In this guide you will learn how to wire 12v Campervan lights (campervan LED strip lights, LED puck lights, and LED lamps). You will even be able to control the campervan LED strip lights on your phone via bluetooth! By the end you will have a beautifully illuminated van!
I’m Shane, a van conversion professional dedicated to helping people transform ordinary vans into homes on wheels. I've authored Roaming Home, and teach The Van Conversion Course, guiding many people through their van builds. I also write The Van Conversion Newsletter, where I share practical tips and insights. After completing two van builds and living on the road full-time since 2020, I’m excited to share my expertise with you.
Now let's jump in and see how to wire 12v campervan lights!
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Index
Note: Before we hop in, you will definitely want to grab yourself a wiring diagram which you can get for free by signing up to The Van Conversion Newsletter
Supplies list 🛒
 | |
 | |
 | For connecting wires |
 | For splicing one wire into another |
 | For protecting wire connections after crimping |
 | For compressing heat shrinks on crimp connections |
 | |
 | Dimmer switch for the roof lights |
 | |
 | Roof lights |
 | Bluetooth-controlled LED lights |
 | For wiring strip lights in your van |
 | For crimping wires |
 | For stripping wires |
 | Cable ties and adhesive mounts For sticking wires to roof |
 | To connect puck lights together |
What is an LED light?
An LED (light emitting diode) is a semiconductor that emits light when electricity flows through it. Electrons in the semiconductor combine, releasing energy in the form of photons. The colour of the light is determined by the energy required for electrons to cross the band gap of the semiconductor.
LEDs have many benefits over traditional incandescent lights, including: lower power consumption, longer lifespan, robustness, smaller size, and faster switching. However, for all their benefits, LEDs are generally restricted to low voltage and DC. This makes them perfect for van conversion lights!
What types of LED lights are used in campervans?
There are three types of LED lights typically used in campervans, those are:
In this article we will look at wiring led lights to a 12v battery for each of the three types above. We will also examine how to wire the campervan LED lights to a switch and the 12v light switch wiring diagram.
LED Efficiency & Power Consumption Data
Let’s take a detailed look at the key factors behind LED efficiency and how it impacts your campervan’s energy consumption.
Power Consumption of LEDs in Campervans
The primary advantage of LED lighting is its low power consumption. LEDs typically require 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs while delivering the same light output; an LED produces around 80-100 lumens per watt, whereas traditional incandescent bulbs may only produce 15 lumens per watt. In a campervan, where every watt counts due to limited battery capacity, this energy savings is critical for extending battery life and reducing the frequency of recharges.
To give you a practical idea, here’s a comparison of typical LED light types used in campervans and their power consumption:
LED Light Type | Power Consumption (Watts) | Lumen Output | Energy Use Over 8 Hours (Wh) |
LED Puck Light | 3W | 200-300 lumens | 24 Wh |
LED Strip Light (1 meter) | 7W | 600-800 lumens | 56 Wh |
LED Reading Lamp | 5W | 400-500 lumens | 40 Wh |
For context: If you’re running a 3W LED puck light for 8 hours, it will consume 24Wh (watt-hours). For comparison, an equivalent incandescent bulb would consume 240Wh for the same duration, ten times more power!
LEDs and Campervan Battery Performance
In a typical campervan electrical system, lighting is usually powered by leisure batteries (commonly 12V batteries). Because LEDs draw very little current, they help conserve battery life.
For instance:
A 100Ah (amp-hour) battery can theoretically provide 1200Wh of energy (12V x 100Ah). Running 10 LED puck lights (3W each) for 8 hours will consume 240Wh of energy, which is only 20% of the total battery capacity. This leaves you with plenty of energy for other appliances.
I recommend you check out our battery sizing calculator to pick the perfect battery for your needs.
This efficiency is one of the reasons why LED lights are perfect for campervans, where off-grid living often depends on the solar and battery system's ability to provide consistent energy.
LED Lifespan and Durability in Campervans
Another major advantage of LED lights is their lifespan. The average LED light can last between 25,000 to 50,000 hours, compared to only 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs. In campervans, where maintenance opportunities can be limited and convenience is key, this longevity is invaluable.
Example: If you run your campervan LED lights for 5 hours a day, they can last up to 27 years (based on 50,000 hours). This dramatically reduces the need for replacements, making LEDs a more sustainable choice in the long run.
