Community Forums

David49 · 06-13-2014, 06:31 PM

I'm considering buying a 2014 Ford Flex as my toad and I've heard from some on this forum that there are issues wiring lights on some cars with LED lights. Since most new cars seem to have LED lights, does anyone know if there is a problem using diodes with the 2014 Ford Flex?

FIRE UP · 06-13-2014, 10:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by David49

I'm considering buying a 2014 Ford Flex as my toad and I've heard from some on this forum that there are issues wiring lights on some cars with LED lights. Since most new cars seem to have LED lights, does anyone know if there is a problem using diodes with the 2014 Ford Flex?

David49,
Not all new cars are using LEDs as tail lights. Some manufacturers are slow on the uptake. Eventually, they'll all be there. With that being said, the very first thing I'd do if I were you, concerning utilizing the stock tail lights as toad lights is, consult a qualified Ford technician about the wiring on the new model Flex.

You see, one thing "some" manufacturers are doing in their wiring systems now is called, "multi-plexing" or, "CAN-BUSS" type wiring. What that means simply is, instead of multiple wires performing multiple functions, such as tail lights and lighting in the rear, there's sometimes one single wire that does it all. And, there's micro-processors at each end and, they decide what signals go back and forth on that single line.

So, when tying into a system like that, all kinds of problems can crop up. So, again, to be really sure, and safe, especially on a new car, I'd certainly talk with a Ford tech to get the straight and narrow of just how your 2014 Flex is wired. If they're not using that technology, then you might be safe in tying into it but, if they are, well.....
Scott

myshaggydog · 06-14-2014, 02:27 PM

David, what we did with our Honda Fit was to have them install the blue ox wiring kit. They don't use the wiring of your car but install separate light bulbs in your car's rear tail lights with new wiring harness running to the front plug. This way it doesn't interfere with your cars original wiring. Just a suggestion. Best of luck.

David49 · 06-15-2014, 07:07 PM

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to a Ford dealer tomorrow and I'll see if their technicians know if they use the multiplex wiring. I'll also see if the taillight has room for a separate bulb.

TwelveVolt · 06-15-2014, 10:07 PM

The owner manual shows that your Flex has either standard 3157K bulbs (same as my 09 Saturn), or the LED option. If you have the bulbs, there should be no problem with using diodes. If LED's, ask if they are wired with a simple +12vdc supply, or something more elaborate.