2003 Ford F150 Side Running Lights

What Are Side Running Lights?

Running lights are small, moderately illuminated lights found throughout a vehicle that increase other’s visibility of your truck, Jeep, or SUV with the lights on. Typically, these lights are found on oversized vehicles, like DRW (dual rear wheel) pickups, and illuminate whenever the parking lights are on or the truck is running (hence the name). 

In low visibility scenarios, it’s easy to mistake an oversized pickup for an average half-ton or SUV; however, running lights, particularly side running lights, indicate to other drivers that your vehicle takes up extra space on the road. Often installed on oversized mirrors and DRW flares, side running lights alert other drivers of your vehicle’s position on the road to prevent collisions. 

Aside from functionality, running lights are a stylish addition to any ride! You also don’t need to settle for the stereotypical amber lens and orange glow; aftermarket side running lights come in various illumination and lens colors for a custom appearance.

Side Running Light Types

Side running lights come in several shapes and sizes for use in different locations. Some of the most popular include: 

Running Board Lights: These lights, traditionally strips or strung-together modules, are installed beneath your vehicle’s doors, between the steps and rocker panels. When illuminated, these lights provide a clear view of the step pads and also alert other drivers of your vehicle’s added width due to the steps. 

Side Mirror Lights: Side mirror lights mount on–you guessed it–your vehicle’s side mirrors. These lights are typically used on heavy-duty pickups with tow mirrors, altering other drivers of the position of your mirrors to prevent accidental contact, especially on narrow roads. 

Side Markers: Side markers are clear indicators of your vehicle’s front and rear end, differentiated by the front’s iconic amber glow and the rear’s red illumination. 

Fender Lights: Fender lights come from the factory on most DRW pickups, also known as “dualies.” These pickups are extra-wide, typically taking up nearly an entire lane. As a result, it’s imperative to alert other drivers of your pickup’s added width, preventing unnecessary impacts and abrasions from unknowingly drifting too close or passing on a narrow road. 
Air Vent Lights: Air vent lights are purely aesthetic, adding a stylish glow to the factory-installed air vents of your Jeep’s fenders.

Additional Lighting

If you’re already upgrading your ride’s side running lights, you might as well upgrade them all! At RealTruck, we carry all types of aftermarket lighting, including cab lights, under-car lights, and more!