Automotive work light recommendations

[Wiz02]

I'm looking for some recommendations for a general automotive work light or lights. If it's relevant, I will be using it under a 2 post lift.

What style and features should I look for?

What are the pros using? Thanks.

 

[johnre]

Stay away from the old halogens; they run hot and need occasional replacement.

LED arrays are the way to go; I use an older Snap-On branded plug-in, but the newer battery operated ones are getting pretty prevalent and useful, as there's no cord to trip over.

Multi-banks are helpful to came at it from several angles and avoid shadows, either from blockage within the vehicle, or you yourself standing there working.

 

[Wrench97]

For $40 this Icon light from HF is hard to beat> https://www.harborfreight.com/800-l...vUdAaHDnJQpX_1Yvq8zNz-969mgoC_lxoCixUQAvD_BwE

 

[Wiz02]

Stay away from the old halogens; they run hot and need occasional replacement.

LED arrays are the way to go; I use an older Snap-On branded plug-in, but the newer battery operated ones are getting pretty prevalent and useful, as there's no cord to trip over.

Multi-banks are helpful to came at it from several angles and avoid shadows, either from blockage within the vehicle, or you yourself standing there working.

My old first generation led worklight's battery is giving notice and I am looking to get something a bit newer. By multi bank do you mean leds on all sides like an incandescent bulb?

 

[RTM]

I have an Astro SL52

https://www.amazon.com/Astro-Tools-52SL-Rechargeable-Double-Sided/dp/B0877794DG?tag=atomicindus08-20

Not sure if you want battery powered, corded, point light, general area etc

 

[Wiz02]

For $40 this Icon light from HF is hard to beat> https://www.harborfreight.com/800-lumen-led-rechargeable-magnetic-handheld-foldable-slim-bar-work-light-black-59103.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12189148308&campaignid=12189148308&utm_content=163074506115&adsetid=163074506115&product=59103&store=3420&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw4_K0B hBsEiwAfVVZ_-9QfBBkUG5GL3j5YZpeG-vUdAaHDnJQpX_1Yvq8zNz-969mgoC_lxoCixUQAvD_BwE

I was wondering about that HF light with respect to sturdiness. I drop stuff all the time. Amazon has an Astro Pneumatic one and some knock offs, and the knock offs seem to have similar reviews as the Astro one.

I prefer to buy something decent that lasts, but so far all I've found are basically disposable lights.

 

[johnre]

My old first generation led worklight's battery is giving notice and I am looking to get something a bit newer. By multi bank do you mean leds on all sides like an incandescent bulb?

 

[Wiz02]

I have an Astro SL52

https://www.amazon.com/Astro-Tools-52SL-Rechargeable-Double-Sided/dp/B0877794DG?tag=atomicindus08-20

Not sure if you want battery powered, corded, point light, general area etc

Battery powered light for brakes, suspension etc. Although the cord never bothered me on the lights previous to my current one, which is led, battery powered, and has an led array on one face of an aluminum tube and another led point array on the end of the tube.

There is a magnet opposite the point light end. Hexagonal "feet" keeps it from rolling. Must be well over 10 years old but the battery is giving notice.

 

[RTM]

Battery powered light for brakes, suspension etc. Although the cord never bothered me on the lights previous to my current one, which is led, battery powered, and has an led array on one face of an aluminum tube and another led point array on the end of the tube.

There is a magnet opposite the point light end. Hexagonal "feet" keeps it from rolling. Must be well over 10 years old but the battery is giving notice.

Then the Astro I linked might be a good replacement, seems to check all the boxes you listed, and has a 2nd LED bank on the back to light up the area.

 

[Wiz02]

Where did you find these? Very interesting, I see lots of possibilities for both.

 

[Wiz02]

Then the Astro I linked might be a good replacement, seems to check all the boxes you listed, and has a 2nd LED bank on the back to light up the area.

That's the one that I have bookmarked, but I am concerned with all the negative reviews.

 

[Callelle]

Astro 52SL and 100SL + the wireless charging pad. Not having charging wires running everywhere is the nicest thing ever.

 

[RTM]

I am concerned with all the negative reviews

Have you read them? I have not, but I usually find that negative reviews on Amazon are often: "I bought it, it was late, the Post office crushed the box with a forklift, 1 Star "

If I am serious buyer, I do read the negative before the positive

 

[Wrench97]

I was wondering about that HF light with respect to sturdiness. I drop stuff all the time. Amazon has an Astro Pneumatic one and some knock offs, and the knock offs seem to have similar reviews as the Astro one.