Voltage and Efficiency Considerations
When your electrical system comes under high load, such as turning on your inverter, you may notice your lights flicker - this is due to voltage drop.
The low energy draw of LEDs means they can handle moderate voltage drops without affecting performance, but for optimal efficiency, keeping your wiring short and choosing the appropriate wire gauge helps minimize voltage drop (use this voltage drop calculator).
LEDs in Solar-Powered Campervans
For those relying on solar power, LEDs are a game-changer. Because solar setups typically provide low power outputs, the minimal wattage requirements of LED lights allow you to maximize your solar energy.
For example:
A standard 100W solar panel can generate around 400Wh of energy on a sunny day. If you're running 10 LED strip lights (7W each) for 4 hours, that will consume only 280Wh—leaving 120Wh for other uses like charging devices or running a water pump.
This makes LEDs a critical component of an efficient off-grid power system, allowing you to stretch your solar energy further.
I recommend you check out our solar panel guide for more information. You can also use our solar panel calculator to figure out how much solar wattage you will need for your van.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability of LEDs
Beyond their electrical efficiency, LEDs are far more environmentally friendly than traditional lighting. They are free of hazardous materials like mercury (commonly found in CFLs) and produce far less heat, which reduces the cooling load on your campervan in warm climates. This, in turn, lowers the overall energy consumption for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the van.
Furthermore, due to their long lifespan and lower energy consumption, LEDs help reduce the carbon footprint of your campervan setup. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy estimated that widespread LED adoption could cut lighting energy use by 50% by 2030, resulting in major reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Heat Management in LEDs
While LEDs are highly efficient and produce much less heat than traditional bulbs, they do still generate some heat, mainly in their internal components. In a confined space like a campervan, it’s important to ensure that this heat can dissipate properly, though it's not typically a major concern due to the low wattage of most campervan LED setups.
Most LEDs used in campervans, such as puck lights and strip lights, come with built-in heat sinks that effectively manage the heat they generate. As long as you choose high-quality LEDs and avoid installing them in fully enclosed, airtight spaces, the heat management will largely take care of itself. Simply allowing a bit of airflow around the fixtures will help ensure that your LEDs run efficiently and last a long time.
Wiring 12v campervan lights in series vs. parallel
A puck light has two wires extending from it: a positive and a negative.
There are many different ways to wire up puck lights, and while there is no one right way, wiring lights in parallel is generally preferred over wiring them in series.
There are two problems with wiring puck lights in series (daisy chained):
If one light breaks, every light after that one will also turn off.
Wiring LED lights in series can cause different lumens to be output from the puck lights. The first light will be the brightest and the last light will be the weakest. The effect is amplified as we add more lights.
One nifty device you can use to wire up all lights in parallel is a DC 8-way splitter (if you have 8 puck lights). It connects 8 wires into 1. You can just snip off the heads and wire it up to the lights.
However, while wiring campervan LED lights in parallel is preferred, it can cause a lot of extra wiring to be needed. Because of this, most people will opt for a mixture of parallel and series wiring.
Campervan lights wiring diagram
In the previous campervan lights wiring diagram, the two LED puck lights in each set are wired in series. But the sets themselves are wired in Parallel.
For example, if the first light of the first set blows, the last two sets will still stay ON, but the second light in the first set will turn OFF.
As we can see from the diagram, we will be installing a dimmable switch for the puck lights. We install this after the fuse box. You can learn all about fuses and fuse sizing in this guide.
Note: You will want to purchase some dimmable LED puck lights; we will be looking at how to wire them to a 12V dimmer switch.
How to wire campervan LED puck lights
Step 1: Lay the cabling
Laying wiring is one of the very first things you do in a van conversion; before touching any insulation or carpentry.
Before laying the cable you need to know where in the van you are going to put:
The fuse box
The switch panel
The 12V lights
After you have decided where these things will go, go ahead and lay the wire. 0.8 mm² (18 AWG) wiring should do the job just fine (though you should do your own wiring measurements). Some people choose to run the wiring through conduit / split looming to keep it neat, others will keep the wires exposed. You can attach the wires to the metal surface of the van with cable ties and cable tie adhesive mounts.
It is common to install 6-8 LED puck lights in the ceiling of the van. We run a Positive (red) and Negative (black) wire out to all the lights.
