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LED Dash Lights
What Are LED Dash Lights?
LED dash lights are compact interior-mounted warning lights placed on the dashboard, mounted with suction cups to windshield, or rear deck of a vehicle. These lights are used by emergency responders and professional operators to increase visibility during traffic stops, roadside assistance, and on scene incidents. When mounted properly, they provide front facing and or rear facing warning coverage.
Common applications include:
- Law enforcement and unmarked patrol units
- Fire trucks, incident response vehicles
- EMS and ambulance fleets
- Tow trucks and roadside service units
- DOT, construction, and escort vehicles
- Volunteer firefighter and EMS POVs (as permitted by state law)
All Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights are built with high-intensity 3-watt LEDs. Each unit includes pattern memory and sync capability for integration with other emergency lighting systems in the vehicle.
Key Features and Benefits
3-Watt High-Intensity LEDs
LED dash lights from Extreme Tactical Dynamics are built with powerful 3-watt LEDs that deliver reliable brightness in both daylight and nighttime conditions. Each unit is engineered for focused lighting output with precise beam control. The intensity exceeds the requirements for effective traffic warning in law enforcement, fire response, and utility operations far surpassing SAE class 1 lighting standards.
Optics for Focused and Wide-Angle Coverage
Extreme Tactical Dynamics offers LED dash lights with both TIR (focused beam) and LIN (wide spread) optics. TIR lenses produce a narrow, intense beam ideal for long-range warning, while LIN optics deliver broader light coverage for increased side visibility. Some models combine both technologies in our new hybrid optics lens. This approach provides balanced visibility through angled windshields, wider front and rear end coverage in intersections, and improved effectiveness during emergency responses.
Flash Pattern Memory and Strobe Mode Options
Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights come with up to 36 built in strobe flash patterns, including single flash, double flash, quad burst, and steady burn. These patterns give you control over how your vehicle is seen in any emergency or roadside situation. Every unit features standard memory to retain your last selected strobe pattern when powered off. Several models now offer dual memory, allowing you to switch between two saved modes instantly. Whether you're using your dash light as a primary LED strobe or in combination with visor or grille lights, these functions give you the flexibility and visibility needed.
Sync-Ready Dash Lights for Unified Warning Output
Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights feature sync ready wiring, allowing you to link multiple units lights to flash in coordinated strobe patterns. Sync capability ensures your warning lights operate in perfect unison, increasing visibility during emergency responses, roadside stops, and traffic control. This feature is especially valuable for first responder vehicles that require a clean, professional look and maximum light clarity from all angles.
Low Profile Design
The compact housing fits tight to the dashboard or windshield. Flashback guards reduce glare inside the vehicle. Units can be mounted high or low depending on windshield angle or vehicle size. These units mount via suction cup brackets or permanent mounts.
Dash lights are also commonly mounted on rear decks and rear windows to provide additional warning coverage from the back of the vehicle. This setup is popular with unmarked units, security vehicles, construction trucks and volunteer firefighters. Our low profile designs ensure a clean front or rear view appearance while maintaining high visibility. Flashback shields and angle adjustable brackets help direct light outward while minimizing reflection into the vehicle interior.
Built for Rugged Use
Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights are engineered for rugged use inside emergency responder vehicles. These units are built to withstand vibration, temperature swings, and constant on and off cycles without performance loss. Each model uses durable components to ensure long term reliability during emergency operations.
Color Options
Choosing the Right LED Dash Light Color
Extreme Tactical Dynamics offers LED dash lights in a wide range of color options to meet legal requirements and operational needs. Depending on the model, lights are available in solid, split, or dual color configurations.
- Red: Fire departments, EMS, and authorized responders
- Blue: Police and law enforcement only
- Amber: Tow trucks, DOT, construction trucks, utility fleets
- White: Takedown or scene lighting
- Green: Volunteer EMS in certain states
Several models now support dual color strobe patterns, allowing two warning colors in one unit. Others include our Blaze Core™ Takedown Mode, which activates a steady white override for scene illumination while maintaining warning visibility. Availability of these features varies by unit.