I prefer to buy something decent that lasts, but so far all I've found are basically disposable lights.

As much as I liked the Astro lights they didn't hold up as well as this one, nor did the Streamlight switchblade.
I currently have 2 of the Icons, a streamlight stinger, 1 switchblade(which at the moment is back at streamlite for repair) and a Snap on hockey puck. I had a couple of the Braun folding lights and they don't like being dropped the Icons get dropped at least once a day.
The magnets are almost as strong as the Astros and hold up better then the Switchblades.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I have an astro stick light, and a streamlight switchblade. I prefer the streamlight but it's more expensive. The astros last a few years and get flicker issues. They're tough though, I've hit the Astros with torches, lots of drops, they usually soldier on until the flicker starts and I buy another light.

Now I have the switchblade AND the 65SL Astro. I just alternate between the two when the other dies. I think the ergonomics of the switchblade are superior since it bends and can easily point downwards. The Astro has a better magnet, better for hanging upside off the unibody. I think the astro is better under-car, and the streamlight is better under the hood.

 

[Wiz02]

Astro 52SL and 100SL + the wireless charging pad. Not having charging wires running everywhere is the nicest thing ever.

Totally agree on the wireless charging pad, I almost never plug my phone in.

Have you read them? I have not, but I usually find that negative reviews on Amazon are often: "I bought it, it was late, the Post office crushed the box with a forklift, 1 Star "

If I am serious buyer, I do read the negative before the positive

Fluid spills, loose hinge and battery failure seem to be pattern problems.

 

[Wiz02]

I have an astro stick light, and a streamlight switchblade. I prefer the streamlight but it's more expensive. The astros last a few years and get flicker issues. They're tough though, I've hit the Astros with torches, lots of drops, they usually soldier on until the flicker starts and I buy another light.

Now I have the switchblade AND the 65SL Astro. I just alternate between the two when the other dies. I think the ergonomics of the switchblade are superior since it bends and can easily point downwards. The Astro has a better magnet, better for hanging upside off the unibody. I think the astro is better under-car, and the streamlight is better under the hood.

Thanks, I appreciate the feedback, that's what I wanted to know.

 

[Wiz02]

As much as I liked the Astro lights they didn't hold up as well as this one, nor did the Streamlight switchblade.
I currently have 2 of the Icons, a streamlight stinger, 1 switchblade(which at the moment is back at streamlite for repair) and a Snap on hockey puck. I had a couple of the Braun folding lights and they don't like being dropped the Icons get dropped at least once a day.
The magnets are almost as strong as the Astros and hold up better then the Switchblades.

Thanks for the feedback, exactly what I was looking for.

 

[Nutria]

I'm looking for some recommendations for a general automotive work light or lights. If it's relevant, I will be using it under a 2 post lift.

In addition to traditional work lights, you might consider a headlamp, if you aren't using one already. I have a few lighting options, but the headlamp (Black Diamond) is the one that I'd give up last.

 

[Fedwrench]

M12 Underbody Light w/ M12 4.0 Battery | JDTCo.

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

MAXXEON 720 Lumen Cyclops Rechargeable Multi Light | JDTCo.

The WorkStar® 810 Area Work Light is a compact, lightweight floodlight designed for daily use in demanding shop environments. The brilliant white flood-style light beam produces a clear, even pattern that is free from hot spots and dark spots. Runs 720 Lumens on high 2 hours, 360...

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

Astro 1000 Lumen Wirelessly Rechargeable Mini LED Flood Light | JDTCo.

1000 Lumen Wirelessly Rechargeable Mini LED Flood Light is an adjustable output mini flood light with a press and hold dimming power button for 100-1,000 lumens. This light includes USB-C style charging cable and adapter for quick charging, or wirelessly with 52SL-WCP magnetic dual charging pad...

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

These are my favorite area lights currently. I also like a Milwaukee 2128 stick light and coast rechargeable penlights.

There are too many choices at times.

 

[Wiz02]

M12 Underbody Light w/ M12 4.0 Battery | JDTCo.

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

MAXXEON 720 Lumen Cyclops Rechargeable Multi Light | JDTCo.

The WorkStar® 810 Area Work Light is a compact, lightweight floodlight designed for daily use in demanding shop environments. The brilliant white flood-style light beam produces a clear, even pattern that is free from hot spots and dark spots. Runs 720 Lumens on high 2 hours, 360...

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

Astro 1000 Lumen Wirelessly Rechargeable Mini LED Flood Light | JDTCo.