We can use T-tap connectors in two places in order to wire the puck lights per the wiring diagram provided. The T-tap connectors will allow us to wire the LED lights in parallel.
You can learn all about how to cut, crimp, and use T-tap connectors in this article on crimping.
Step 2: Wire the LED puck lights
We can attach the puck lights to the wire using crimp connectors.
Strip back the wire insulator half an inch on both the puck light and the wire
Add a male crimp connector to one wire and a and female blade crimp connector to the other wire
Crimp the connectors down with a crimping tool
Add a heat shrink on top of the connection to insulate the connection (Only do this after you have cladded/panelled your van are ready for the final installation)
Note: In a set of two puck lights in series, the negative of the first puck light runs into the positive of the second puck light.
Step 3: Wire the switch
Most people will want a 12V dimmer switch (like the one shown below) rather than a simple ON-OFF switch - so that's what we will look at here.
12V light switch wiring is quite simple: Positive and Negative IN (from the battery) are on the one side of the dimmer switch, the Positive and Negative OUT (to the puck lights) are on the other side of the dimmer!
Step 4#: Wire the switch to the fuse box
From the switch, the Positive and Negative IN will run to the 12V fuse box, which in turn runs to the bus bars and on to the leisure batteries.
How to wire LED strip lights in a campervan
The second type of LED light we can wire in are campervan LED strip lights. I have two sets of LED strip lights in my van, wired to turn on in unison. I also have a bluetooth dongle that allows me to control the colour and brightness of the strip lights from my phone. So, let's look at how to wire that system up.
Like the puck lights, we will run positive and negative wiring from our fuse box out to where we expect the campervan LED strip lights to be.
How to wire 12v led lights to a switch
Step 1: Stick the strip lights
The strip lights have an adhesive strip along the back which allows us to stick them to almost any surface. I chose to install mine under the overhead cabinets.
Step 2: Install a switch
We install a switch (non-dimmable) after the fuse box and then wire up the strip lights in parallel.
Step 3: Cut the strip lights to length
You will need to cut the campervan LED strip lights to the desired length, which you can do at one of the cut points on the strip.
Step 4: Add strip connectors
After you have cut the LED strip you will need to add an LED strip connector to the end of it so that it can be wired up. These strip light connectors can easily be bought online.
Step 5: Install the connector dongle
We will be adding a bluetooth dongle to the end of each LED strip light so that we can control the colour and brightness from either a remote control, or from our phone. Plug the bluetooth dongle into the strip connector we just added at the end of each LED strip.
Step 6: Wire the Bluetooth dongle
Snip the end of the Bluetooth dongle off and rewire it. Run the Positive end to the switch, and run the negative end back to the fuse box. We can splice the Positives and Negatives of multiple strip lights together with T-tap connectors; this means the strip lights are wired in parallel.
How to wire LED lamps
I installed two LED lamps (12V campervan lights) in my campervan; one in the kitchen, and one by the bed for reading. These are very straight-forward to wire up.
Run wire from the fuse box out to where the LED side lamps will be. We are wiring these lights in parallel, so splice the wires together using T-tap connectors near the switch panel.
We can then simply connect each side lamp to the wire using quick disconnects. Be sure to heat shrink the connection afterwards to secure it.
Advanced Bluetooth and Smart Lighting Integration for Campervans
Integrating Bluetooth and smart lighting in your campervan can elevate your lighting setup from simple illumination to a fully customizable, interactive experience. With smart lighting systems, you can control the brightness, color, scheduling, and even lighting effects right from your smartphone or through voice assistants like Google Home or Amazon Alexa. These advanced systems not only add convenience but also allow for creative uses of lighting that can significantly enhance your living space on the road.
Here’s how you can make the most of smart lighting in a campervan:
Customizable Lighting Zones
One of the most effective ways to use smart lighting is by creating customizable zones in your van.
You can divide the interior into separate areas, such as:
Sleeping area: Set soft, warm lighting for reading or winding down.
Kitchen: Use brighter, cooler lights to enhance visibility while cooking.
Work/Relaxation zone: Adjustable lighting for daytime work or evening relaxation.
With smart lighting systems like Philips Hue or LIFX, you can control each zone independently via Bluetooth or a smartphone app. This setup allows you to adjust the mood and functionality of each space with the swipe of a finger, making your small campervan feel much more dynamic.
