LED change problem

[Saulens]

Hey,

Maybe someone can help. I want to change LED diodes for my BMW from red original to orange color ones.

When i remove original led all circuit wont work. After i solder new standart 5mm led it also wont work, but if i solder onto original diode contacts new orange led contacts it works. So maybe ideas what type LEDs to use or what to do?

 

[Allicstocks]

Hi Saulens,

Dont work because this are automotive special diodes(Not Standard),the better way is try to find original Diodes datasheet,hope this be helpfull for you.

Best Regards!

 

[ClydeCrashKop]

Did you have the + / - polarity right on the orange LED?

 

[Saulens]

Yes i understand this also, but iam more into mech. parts so need advice for this electric side. So maybe possible to measure or how to find its special amp or voltage diodes? On 1st picture u see when i solder onto original led both works well

 

[Saulens]

Anyone?

 

[rjenkinsgb]

I'd guess you need high power / high current rated LEDs rather than generic ones.
There are thousands of types with a vast range of ratings.

Even with appropriate current rated ones, orange will generally have a slightly higher operating voltage than red, so when they are all changed it may not work; the only way to know is try them, one at a time.
eg. Some typical voltage ranges for different colour LEDs that all have similar low current ratings:

The PCB looks to have fairly sophisticated control and monitoring circuitry so it may well be that any mismatch in the LED characteristics is seen as a fault and it shuts down.

ps.
Are you aware of your local regulations re. light colours? In some countries it is illegal to change from the manufacturers original colours, or at least you need to notify your insurance that you have a "modified vehicle"..

 

[Saulens]

It's US spec lights i need to change it to orange (EU regulations) it's pretty expensive to buy new ones so i have chance to experiment first. So basically try different type of LEDs.

 

[rjenkinsgb]

OK on the colours.

Can you measure what current an unmodified LED lamp assembly draws from the 12V supply?
If there are no inductors on the board (I could not see any in the photos) the current regulator is likely linear and the input current the same as the LED current.

That would be a good starting point to help find which LEDs could be suitable for the conversion.

 

[Saulens]

Hey sorry this quarantine stops everything. It shows 1,956-2V on contacts and it dont show mA. So it could be just right Volatge diode to find?

 

[Saulens]

Any advice???

 

[AtomSoft]

Can you take a picture of the TOP of the LED like looking down into it. Is there an IC inside?I doubt there is anything special to be honest. If anything try replacing all leds on 1 board. Maybe they have to pull equal current? Im not sure but makes no sense to be honest.