PIAA RFK 6 Review

I had been looking for a good auxiliary light setup to supplement my headlights since moving to Montana a few months ago. Montana roads tend to be very dark and fairly empty, so I wanted something to add to the tacoma’s relatively weak stock lighting ability. While I wanted extra lumens, I’m not interested in the desert racer look, so a large light bar wasn’t an option for me. My ideal light was one that could be tucked somewhere inside my ARB bumper for a more subtle look.

When Automatcentral offered the opportunity to review the RFK 6, it seemed like the perfect fit.

Ordering was quick and easy through http://www.automatcentral.com/PIAA-LED-LightBar.html . I was able to pay with PayPal, which I prefer. The light arrived within a few business days and was well packaged. They even Included a hat.



As you can see this light is very compact. It has only 2 LEDs, which reflect out. This is the driving model, so the beam is focused. The hardware and wiring harness are VERY high quality and sturdy. No need to go out to the hardware store to supplement or replace what’s included here. The kit has great instructions and even included pieces to link to 6’ lights together. My only gripe with the installation kit is the switch. PIAA obviously has to make this a one-size-fits-all deal, so the switch looks like it would be more at home on an ATV or buggy than a modern truck. It’s well built though, so you wouldn’t have to replace it if you’re ok with the aesthetics.

PM[/GALLERY]

For my install, I spliced into the stock harness using H10 extenders I purchased off of Amazon. I do not run any fog lights, so these were just sitting for me. Install was extremely quick and easy, and I also did the fog light anytime mod at the same time. The only note here is about the mounting hardware. The bolts they supply to mount the light to your surface are thick, so be ready to drill a nice sized hole for those. PIAA recommends using 2 bolts to mount the 6” light, but I opted for one. They say this is ok, but not preferred. I honestly have no reservations about the sturdiness.


Actual lighting impressions:
Ok so my first thoughts seeing this bounced off my house were 1- Extremely bright for the size and draw and 2- very focused. I was a bit worried that the light would reach out too far, but this was unfounded. Driving impressions are that it fills the void between low beams and high beams very well. The area in front of the truck is better illuminated with a bright and clean white tone, and I will often run this in conjunction with low beams.

Just the RKF 6:

RFK6 with lows:

With highs:

more distance:


And a short video showing lows to PIAA and back again:


My overall impression is that this is a very high quality lighting option for those who need a lot of light from a small form factor. The low draw is great, as it means less stress on my stock wiring and electrical system overall. The looks are unique among off road lights, so some may prefer to hide this and not mount them prominently. While one light offers a big upgrade for me, I'm considering buying a second to throw more light and spread the pattern a bit.

 

I think you need a pair of these lights to really get a full proper light throw on the road