Each product listing clearly shows which models offer split color, dual output, or Blaze mode so you can choose the configuration that matches your requirements and complies with local laws.
Color Configurations Explained
- Solid Color: A single warning color per unit commonly red, blue, amber, white, or green depending on the application.
- Split Color: Two colors in one unit, with one color on each side (e.g., red/white or amber/white). Offers increased visibility and functional flexibility.
- Dual Color: Each unit uses double the LEDs, allowing each module to switch between two colors. This provides either two color warning patterns or double intensity from a single color depending on the mode selected.
Select models also feature dual color strobe patterns and our exclusive Blaze Core™ Takedown Mode, which activates steady white lighting for scene work while maintaining flashing warning output.
These configurations support law enforcement, construction, fire response, utility, and volunteer responder needs—matching your vehicle’s legal and operational requirements.
Takedown Lighting and Scene Visibility
Select LED dash lights from Extreme Tactical Dynamics include integrated white takedown lighting for steady burn use. These modules provide focused illumination for traffic stops, roadside incidents, or interior scene work without compromising the warning function.
Takedown lights are often wired to a separate switch or control box, allowing operators to instantly toggle between flashing mode and steady white light. This is especially useful for law enforcement and security professionals who need visibility without strobing during specific operations.
Several advanced models feature our Blaze Core™ Takedown Mode, which adds a powerful white override to dual-color or warning patterns. Merging safety lighting and working light functions in one unit.
Mounting Options
Windshield, Rear Deck, and Window Mounting
Extreme Tactical Dynamics LED dash lights offer flexible mounting options for the front windshield, rear deck, or rear window. Most units offer suction cup brackets for quick installation or L-brackets for secure, permanent mounting.
Lights can be installed on the driver side, passenger side, or center, depending on your cab layout and visibility needs. Rear deck and rear window mounting is especially popular with undercover units, construction trucks, volunteer firefighters, and security vehicles, delivering discreet rear facing warning coverage.
Low profile designs maintain the undercover look and flash back shields assist in offering strong visibility while reducing interior reflection. Angle-adjustable brackets help fine-tune beam direction for maximum effectiveness.
Flashback Guards and Gaskets
Flashback shields reduce glare inside the vehicle while directing more light outward for better visibility. Rubber mounting gaskets help protect glass and trim from scratches, vibrations, and mounting pressure.
Adjustable Brackets
Select LED dash lights from Extreme Tactical Dynamics include pivoting brackets or sliding tracks that let you fine tune the angle of the light. This makes it easy to adjust beam direction based on your windshield slope, dash height, or rear deck position ensuring maximum visibility where it matters most.
Installation Tips and Mounting Guidance
Tools needed for dash light installation
- Phillips screwdriver: For mounting brackets and tightening hardware
- Wire strippers or crimpers: Required for clean electrical connections if hardwiring
- 12V test light or multimeter: Helps you identify power sources and confirm polarity
- Inline fuse: Protects your circuit (sold separately)
- Zip ties or cable clips – For neatly securing wires out of the way
These basic tools help ensure a reliable, professional-looking installation whether you’re mounting on the windshield, rear deck, or window.
Simple Plug-and-Play Dash Light Installation
- Plug the unit directly into your vehicle’s 12V power outlet
- Attach the suction mounts securely to your windshield or window
- Turn it on and you're ready for duty
- Use the integrated switch to select your desired flash pattern
This plug-and-play configuration is perfect for unmarked units, volunteer responders, or any operator needing temporary or mobile emergency lighting without hardwiring.
Hardwiring Recommendations
- Use a 3-amp inline fuse on the power line
- Ground to bare metal with a secure ring terminal
- Route wires behind dash panels using OEM channels
- Avoid airbag zones and moving parts
- Label wires for future reference
Wiring Diagrams and Syncing Multiple Dash Lights
Every Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash light includes a detailed wiring diagram to guide installation. If you're setting up multiple units in sync, simply connect the sync wires from each unit together, then power them on at the same time.