You could also do this with individual strip light circuits set to different colors and tones.
Use Bluetooth control to switch between different colors for various purposes:
Warm whites for relaxing in the evening.
Cool whites or bright colors for energizing morning routines.
Color-changing effects to create fun, party-like atmospheres when parked with friends.
You can even match the color temperature of your lights to outdoor conditions, setting them to mimic daylight or sunset hues, helping regulate your circadian rhythm while living off-grid.
Automated Lighting Schedules
Smart lighting apps let you create custom schedules for your campervan lights, which is especially useful when transitioning between different lighting needs throughout the day.
For example:
Automatically dim your lights at night to wind down before sleep.
Gradually brighten the lights in the morning to act as a gentle wake-up call.
Set "arrival lighting" so the van lights up when you return after dark.
By scheduling your lights, you not only add convenience but also reduce energy consumption, ensuring that your leisure batteries last longer, especially when relying on solar power.
Voice-Controlled Lighting
For added convenience, integrate voice control into your smart lighting setup using Amazon Alexa or Google Home.
By pairing your smart lights with a portable voice assistant, you can control your campervan’s lighting entirely hands-free:
"Alexa, turn off the kitchen lights."
"Hey Google, set the bedroom lights to 50% brightness."
This is perfect for late nights when you’re already in bed or during busy times when your hands are full. Voice control is especially useful in a compact campervan space where accessing physical switches might be inconvenient.
Bluetooth-Controlled Outdoor Lighting
Extend your lighting control to the outside of your campervan. With Bluetooth-controlled exterior lights, you can easily illuminate the surrounding area when camping in darker locations or remote sites. These lights can be installed under the awning, around the perimeter of the van, or even at the entry points for added security and convenience.
Imagine:
Motion-activated smart lights that brighten when you step outside.
Adjustable outdoor LEDs that help create a relaxing evening ambiance around your campfire.
Smart outdoor lights not only add functionality but also boost security by allowing you to light up the area if you hear a noise outside.
For a more advanced setup you could integrate door sensors that automatically switch on lights when you open the campervan doors—perfect for nighttime arrivals.
Automatic lighting when the door opens
Later in this article I will describe how you can wire up your lights so they turn on when you open the doors. Pretty cool, huh?!?
Geofencing for Auto Lighting Control
Some smart lighting systems offer geofencing capabilities, meaning your lights can turn on or off based on your location. For example, as you approach your campervan after a day of hiking, your Bluetooth lights can automatically switch on when your phone gets within range. This is a great feature for improving convenience and safety, especially when returning to your van after dark.
Optimizing Lighting for Campervan Interiors
When it comes to designing your campervan’s lighting system, proper placement and lighting optimization are key to creating a comfortable, functional, and energy-efficient space. Whether you're cooking, relaxing, or working inside the van, strategically placed lighting can greatly enhance your vanlife experience.
Here's how to optimize lighting for each part of your campervan interior:
Layered Lighting for Different Zones
A well-lit campervan incorporates layered lighting, meaning you use different types of lights for specific purposes. This ensures that no matter where you are or what you’re doing, the lighting will be suited to your needs.
Ambient Lighting: This is your general lighting, which fills the van with soft, even illumination. LED strip lights along the ceiling or around the walls work well for this. Use warm white (2700K-3000K) lights to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Task Lighting: For specific activities like cooking, reading, or working, you need brighter, focused lighting. Under-cabinet LED lights in the kitchen area or adjustable reading lamps near the bed provide ample brightness where it's needed most. Task lighting should be cooler (4000K-5000K) for better visibility.
Accent Lighting: This type of lighting is used to highlight certain areas or create ambiance. Use color-changing LED strip lights under cabinets or along the van floor to give the space character and depth. This type of lighting is purely decorative but can be a great way to set the mood for relaxing evenings.
My take:
I hate looking into campervans and seeing a harsh white light illuminating the place. And yet this is what I see in most vans! I promise you, warmer color LEDs are far nicer, and far cosier.
Positioning for Maximum Efficiency
The placement of your lights can drastically improve the functionality of your campervan. Here are some tips for optimizing light placement:
Ceiling Lights: Install LED puck lights or strip lights in the ceiling, evenly spaced to provide general illumination throughout the living area. Place the lights near the middle or along both sides of the ceiling for even light distribution.
