EventHorizon

So picked up these LEDs from Walmart and installed them in the front map/interior lights. They seam to work normal except for the fact that they don't turn off completely. When they turn off they dim in what I would call "steps" and then 2 of the LEDs per bulb stay on very dim. Only noticed it tonight as it's the first time I drove in the dark. On while driving and stay on when I lock it too.

Is there always slight power going to the map lights that is not enough to light a filament bulb but could just make an LED glow a little?? Do I need to find an LED that has a small resistor built in to trick the circuit into thinking there is a regular bulb there??

Anyone have a similar problem??? You might, go check your lights in the dark.


UPDATE: Ok just to make it even more complicated. They do turn off after a while. Locked my truck and then went out an hour later and they were off. Unlocked it to turn the lights on and relocked it they dim and stay on for about a minute then go off. Started then turned it off and locked it, waited 5 mins and they didn't go off but they were off this morning.


It's almost like a capacitor is getting charged or something. I'll have to check on a long drive if they go off while driving.

smencinias

i dont know what im talking about, but ive read that since LED's use such little power, ANY amout of current will allow them to be "on". just what i've read.

CCR90

An LED typically only requires around .5 to .7 of a volt to forward bias it and light it up. Having said that, I have led's in my dome and never noticed them staying on slightly. The dimming in steps it does.