This ensures all lights flash in perfect coordination, enhancing your vehicle's visibility and professionalism. Whether you're wiring a two light setup or integrating with grille, visor, or surface lights, the included diagrams make it easy to get the job done right.
Power Requirements
Standard Operating Voltage
All Extreme Tactical Dynamics LED dash lights are designed to operate on a standard 12V DC system, making them fully compatible with virtually all cars, trucks, SUVs, emergency response vehicles, and fleet units. This universal voltage ensures plug and play functionality or straightforward hardwiring into your existing vehicle electrical system.
Current Draw
Most LED dash lights from Extreme Tactical Dynamics draw between 0.5 to 1.5 amps, depending on the size and flash pattern selected. This low current requirement allows multiple lights to safely run from a single fused power source or switch box circuit, as long as total load remains within the system’s rating. Always verify your total amp draw before installation to prevent overloading.
Connection Types
- Plug-and-play: Most models include a 12V cigarette lighter adapter for fast, no-tool installation.
- Hardwired setups: Connect directly to your vehicle’s ignition or a dedicated switch panel for permanent installs.
- Integrated toggle switch: Some models feature built-in switches to control power and flash pattern without external wiring.
Battery Considerations for LED Dash Lights
LED dash lights are energy efficient and have a low amp draw, but it's important to power them off when your vehicle is parked for long periods to prevent unnecessary battery drain.
For professional fleets or high use applications, we recommend wiring through an ignition on power source or installing a timer relay. This ensures the lights shut off automatically when the vehicle is off, preserving battery life and avoiding downtime.
SAE, DOT and Legal Compliance
SAE and DOT Standards
Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights are built to exceed SAE J595 Class 1 lighting output and optical standards, with many models tested to perform beyond required lighting output levels for emergency vehicles, beam consistency, and visibility angles.
All of our products are engineered and produced to exceed the compliance requirements of SAE, DOT, ISO, and EU Title 13 standards. Every model is developed with legal performance, safety, and reliability in mind ensuring that our lights meet or surpass the technical criteria trusted by police departments, fire services, EMS fleets, and public safety professionals nationwide.
This level of compliance ensures you’re operating legally and safely no matter your application or vehicle type.
State Color Laws for Emergency Dash Lights
Each U.S. state has its own laws regulating the use of red, blue, amber, white, and green emergency lighting colors. These laws cover where lights can be installed, when they can be used, and who is authorized to use them. Red and blue lights are typically restricted to police, fire, and EMS. Amber lights are widely permitted for tow trucks, security, construction, and utility vehicles. White is often allowed as a supplemental warning or scene light. Green is authorized in some states for volunteer EMS or incident command.
To stay compliant, always check your state’s regulations before installation.
→ Visit our full State-by-State Emergency Vehicle Light Law Guide for detailed, up-to-date information by state.
Who Uses LED Dash Lights and Why?
Law Enforcement
Police departments rely on LED dash lights for both marked and unmarked patrol vehicles. These lights are critical during traffic stops, pursuits, and surveillance. Their compact, interior mounted design makes them ideal for undercover units or low profile unmarked cruisers. With customizable flash patterns and color combinations, officers can enhance visibility while complying with departmental protocols and operational needs.
Fire Trucks and Command Vehicles
Fire departments use dash lights to improve visibility when navigating through intersections and congested areas. Red and white configurations are common for incident command vehicles, brush trucks, and personal vehicles (POVs). For smaller units without roof mounted light bars, dash lights offer a fast, legal, and high impact warning solution.
Ambulances and EMS Fleets
EMS personnel use dash lights in their vehicles, backup rigs, and support units to increase front facing warning coverage. Red lights signal emergency response, while white takedown lighting improves visibility at intersections or during on scene operations. Dash mounted LEDs help these vehicles move quickly and safely through traffic.