Under-Cabinet Lighting: In the kitchen, under-cabinet lighting is essential for preparing meals. LED strip lights under shelves or cabinets offer focused task lighting without casting shadows on the workspace.
Bed Area: Use reading lamps with adjustable heads near the bed for a convenient light source when winding down at night. Position them at head height, so you can easily adjust them without leaving bed.
Maximizing Natural Light
In addition to artificial lighting, maximizing natural light is key to keeping your campervan bright and welcoming during the day. Large windows, skylights, or roof vents allow sunlight to pour in, reducing the need for powered lighting during the day.
To make the most of natural light:
Install large side windows or skylights to flood your van with daylight.
Use light-colored walls or reflective surfaces to bounce light around the van, making the space feel larger and brighter.
Use blackout curtains or shades for privacy and control over when natural light enters.
12v led lights flickering problem: How to fix it
Sometimes when the inverter (or other appliances) draws a heavy load (eg. to power a space heater), you will encounter a 12V LED lights flickering problem in the campervan. A larger, high quality pure sine wave inverter will help solve this problem. If the problem persists, you might consider running the inverter directly from the leisure batteries, rather than from the shared bus bar. This adds a degree of separation from the 12V appliances.
What size cable for 12V LED lights
To calculate the size (diameter) of wire needed in a system we need three variables:
The length of the wire (distance to the appliance AND back)
The amps the wire will be carrying (ie. the amp rating of the appliance)
Acceptable voltage drop
Note: Voltage drop occurs when the voltage at the end of a section of cable is lower than at the beginning. Voltage drop normally occurs when there is resistance in current flow usually due to cables or connectors. For critical circuits we should use the value ‘3%’, for non-critical circuits (eg. LED lights), we can use the value ‘10%’. Here is a useful voltage drop calculator.
With these three pieces of information we can consult the diagram below. Given the length of wire, amperage, and circuit type, it will tell us the gauge of wire we will need. Alternatively, we have built a useful wire sizing calculator which is quick and easy to use.
You can learn all about wire sizing in this guide. In most van conversions, you will use 1.5mm² (16 AWG) for 12V LED lights - though I encourage you to do your own wire sizing calculations.
What fuse to use for 12V LED lights
After you have calculated what size cable is needed, you will need to find out what fuse to use for 12v led lights.
We use blade fuses for 12V LED lights; they are installed in a 12V blade fuse box.
The rule of thumb in fuse sizing is that you should 'always select a fuse size to protect the wire according to its rating.' However, most amateur campervan builders should always size wires larger than they think they need. Most of us are not looking for maximum cost/weight efficiency, we are looking for maximum safety.
So, to calculate the fuse size, we should calculate the total amp rating of the appliance the wire is feeding and add on a 25% buffer. When we talk about the 'size' of a fuse, we mean its 'rated amperage' as mentioned above.
Example: Let's say we have eight 12V puck lights which are 3W each. The amp of each light would be 3W ÷ 12V = 0.25A. We have eight of them so: 0.25A × 8 = 2A. We want to give ourselves a 25% buffer, so we will choose a 2.5A fuse for this system.
You can learn more about campervan fuses and breakers in this article.
Safety and Legal Requirements for Campervan Lighting Installations (NEC and BS 7671)
When installing lighting systems in campervans, adherence to safety standards is critical to avoid hazards such as electrical fires, shorts, and improper wiring. Two major electrical standards guide these installations: the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the United States and BS 7671 in the UK.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential requirements from each for lighting installations in campervans.
National Electrical Code (NEC) - United States
The NEC sets out clear guidelines for all electrical installations, including those in vehicles like campervans. For lighting, particular attention is given to DC systems (commonly 12V) and AC shore power connections.
Overcurrent Protection (Article 240):
All lighting circuits must be protected by appropriately rated fuses or circuit breakers to prevent overcurrent that could cause overheating and fires. For LED lighting circuits (12V), ensure that fuses are rated to match the current draw of your LED system, typically ranging from 2A to 10A, depending on the number of lights.
Wire Sizing and Voltage Drop (Article 310):
Proper wire sizing is essential to avoid excessive voltage drop in low-voltage 12V lighting circuits. The NEC specifies that wire gauge should be chosen based on the length of the wire run and the current draw of the lights. For example, a longer run may require a thicker gauge (e.g., 16 or 14 AWG) to ensure that the lights receive sufficient power without dimming or overheating.
