Diode Dynamics Elite Series Fog Lamps - Review

By Caesar Rowinski
on May 07, 2022
Categories: Lunar Rock TRD Pro - Project 4Runner

I've had a set of prototype Elite Series fog lamps by Diode Dynamics installed for a few weeks now. The white SS3 Max fogs have been installed since I got the vehicle so this was a big change! I wanted to take a moment and provide feedback to anyone considering these new OEM+ style fog lamps!

First of all, I love the way they look. The optical design elements are amazing. I love the details. My eyes are drawn to the fog lamps more than ever when I look at the front end. It could be the yellow lenses, since they stand out even more. I have the back light feature hooked up (standard feature) to the ignition so anytime the vehicle is on the back lighting on the fog lamps and ditch lights come on. This back lighting matches the Morimoto Amber DRL's perfectly despite being dimmer.

Check out the width and color! As you can see there is no additional light above the cutoff light. Very sharp cutoff!

One of the questions I saw asked most about the new Elite Series is how do these new Elite Series stack up against the SS3's - "Are they brighter than the Max?"

Check out the video I made below that goes into detail on what to expect on these. While I do not think most SS3 customers will make the switch, this opens the options on future fog lamp choices for other vehicles.

White or Yellow?

Elite Series Information & Specs

Features

High-performance OEM-grade replacement
Custom-engineered optic provides extremely wide, intense light output
Distinctive integrated amber backlight
Road-legal fog light (SAE F3 compliant)
Plug and play main beam, no modification needed
Engineered and assembled in USA

Overview

Factory fog lights are built to meet minimum output requirements. Every aftermarket design available provides similar lackluster performance, but with an LED. The focus has been on LED appearance, not increased output. There has never been an aftermarket fog light designed from the ground up for performance - until now.

Introducing the Elite Series Fog Lamps: the first OE-style fog lights that were designed for true performance. With a custom-engineered patent-pending optic, multi-die automotive emitters, and high-power full-copper circuit boards, the Elite Series fog light delivers up to 5 times more output than halogen lamps. With a plug-and-play installation, this is one of the easiest and most effective upgrades you can make to improve your visibility in inclement weather.

Output that Outperforms. The Elite Series Fog Lamp is built around a highly-engineered single-piece PMMA lens. This optic was carefully designed using advanced optical simulation software to produce a light pattern that is wider than any other aftermarket fog lamp on the market, with an 80-degree spread of highly intense light. Even with this extremely wide band of light, the pattern is extremely smooth throughout, with an extremely sharp cutoff to avoid glare to other drivers, including a BMW-style “color flicker” at the very edge of the pattern. Diode Dynamics engineers accomplished all this while still meeting SAE F3 fog light standards, for legal on-road use. Please check your local laws and regulations for aiming, installation, and applicability.

White or Yellow. All Elite Series Fog Lamps are available in a cool white or selective yellow output color.

The white is a 6000K color temperature, which is a true cool white output. This will perfectly match other LEDs on your vehicle, such as DRLs or running lights. The white option also offers a premium BMW-style color band at the very top of the beam pattern.

The selective yellow option is 3000K in color temperature, which is great for high contrast in inclement weather, or in providing a distinctive look on the road. The yellow lamp consists of a yellow multi-die LED emitter paired with a yellow-tinted lens, to provide unmatched output and optical efficiency, even with the intense yellow output.

Backlight Functionality. All Elite Series Fog Lamps come standard with an integrated amber accent light. This backlight feature fully illuminates the main lens with amber LEDs, intended to match other position, sidemarker, or corner lights on your vehicle. This feature can be wired to any constant 12-volt source for your desired vehicle function, using the included tap connector. It will shut off automatically if the main beam is activated. Check local laws and regulations for acceptable use.

Bolt-On Fitment. Elite Series Fog Lamps can be installed on most vehicles in minutes. Simply remove your factory fog light assembly and ours will bolt right in its place, using sturdy glass-fiber-reinforced brackets. With built-in adjustment, the lamps can be aimed after installation. To wire them up, a pair of waterproof plug-and-play adapters are included to connect the lights to your factory bulb sockets.

Assembled with Quality - in the USA. Elite Series Fog Lamps are assembled in the USA using OEM-grade materials, including a precision aluminum casting, UV-coated outer lens, copper-core circuit board, and multi-die automotive emitters. After being assembled by Diode Dynamics in St. Louis, Missouri, they are robotically sealed with urethane epoxy for long-lasting protection against moisture, and packaged in form-fit foam for safe transportation. No expense has been spared, from materials to assembly, right here in America.

Proven Reliability - Backed for 8 Years. Like our popular Stage Series lineup, Elite Series LED lamps have been extensively tested for long-term operation from -40 to 185 degrees F, along with vibration, moisture intrusion, and corrosion testing. All of these tests are completed to SAE standards, just like factory components on your vehicle. With integrated moisture-proof vents, the lamps can “breath” with changes in temperature, maintaining a strong seal over time. And with built-in circuit protection for voltage spikes and reverse polarity, these lights will keep working for years. They are backed by an industry-leading 8-year limited warranty.