Tow Trucks and Roadside Assistance
Tow truck operators depend on amber LED dash lights to alert approaching traffic during recoveries, jump starts, or tire changes. These lights improve roadside safety by drawing attention to vehicles stopped in active lanes or on shoulders. Compact, low profile models preserve driver visibility while ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Construction Vehicles and Road Crews
Construction trucks, pilot vehicles, and work zone supervisors use amber and dual color LED dash lights to warn passing motorists and protect roadside crews. These lights are essential for flagging moving equipment, dump trucks, escort vehicles, and traffic control units. Paired with directional warning traffic light bars or rear LED strobes, dash lights improve safety and visibility across active work zones.
Volunteer Firefighters and EMS Responders
Volunteer emergency responders are one of the largest groups using LED dash lights. Red, green, or white dash lights help volunteer firefighters and EMS safely respond to calls in their personal vehicles, as allowed by local laws. These lights offer high visibility without requiring a full emergency vehicle lighting system and can be easily removed when off duty. Split and dual color dash lights are especially popular among volunteers who serve in multiple roles.
Security Patrol and Private Safety Teams
Private security firms use LED dash lights to signal patrol presence and deter crime. Amber or green lights help mark authority without being mistaken for emergency vehicles. Security teams rely on fast, visible lighting to enhance safety during nighttime patrols, incident response, or parking enforcement.
POVs, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Fleet Vehicles
Many public service workers and fleet operators install LED dash lights in their privately owned vehicles (POVs) to increase visibility without making permanent modifications. Dash lights are easily mounted and removed, making them ideal for shared or dual use vehicles. This allows responders and contractors to operate safely without altering factory bodywork.
Real World Use Cases and Buyer Questions
Can I use this in my Ford F-150?
Yes. Most LED dash lights include universal suction cup mounts or adjustable brackets that fit trucks, SUVs, and standard vehicles like the Ford F-150. Always check the unit’s dimensions and your windshield space to ensure a proper fit and optimal visibility.
Are these lights bright enough for daytime use?
Yes. All Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights use high intensity 3 watt LEDs that are clearly visible in both daylight and nighttime conditions. Our lights are designed to exceed SAE Class 1 brightness standards, making them effective even in direct sunlight.
What color should I choose for a tow truck?
Amber is the legal and industry-standard color for tow trucks and recovery vehicles in all 50 states. Some states also allow white as a secondary color for scene lighting. Red and blue are reserved for emergency responders and are not permitted on tow trucks.
Can I install this without modifying my vehicle?
Yes. Many Extreme Tactical Dynamics dash lights are plug and play and mount with suction cups. No drilling, cutting, or permanent wiring required. This makes them ideal for temporary or shared use vehicles.
Can these lights sync with my visor or grille lights?
Yes. Most of our LED dash lights are sync capable. They can be wired to flash in coordination with visor lights, grille strobes, or other emergency lighting, creating a unified warning display for maximum visibility.
Maintenance Tips for LED Dash Lights
Installation Preparation
Before mounting your LED dash light, clean the windshield or mounting surface using 70% isopropyl alcohol. Avoid glass cleaners with ammonia or residue, as they can weaken suction cup grip. Let the glass fully dry before attaching suction cups or brackets.
Safe Wire Routing
Route all wires behind interior trim panels or along OEM wire paths using zip ties or adhesive clips. Avoid routing wires across airbags, foot pedals, vents, or steering components. If passing through metal, use a rubber grommet to prevent wear or shorts.
Proper Fuse Box Connection
For hardwired installations, connect your dash light’s power wire to an ignition switched fuse using an add-a-circuit adapter. Use a 3 amp fuse to protect the light unit and prevent circuit overload. Always label your connections for future service or upgrades.