Grounding (Article 250):
All 12V DC lighting circuits should be properly grounded to the vehicle chassis. The NEC requires that grounding connections be secure and corrosion-resistant to ensure they remain effective over time.
Wet and Damp Locations (Article 410):
If lighting is installed in areas where it could be exposed to moisture (such as near doors or in kitchens), it must meet specific damp-location requirements. For example, lighting fixtures used in these areas must be moisture-resistant and designed to operate safely in such environments.
AC Lighting (Shore Power):
For 120V AC systems (like those connected to shore power), Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are required to protect against electrical shock, especially in areas exposed to water (e.g., kitchen or bathroom). Ensure any AC-powered lighting connected to shore power follows these rules to prevent accidents.
BS 7671 - UK Wiring Regulations
BS 7671 governs all electrical installations in the UK, including those in campervans. It provides a detailed framework for safe electrical work, with specific sections relevant to lighting installations.
Circuit Protection (Section 433):
Like the NEC, BS 7671 mandates that all lighting circuits be protected by appropriately rated fuses or circuit breakers. For 12V lighting, select a fuse or breaker that matches the total current load of the system. For example, an 8A fuse may be appropriate for a low-voltage lighting system with a modest number of LED lights.
Cable Sizing (Section 524):
The standard specifies that cables must be sized to prevent excessive voltage drop. In the case of 12V lighting, voltage drop is particularly important because even small losses can significantly affect performance. To comply with BS 7671, make sure that your cables are correctly rated (e.g., 1.5mm² (16 AWG) or larger depending on the length and load) to ensure that lights operate efficiently without dimming.
DC and AC Separation (Section 528):
BS 7671 requires that DC and AC wiring be kept separate to prevent interference and ensure safety. For campervan lighting, this means that your 12V DC LED circuits must be installed separately from any 240V AC circuits (such as those connected to shore power).
Earthing (Section 543):
Similar to NEC’s grounding rules, BS 7671 emphasizes proper earthing (grounding) of all electrical systems, including lighting circuits. In 12V systems, ensure that the negative terminal of the system is securely connected to the vehicle chassis. For AC systems, all lighting fixtures must be properly earthed to protect against electrical faults.
IP Ratings for Lighting in Damp Areas (Section 701):
For areas where lights may be exposed to moisture (e.g., around entryways or in bathrooms), BS 7671 mandates the use of lighting fixtures with appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) ratings. For damp areas, choose fixtures rated IP44 or higher, indicating that they are protected against moisture and splashing water.
Automatically Trigger Campervan Lights when the door opens
Imagine how cool it would be if the lights turned on when you opened the door. It could trigger interior lights turning on, or an exterior floodlight above the back doors, in case you are loading anything in the back.
You can do this in two ways:
Install door sensors
Tap into the existing "courtesy light circuit"
Turn on lights with door sensors
Integrating door sensors that automatically switch on lights when you open the doors is one of the ultimate bells and whistles. It could trigger interior lights turning on, or an exterior floodlight above the back doors, in case you are loading anything in the back.
Step 1. Choose the Right Door Sensors
You’ll need magnetic door sensors or reed switches, which are commonly used for smart lighting systems. These sensors detect when the door opens or closes, triggering the lights.
Look for sensors compatible with 12V systems, as these will easily integrate with your van’s electrical setup. Some popular options include Z-Wave sensors (for smart systems) or basic magnetic switches that you can wire directly.
Step 2. Select the Type of Lighting
Decide which lights you want to activate when the door opens. Common choices include:
Overhead LED lights in the living space.
Step lights or under-cabinet lights for better visibility when entering.
Exterior lights near the sliding or rear doors for added security.
Step 3. Wiring the Door Sensors
Step 3.1: Mount the sensor. Attach the magnetic door sensor to the frame of the door and the magnet piece to the door itself. When the door opens, the magnet moves away from the sensor, breaking the circuit, which will trigger the lights.
Step 3.2: Run the wiring. Connect the reed switch (door sensor) to your 12V lighting circuit. You’ll need:
Positive (red) wire from the sensor running to the positive terminal of the light.
Negative (black) wire connected to the vehicle’s ground or negative bus bar.