1000 Lumen Wirelessly Rechargeable Mini LED Flood Light is an adjustable output mini flood light with a press and hold dimming power button for 100-1,000 lumens. This light includes USB-C style charging cable and adapter for quick charging, or wirelessly with 52SL-WCP magnetic dual charging pad...

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

These are my favorite area lights currently. I also like a Milwaukee 2128 stick light and I rechargeable penlights.

There are too many choices at times.

Thanks, I am now in analysis paralysis.

 

[Wiz02]

In addition to traditional work lights, you might consider a headlamp, if you aren't using one already. I have a few lighting options, but the headlamp (Black Diamond) is the one that I'd give up last.

Which model?

 

[Nutria]

Which model?

I mostly use the Black Diamond Icon, which gives you a lot of intensity options. It has a four-AA battery pack on the back of the head, which is fine except for lying under the car. When I have to do that, I go with a smaller Petzl Tikka, which has three AAAs directly behind the lens assembly, so it's not in the way. Again, I don't view headlamps as a replacement for a traditional work light, but a very handy addition.

 

[DemoFly]

I am absolutely smitten with my Maxxeon cyclops lights. I'm not the only one. You see them in a lot of boxes everywhere.

No BS. Bright, small, durable.

 

[scooby074]

I really like the ECFHKY lights. They've been tough and throw decent light.

 

[Wiz02]

I am absolutely smitten with my Maxxeon cyclops lights. I'm not the only one. You see them in a lot of boxes everywhere.

No BS. Bright, small, durable.

Any specific model?

 

[DemoFly]

Any specific model?

https://www.amazon.com/Maxxeon-MXN00811-Rechargeable-Cyclops-Workstar/dp/B07WJHGL82/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[2ndGearRubber]

M12 Underbody Light w/ M12 4.0 Battery | JDTCo.

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

MAXXEON 720 Lumen Cyclops Rechargeable Multi Light | JDTCo.

The WorkStar® 810 Area Work Light is a compact, lightweight floodlight designed for daily use in demanding shop environments. The brilliant white flood-style light beam produces a clear, even pattern that is free from hot spots and dark spots. Runs 720 Lumens on high 2 hours, 360...

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

Astro 1000 Lumen Wirelessly Rechargeable Mini LED Flood Light | JDTCo.

1000 Lumen Wirelessly Rechargeable Mini LED Flood Light is an adjustable output mini flood light with a press and hold dimming power button for 100-1,000 lumens. This light includes USB-C style charging cable and adapter for quick charging, or wirelessly with 52SL-WCP magnetic dual charging pad...

www.jerseydiscounttool.com

These are my favorite area lights currently. I also like a Milwaukee 2128 stick light and coast rechargeable penlights.

There are too many choices at times.

I have two astro pod lights as well. I like them mounted to my underhood light bar. Otherwise I'm not a big pod light guy, I prefer the stick format or holding a penlight in my mouth. LOL

 

[Wiz02]

https://www.amazon.com/Maxxeon-MXN00811-Rechargeable-Cyclops-Workstar/dp/B07WJHGL82/?tag=atomicindus08-20

So I bought that in blue and this on a whim
ZOEYLTG LED Work Light, 3000LM 5200mAh Rechargeable Magnetic Underhood IP54 Waterproof Cordless Work Light Bar with Hooks & USB Power Output, Battery Powered Light for Mechanics/Workshop/Emergency https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQLZ7J6P?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[johnu]

I’m liking the $17.oo 800 lumen Nightboom on Amazon.

 

[johnre]

Where did you find these? Very interesting, I see lots of possibilities for both.

Just put "led garage work light array multi-panel" into the Amazon search box; you'll find these and many more like them.

 

[AEAdam]

I really like the ECFHKY lights. They've been tough and throw decent light.

I have a couple of these and really like them. I looked for unbranded versions to no avail when they first came out. Snap On may have had sone exclusive import license. I’ve since seen lights that look like them.

features of these lights I like:
rugged construction, I’ve dropped mine many times
compact, even when hinged
super strong magnet sticks to curved body panels or shocks (small contact patch)
light stays on a long time
Good floody pattern

things I don’t like:
almost too bright
too many clicks to turn off
they may have a bright and less bright mode - can’t be bothered. Just want one mode

i think small lights like these are a must as is having more than one. 2 is ideal, so I think I have 3 or 4 so I always have 2 fully charged.

for headlights, I like the rubber headbands with the led chips embedded into it. You wave your hand past a sensor to turn it on or off. I’ve tried everything else. These are the lowest profile and produce a very broad flood light. The contactless on off switch is great accept when you head is near stuff and the stuff turns your light off. Lights are something I don’t skimp on.