Routine Cleaning and Safety Checks
Dust the light housing regularly using a microfiber cloth. Once a month, inspect suction cups, brackets, and mounts to confirm they remain secure. If mounted near open windows, check for cracked seals or vibration wear.
Pattern Sync Testing
If you’re using multiple dash lights in sync, test the flash patterns every few weeks. If lights fall out of sync, reset by powering off all units, then powering them back on together. This ensures uniform strobe patterns across your system.
Complementary Interior Lighting
Visor Light Bars
Visor light bars deliver wide front facing coverage and pair seamlessly with dash lights for maximum intersection visibility. Together, they provide layered lighting ideal for police, fire, and EMS, and Construction vehicles needing strong front end warning without roof mounts.
Grille and Surface Mounted Lights
Grille lights, surface LED strobes, and fender mounted LEDs combine with dash lights to create 360 degree warning visibility. These lights are often synced using control boxes or inline switches for unified flash patterns across your entire vehicle.
Rear Window Lighting
Placing dash lights on the rear deck or in the rear window completes your warning setup. Rear facing lights with flashback shields alert trailing traffic and reduce the risk of rear end collisions. This setup is especially popular with unmarked units and volunteers.
Control Systems
Use control boxes, switch panels, or wireless remotes to manage flash patterns, power, and sync functions across your interior lights. Many plug and play dash lights can be upgraded with advanced control modules for added flexibility without major rewiring.
Warranty Details
Standard Warranty Coverage
All LED dash lights from Extreme Tactical Dynamics come with a 5 year warranty on the LEDs and a 2 year warranty on the components. This includes coverage for LED diodes, internal wiring, switches, and included mounting hardware. If a covered issue occurs during normal use, we will repair or replace the unit or the affected parts at no cost.
Limitations
Warranty coverage does not apply to misuse, incorrect wiring, or improper installation. Products must be used as intended and installed following the included instructions. Damage from environmental exposure or unauthorized modifications is also not covered.
Support and Resources
Direct Support
Since 2005, our team has supported departments, contractors, and first time buyers with real time product guidance. We’re here to help you find the right emergency vehicle lighting for your needs.
Customer Resource Center
Our Resource Center includes:
- Flash pattern demos on individual product pages
- Product comparison charts dash light buyer’s guide
- Real world usage tips and blog articles covering police, fire, EMS, tow, and construction
Helpful Links
Calls to Action
Need help choosing a dash light? Call our team or use live chat for same day answers. Our staff is trained to match the right product to your vehicle and legal zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are LED dash lights legal for civilian use?
Amber LED dash lights are generally legal for civilian use in all 50 states. Red and blue are restricted to authorized emergency vehicles. Always check your state’s lighting laws before installation.
Can LED dash lights be mounted without drilling?
Yes. Most units come with suction cups or adjustable brackets that allow secure, no drill installation on windshields, dashboards, or rear decks.
What’s the difference between dash lights and visor lights?
Dash lights are smaller and sit lower on the windshield near the dash. Visor lights span the width of the top of the windshield and offer broader visibility, especially in multi lane traffic.
Are LED dash lights bright enough during the day?
Yes. Our dash lights use high output 3 watt LEDs and precision optics to stay visible in full daylight, even in direct sun or glare.
Do LED dash lights have multiple flash patterns?
Yes. Most models include over 30 flash patterns. They also feature pattern memory and sync compatibility with other lights. Newer units are now offering dual memory function.
Support and Installation Resources
Direct Technical Support
Our team has been outfitting emergency vehicles since 2005. We offer real time product support by phone, email, or live chat Monday through Friday during business hours.
Customer Resource Library
All product pages include helpful resources such as:
- Flash pattern demonstration videos
- Application based buyer guides
- Comparison charts in the product category pages
- Lighting law articles in our blog
Need Help Choosing?
Need help selecting the right dash light for your vehicle or application? Our trained support team is here to help. Call or use live chat for quick, expert answers about installation, compatibility, legal usage, or pattern matching.