing red and white colors.

The Rampage LED tailgate light bar is available 60-inch or 49-inch, depending on the size of your tailgate. The price is on the lower side, and it comes with a 3M adhesive foam tape for practical mounting plus a 1-year warranty.

Rampage claims that the 960136 is water-resistant and could support a long service life, but both of these claims are unrated. Despite that, the reviews are full of evidence that these light bars are incredibly durable and last for a long time. This model is a great alternative to the Mictuning MICTL135—at a similar price point, Rampage’s model excels in the warranty and compactness department.

Key Features

• Bar length: 60-inch
• Voltage: 12v
• LED row(s): 1
• Color: red/white
• Lighting mode: running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, hazard light, reversing light
• Water-resistant (unrated)
• 1-year warranty

Pros

• Thin and seamless design
• Fairly priced
• Has a high-quality SMT technology circuit board
• Available in shorter bar length

Cons

• No amber color
• Unrated water resistance

6. Putco Red Blade 9201060 LED Tailgate Light Bar — Premium Pick

Putco is famous for making premium automotive lighting solutions, and the Red Blade 9201060 is no exception. This three-row tailgate light bar promises extra brightness and maximum visibility, thanks to a high-powered chip specifically developed for the product.

As a result, the red and amber LEDs are super bright, while the white ones look even better at 6000 Kelvin, making the six lighting modes work superbly, night and day.

And we said that Putco produces superior products, we meant it. Indeed, the Red Blade 9201060 is IP69K dust- and water-resistant, the highest waterproof rating available. The kit also includes more advanced mounting hardware to ensure a solid placement no matter how harsh the road condition. Added to that is the most generous warranty on this list, covering three years of steady use. Oh, and you can also get it in 48-inch length too.

Unfortunately, all of these attractive features do come at a price. And if you own a Ford F-150 or Super-Duty series, you might want to make sure of its compatibility first before buying. Nonetheless, this tailgate light bar is another brilliant piece of engineering by Putco, and we think it’s worth having if you have the budget.

If you want the best of the best, this is the one you need!

Key Features

• Bar length: 60-inch
• Voltage: 12v
• LED row(s): 3
• Color: red/white/amber
• Lighting mode: running light, braking light, right/left turning signal, hazard light, reversing light
• IP69K dust- and water-resistant
• 3-year warranty

Pros

• Generous warranty
• Has the highest waterproof rating available
• Heavy-duty wiring harness
• Excellent 6000K white light output
• Available in shorter bar length

Cons

• On the pricier side
• There will be a few disabled functions on some Ford models

What to Look for When Buying a Tailgate Light Bar

Bar Length

First of all, making sure the light bar size would fit your tailgate is obviously a priority (otherwise, it wouldn’t work no matter how well-built or expensive the light bar is). With most light bars have sizes ranging from 48-60 inches, getting the right size for your truck won’t be hard.

Just make sure to measure your truck’s bed before buying. Keep in mind the area between the tailgate and rear bumper as you want the light bar to fit into that space. And if you’re unsure, you can always check on your truck’s owner’s manual to find the exact size.

As long as you choose a light bar shorter than your tailgate, you’re good to go.

Durability

Durability can often be an issue with third-party aftermarket accessories. As tailgate light bars face harsh conditions like rain, dust, dirt, and snow, you want ones with excellent durability for a higher chance of surviving long-term usage.

There are a few things to check regarding durability. Firstly is the lifespan, with most models lasting between 30,000-50,000 hours. It’s better to go with the ones that have their rated service life stated by the manufacturer for reassurance.

Secondly, you need to check the light bar’s construction, which must be strong enough to withstand rough handling from bumpy roads and the occasional rocks. You can either go for a flexible silicone housing or an aluminum frame, both of which are equally durable.

Lastly, dust and water resistance is a must-have feature in a tailgate light bar and it’s important to keep in mind that manufacturers can easily claim their products are waterproof. But still, we recommend going for a model with an official IP rating (e.g., IP67, IP69K) for a more legit claim.

Number of LED Rows

Commonly, a tailgate light bar comes in one to three-row configurations, with all of them having their own perks. One-row (single-row) light bars are often not as bright as multiple-row models, but they are thinner and more compact, making them more suitable for trucks with a smaller tailgate (or if you just like to be a little more discreet).

Meanwhile, two-row (double-row) lightbars are slightly wider and feature more LED lights than one-rows. This makes them brighter and more visible from a distance.

But if you’re considering getting more than a single row, you might as well get one with three rows (triple-row). They pack more LEDs, enhancing visibility even during daytime. Furthermore, triple-row light bars often have each row dedicated to one color to showcase clearer and bolder colors on the road.

Color Variation

US law prevents any taillight colors other than red, amber, and white. Hence those are the only color variations you’d commonly get in these LED light bars. At the minimum, a tailgate light bar should accommodate red and white colors — with the red LEDs functioning as the running lights, brake lights, and turn signals, and the white as reversing lights. Though, it’s nicer if you can get one capable of producing amber color too for clearer turning signals and hazard lights.

Ease of Installation

There are a few ways to install a tailgate light bar. You can either stick it with epoxy glue (permanent), attach it using clips and screws (permanent), or just go with the most common method nowadays, using adhesive tapes (semi-permanent).

With most manufacturers selling light bars with built-in 3M adhesive foam, it is really the installation method you want. Just remove the adhesive cover and stick the light bar on the vehicle without requiring any glue or drilling. This is hands down the most convenient and easiest way to mount a taillight light bar—not to mention that it’s also the only method that will allow you to remove the light at some point (good luck taking it off if it’s epoxied on there).

However, if you don’t mind the holes, combining adhesive tape with screws actually creates a more secure connection between the light bar and the tailgate—such a setup would be recommended if you often drive off-road.

Verdict

A tailgate light bar is an accessory that serves as a backlighting enhancer. It adds functionality, safety, and aesthetics. Therefore, if you feel like your truck needs one, you probably won’t regret it.

Luckily, there’s an option at every price point. If you don’t feel like spending too much on a tailgate light bar, you’d be alright going with the Nilight TR-01. It’s cheap, loaded with features, and has a promising 30,000 hours lifespan.

On the other hand, the premium light bar seeker shouldn’t settle for anything less than the Putco Red Blade. With brighter than average LEDs, class-leading water resistance, and a 3-year warranty, it’s simply the best tailgate light bar you can get if you don’t mind paying a little more.

However, if we had to put our hard-money money on only one, we’re taking home the OPT7 Redline. Thanks to the three-row configuration, rigid aluminum construction, nicely animated sequential turn signals, 50,000 hours claimed lifespan, and super affordable price tag, this one is a no-brainer!

Download 2.5M+ car repair manuals here!