A Complete Guide to Underglow Kit Installation and Customization

An Introduction to Glow Panels

Glow panels, also known as underglow lights or ground effects lighting, refer to neon or LED lighting installed underneath a vehicle to illuminate the ground for a vibrant, eye-catching effect. The popularity of glow panels has skyrocketed in recent years among automotive enthusiasts looking to add a unique and custom look to their rides.

The Evolution of Glow Panels

Neon ground effects lighting first emerged in the 1980s tuned car culture scene, but were restricted to high-end sports cars due to their complex design and expensive fabrication. The advent of LED technology in the 1990s made glow panels much more accessible for the average auto customizer, ushering in the rise of underbody lights across all types of vehicles from sports compacts to luxury sedans.

Early LED glow panels were simple single color or scrolling red/blue lights. But modern RGB LED glow panels can display a full spectrum of colors and even sync to music or other audio for a dynamic, customizable underglow using sound activation technology.

Benefits of Installing Glow Panels

There are many great reasons to install undercar glow lights:

• Eye-Catching Visual Impact - glow panels attract attention and give your ride an unmistakable visual signature.
• Customization - choose from single color or RGB full color panels, along with flash patterns, music sync, and more for unlimited personalization.
• Increased Visibility - underglow makes your vehicle more noticeable to other drivers at night for improved safety.
• Adds Uniqueness - glow panels let you stand out from the crowd of ordinary stock vehicles.
• Affordable Add-On - quality LED systems have become very reasonably priced compared to older neon kits.
• Legal - contrary to some assumptions, vehicle underglow is completely street legal in most states when used properly.

How to Install Undercar Glow Lights

Installing glow panels is a straightforward bolt-on mod that can usually be tackled in your own garage with some simple hand tools and mechanical ability. Here is an overview of the installation process:

Step 1: Mounting

First, you’ll need to securely mount your glow panels and driver box/control unit underneath the vehicle using the included mounting hardware. Most kits provide durable stainless steel mounting brackets. Pick locations away from extreme heat and suspension/steering components.

Step 2: Wiring

Run power and ground wires from the engine bay or battery to the driver box. Also connect the LED light strips to the driver box. Use wire loom and zip ties to protect and cleanly route the wiring.

Step 3: Testing & Adjustment

Turn the glow panels on to confirm everything works properly. Adjust the mounting locations and angles as needed to optimize the light effect. The panels can be mounted to illuminate the front, sides, rear, or entire underside of the vehicle for different looks.

Step 4: Control Box Mounting & Programming

If not already installed, securely mount the waterproof control box with LED controller inside the car within reach of the driver. Program and test out the lighting functions - color changing modes, sound activation, brightness presets, etc. Fasten and protect all wiring under panels and carpet.

With high quality components, proper installation, and sound electrical wiring fundamentals, your glow panels will provide endless nighttime thrills for years to come!

The Best Places to Install Underglow Lights

Where you mount your glow panels affects both the visual impact as well as ease of installation. Here are some of the most popular mounting locations:

Along Rocker Panels

The rocker panel area inbetween the front and rear wheel wells is prime real estate for underglow placement. Full-length rocker strip lighting provides vibrant ground-sweeping illumination while clearing suspension and steering components.

Front Lip Spoiler

Accenting the front lip spoiler with glow panels focuses attention on the lower front fascia and front wheels for fantastic curb appeal when pulling up and parking.

Rear Valance/Bumper

The rear bumper valance is another choice location that brightly backlights the rear wheels and suspension. Great for highlighting rear wings, diffusers, exhaust tips, and other rear mods as well.

Custom Locations

Dedicated enthusiasts build custom glow panel mounts along frame rails, control arms, and even behind grilles/bumper openings for unique personalized placement. The options are endless!

Important Considerations for Underbody Lighting

Glowing up your ride with undercar lighting is an exciting endeavor, but there are some key factors to consider first:

Check Your Local Laws

Though underbody glow systems are legal in most states, some have restrictions against certain colors or mounting locations. Always check state vehicle codes before installing to avoid any issues.

High Quality Components

Purchase weatherproof, automotive-grade LED light strips and housings built to withstand road abuse for long lasting durability and vibrant output over the years.

Protected Wiring

Use proper wiring looms, conduit, grommets, and fuse protection when routing power wires from the engine bay to eliminate shorts or fires. Secure all wiring neatly out of the way using zip ties and insulated fasteners.

Watch for Overspray

Use painter's tape to mask off glow panel surfaces when spraying the undercarriage for a clean install. Check ground clearances and reposition panels or wiring post-install if needed to prevent scraping over driveways and speed bumps.

By following these guidelines, your custom glow panels will operate smoothly while delivering eye-popping curb appeal and head-turning nighttime style for years on end!

FAQs

Is underglow legal in my state?

Most states allow undercar lighting as long as it's not red/blue like emergency vehicles. Always check your local laws to confirm legality for certain colors and mounting locations before installing glow panels.

How long do underglow lights last?

Quality waterproof LED underglow kits last for thousands of hours, often up to 5-10 years. Using automotive grade components and proper installation for durability extends glow panel lifespan.

Can I install glow lights myself?

Absolutely. Underglow panels allow at-home DIY installation using basic tools and mechanical abilities. Kits include all wiring and hardware for secure mounting under any vehicle in just a couple hours.

Do I need to wire to the battery?

Wiring glow panel systems directly to the battery via the engine bay provides a clean power source. Some kits wire to the fuse panel inside the cabin instead, depending on layout. Both work well.

Will undercar lights damage my paint?

When properly installed, quality glow panel kits will not damage factory paint. Use weatherproof mounting hardware and leave a couple inches of ground clearance for driveways. Also mask off to prevent paint overspray.