Thinking about getting a footwell light but not sure if I should go with the Official Ones, or just get some LED's. Also, can someone who has these give their opinion?

As for installation, I have searched around the forum and think I have an idea

 

I have the JDM OEM, and they are really simple to install, just run them and tap into a wire. It's very detailed instructions. They are really bright and are timed with the door shutting.

 

They are $100 bucks! Wouldn't the money be better spent on other items? Clear side markers? New whiter bulbs for the fog lights? Synthetic diff and trans fluids?

 

I've had both the OEM and aftermarket footwell lights. I didn't like the OEM ones and at the time, I didn't have them wired to the parking lights. Well I totaled my first RX-8 and after I bought my second I found a great DIY for wiring the footwell lights into the lights activated by the stalk on the steering wheel. I do like the 9 inch Red minis I got from Streetglow ($42.99) and they are wired directly so they come on when I turn on the driving lights.

 

I have the OEM footwell lights and love 'em! It's weird, but when I ordered 'em I thought "this is just a little nothing accessory, maybe it'll class up the interior a bit" but now that I have them, I really like them a lot—even though it's a subtle little thing. They're pretty easy to install with fairly clear instructions (though make sure you find the "right" red/blue wire to tap into—there are two). The effect is very cool—love the way they slowly fade off—and they make you feel like you're sitting in a much more expensive car. I like 'em so much, I think they should've come with the car—guess Mazda was looking for ways to save $$$. Personally I tend to prefer OEM stuff because it's usually well thought out and "integrates" with the car real well—the footwell lights are no exception. Aside for the high cost, I see no reason to DIY instead. Highly recommended.

 

Does the dealership carry these or should I get them online?

 

I usually order stuff from Tommy at Rosenthal Mazda - their prices are usually lower than the dealer, and it comes right to your house…
http://www.finishlineperformance.com...n&key=RX081031

 

he charges 10 bucks more for it, and 1 buck more for touch up paint

 

I bought OEM lamps on ebay for ~40 bucks. Installed them myself using the 'Rewire DIY' here, and love them. Not so bright that you even notice them while driving, but they really look nice. From what I read here b4 installing, you can get brighter & more color options using LEDs and switches, and prlly do so cheaper. But anything brighter than the OEM would prlly bother me while driving. Mostly I think brighter would catch the tint at the mirror and distract me, since when I first put in the OEM I DID notice the reflection at the mirror (windows closed @ 20% tint).

I'm right around the corner if you need help or have q's. The first try I had a little trouble, and then 2 days later when I had more time I felt like an idiot b/c it seemed so simple.

 

I've been an 8 (Not mine) with blue LED's in the footwell and it looked pretty nice. I don't know where he got them- probably off EBay. I've seen them for $27 w/shipping. You can get two for $38 w/shipping. I was going to put some in the footwell and under the front seats, but I decided it wasn't needed right now and held off.

 

What would you say is the closest to the official ones? Also, i want these only when the door is open, which i assume is just a matter of finding the right wire

 

The instructions that come with the Mazda lamps are for the setup you want - they are connected to the courtesy light (door & dome) that go off after 15 seconds or so. The Rewire DIY is to go from that setup to the parking light setup.

 

I think I'd prefer the lights to go off after a little while... I've been thinking about getting these but now sure how I'd feel with the lights on.

 

Pics!!!!

 

pics = +1 post count. here you go!

 

Jedi - I don't even notice them while driving at night. The red reflects a little on the tint at the corners where the side mirrors are, but it was only noticable for a day or 3.

 

damn, I need a better camera.

 

That's my buddy's camera. He does photography as a hobby. (think dmp)

He's coming along for the NE Spring Run, so the pics should be sweet. Tho I haven't mentioned that in the Spring Run thread. Should be a nice surprise once he's done playing w/the pics he takes.

 

Still think it's better with the OEM setup. They won't be on while driving and come on when doors open, then slowly fade off with other courtesy lights as someone has already pointed out.

 

Thanks for the pics. They would show all the dust and dirt accumulating on my mat.

 

ordered mine, should have them ina few days

 

Anybody know what the bulb size/number is for the OEM bulbs for these footwell lights? I did look on the "bulb thread" list, but didn't see these listed.
Thanx,

 

excellent question. one that I can't answer. I'll take a look around and see if I can find the install paperwork that came w/the set. Prlly can call Mazda - if all else fails.

 

Well......I was at Autozone yesterday and I'm pretty sure that the are 24NA's. I took one with me and it looks like a match. Did you know those are just white bulbs with a little orangish/red rubber tip on them.......like something you would use on a vacuum line. Anyway, I found some 194 sockets, so I spent yesterday modifying the footwell light plastic piece to accept/mount the 194 sockets and put in blue 6-LED from VLED, as that's what I wanted in the first place.........change the color to blue. Worked good and I like it mucho!