 

[Rinspeed]

Bought one of these Neiko several months ago and I'm pretty happy with it.





https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WI9585I?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Wiz02]

Bought one of these Neiko several months ago and I'm pretty happy with it.





https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WI9585I?tag=atomicindus08-20

Did you get the 350 or 1000 lumen and what was your rationale?

 

[scooby074]

I have a couple of these and really like them. I looked for unbranded versions to no avail when they first came out. Snap On may have had sone exclusive import license. I’ve since seen lights that look like them.

features of these lights I like:
rugged construction, I’ve dropped mine many times
compact, even when hinged
super strong magnet sticks to curved body panels or shocks (small contact patch)
light stays on a long time
Good floody pattern

things I don’t like:
almost too bright
too many clicks to turn off
they may have a bright and less bright mode - can’t be bothered. Just want one mode

i think small lights like these are a must as is having more than one. 2 is ideal, so I think I have 3 or 4 so I always have 2 fully charged.

for headlights, I like the rubber headbands with the led chips embedded into it. You wave your hand past a sensor to turn it on or off. I’ve tried everything else. These are the lowest profile and produce a very broad flood light. The contactless on off switch is great accept when you head is near stuff and the stuff turns your light off. Lights are something I don’t skimp on.

I dont know for sure, but I suspect the Cyclops light is made in the same plant as the SO. If so, they are considerably cheaper.

 

[Rinspeed]

Did you get the 350 or 1000 lumen and what was your rationale?

I got the 350 lumen and it is plenty bright enough for my needs. If I remember correctly, I liked the way the LEDs were laid out better on the 350 over the 1000 and I figured if it wasn't quite bright enough I could always order the 1000. If you want to PM me your cell number I will text you a couple pics tonight.

 

[Wamsutta]

This is my best friend right here. This light has been awesome. Astro 52SL

 

[AEAdam]

I dont know for sure, but I suspect the Cyclops light is made in the same plant as the SO. If so, they are considerably cheaper.

I have the Snap On models at top. They were expensive when I bought them maybe close to 10yrs ago. I recently saw what looks like the same light with a bluepoint label? Maybe they are cheaper now?

You guys need to hone your China manufacturing radars. The light at bottom doesn’t look anything like the top one. I’d bet they are most definitely not from the same factory. The base looks different, the light bezel is different. It’s not just the center portion with the bulb that’s different. Those are different molds. Doesn’t mean it’s junk, but this is how China works. Chinese manufacturers rip each other off as much as they rip off everyone else.

For me, the key features of this light are its long life and strong magnet. Given a choice, I'd pick the magnet over the battery life.

If the cyclops one is like that, it’s good. Don’t care about lumen output too much. I’ve found when buying cheap lights the magnets are often weak. That’s probably an easy corner to cut. When you try out the Nebo lights in the hardware store, they are always stuck to a nice flat surface. My cars don’t have any of those (flat surfaces). Will it stick to a 1” iron pipe at 90degrees?

The magnet is what makes this light shine (sorry).

I think these are all I currently have:

The taller bluepoint ones are nice but they hinge at the top and their magnet isn’t strong enough to support them like that.

Here’s another rubber hits the road application. This little guy is hanging on despite not having much metal to attach to!


Pretty sure most of my cars' hoods are now aluminum which makes attaching lights for engine bay work more challenging.

 

[pelletman]

I love the HF flexible lights. $20 bucks on sale, I have a bunch

 

[M635_Guy]

I have a lot of lights, split mainly between Milwaukee and Icon.

My two favorites are the M12 Rover light and the Icon puck light:



Lights with magnets are pretty great. Both are pretty sturdy vs falls. The Icon is more sealed for oily/whatever stuff. Both have strong magnets, the Icon a little stronger, and it is also easier to position.

The M12 light color is better, the Icon is brighter at its max setting.

I have the Icon stick light someone else posted. It's OK and tough enough for falls, but I reach for the puck first.

I also have and like the M12 Under Hood light but it's expensive for what it is. I got mine as an Amazon Warehouse buy:


HF makes a bar that will take two of the Icon puck lights (or their more-entry Braun 750 lumen lights), attached by magnetic plates, which makes owning it a LOT more practical than the Milwaukee bar.

That said, other than the $$$ (and it was still pricey at Amazon Warehouse pricing), I'm really happy with the M12 underhood light.