You can wire the sensor in series with the light circuit so that when the door opens, the switch closes the circuit, turning on the lights.
Step 4. Integrating with Smart Lighting Systems (Optional)
If you want to integrate this into a Bluetooth-controlled or smart system, you can use Z-Wave or Zigbee door sensors compatible with a smart hub (such as SmartThings or Philips Hue Bridge).
Step 4.1: Pair the door sensor with your smart hub. Most smart systems come with apps that let you configure the sensor to trigger lights.
Step 4.2: Set up an automation rule in the app to turn on specific lights when the door opens and turn them off when the door closes.
Power Considerations
Make sure the sensor can handle the 12V power supply used in most campervans. Many sensors are designed for home use with higher voltage systems, so check the voltage rating. Alternatively, you can use a step-down converter to regulate the power if needed.
Ensure your lighting circuit is connected to the leisure battery (not the vehicle battery) so that opening the door while parked doesn’t drain the main battery.
Installation Tips
Position the sensor carefully so that it doesn’t interfere with the door’s movement or become misaligned over time. It should be mounted securely on a surface where the door and the frame meet.
Test the system after installation by opening and closing the door to ensure the sensor reliably activates the lights every time.
Waterproof sensors: For exterior door sensors (e.g., sliding or rear doors), consider using waterproof or weather-resistant sensors, especially if your van will be exposed to rain or damp conditions.
Override switch: Install a manual override switch inside the van that allows you to disable the door sensor lighting system when you don’t need it.
Turn on campervan lights using the courtesy light system
Modern vehicles have a built-in courtesy light circuit connected to the door sensors. These sensors send a signal when a door is opened, triggering the dome or cabin lights. You can tap into this circuit to control additional lights in your campervan, such as overhead LEDs or step lights.
Step 1. Locate the Door Sensor Wires
In vehicles like the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter, the door switches are already wired to the interior lighting circuit. The van’s electrical system uses negative switching—when the door is closed, the circuit is open (no ground connection), but when the door is opened, the switch closes and completes the circuit, turning on the lights.
You’ll need to find the wiring for the door switch. This is usually behind the interior light (if you have one) or connected to the body control module (BCM).
The body control unit for my Ford Transit MK7 is underneath the bonnet (hood)
Step 2. Tap Into the Courtesy Light Circuit
You can use a relay to control your additional campervan lights. The relay will be triggered by the signal from the door switch, turning on your new lights in sync with the van’s interior lights.
Here’s how to wire it:
Locate the positive and negative leads from the existing courtesy light circuit (connected to the door sensor).
Use a relay (e.g., a 12V automotive relay) to switch your LED lights on. Connect the trigger terminal of the relay to the courtesy light circuit.
IMPORTANT: The relay’s output will connect to your additional lights, and the power supply will come from your leisure battery or electrical system.
Example relay wiring:
Pin 30: Connect to your campervan’s 12V leisure battery (positive).
Pin 85: Connect to the ground.
Pin 86: Connect to the door sensor wire (or courtesy light wire) from the van’s door system.
Pin 87: Connect to the positive terminal of your new LED lights.
Step 3. Using the Body Control Module (BCM)
Modern vans have a Body Control Module (BCM) that manages the electrical systems, including the courtesy lights and door sensors. You can access these circuits and use them to trigger additional lights.
Consult the Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter wiring diagram (available in service manuals) to locate the appropriate pin for the door sensor within the BCM. You can connect your additional lights or relay to this pin, so when the door opens, it triggers the BCM to turn on your campervan lights as well.
Considerations:
Power Source: Ensure that the additional lights you add are powered by the leisure battery, not the van’s starter battery, to avoid draining it when parked.
Fuse Protection: Use an appropriate fuse in your circuit to protect the new wiring and lights.
Adjusting Behavior: If you want to turn off the automatic lights at times (for instance, when camping), consider installing a manual override switch to disable the lights triggered by the doors.
You can also check forums or service manuals for your specific van model to find the exact wiring diagrams to simplify the process.
Conclusion
And that's about it! Everything you should know about 12v campervan lights!
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If you're looking for some guidance with your van conversion, you might be interested in our book Roaming Home, or in our online course The Van Conversion Mastery Course. You'll learn directly from me how to convert a van into your dream home - no prior experience needed!
Until next time,
Shane ✌️