Diode Dynamics Hitchmount Reviews?

Hi All,

Has anyone installed and have impressions to share for the Diode Dynamics Hitchmount product?

It looks like an easy to install and lockable option for additional light when backing up, and there is an option for brake light functionality as well. Overall visibility at night is improved via an additional parking light on either version, too.

https://www.diodedynamics.com/hitchmount-led-pod-reverse-kit-for-2014-2023-toyota-4runner.html

I've installed HIR backup/reverse bulbs, but this looks like it may offer a significant boost of light when backing up.

 

I have it, I think it's pretty great. Easy install, nice quality, good n' bright.

 

Does the supplied "plug n play" wiring harness plug right into the round 7 pin socket on the left side under the bumper?

 

It actually plugs in behind the 7 pin to keep your 7 pin open for use. It's pretty slick.

 

Is it substantially brighter backing up at night with the hitch light?

 

I already have quad reverse lights with the Diode Dynamics tails-as-turn so for me, it is brighter, but not like a "wow" factor. I actually bought it more for the 4th blinking brake light with the morons out here.

I would guess though for someone with a OEM reverse lights it would be a significant upgrade

 

I just installed this a couple weeks ago. Really easy install being plug and play. I purchased the parking light and reverse light version not the more expensive version(which was backordered for weeks at the time). For the price it throws a good amount of light and I like that it’s “stealthy” and sits inside the hitch.

 

So you have the C1 version, not the C1R?
Does the red running light brighten when brakes are applied?

I ask because I read a review that said the C1 does have the brake feature, just not the initial 6-blink of the more expensive C1R.
https://www.4runnerlifestyle.com/products/diode-dynamics-hitchmount-led-pod-reverse-kit?variant=43534459109621

 

Correct the c1 version. the C1 version does not brighten when brakes are pressed that is only the c1r version that does that.

 

How easily/quickly does this pop out if you want to tow something?

 

You push the two tabs(they lock into the pin holes on the hitch)in, pull the pod out and unplug the connector on the back. 10-15 seconds.

 

This

 

Is the C1 all plastic? Durability? Risky of harness damage from parking lot theft ?
Rattling over time ?

 

The pod itself I assume is like the rest of their pods, made of aluminum. The bracket that holds the pod in the hitch seems to be a 3D print(hard plastic, correct me if I’m wrong) but of higher quality.

If someone decides they want it and rips it out forcefully then I’d guess there would be damage to either the harness or the connector. You have the option to trim the tabs and use a lock through your hitch to avoid that.

There is a minimal amount of rattle but I presumed there would be since you would have a hard time pulling out the light if it was wedged into the hitch.

 

I recently got my DD hitchmount after a 2 month wait! I'm having a heck of time unplugging the 7 pin. Part of the issue is I have an injury to my elbow that causes severe pain when grasping anything. But I'm also not sure if there is a latch or anything I need to press or hold in when unplugging the 7 pin.

Is there a trick to unplugging the 7 pin from the 4runner or is it just brute force?

 

I'm an able bodied young man and I was cussing at it. It is indeed tight and it doesn't help its awkward to get to.

 

Got this light about a week ago and its dramatically brighter than the stock reverse lights, almost so bright that in certain scenarios it's a little too bright for the camera's contrast to adjust for it.



So far as my install review, the 7 pin connector wasn't that awful, just a little awkward to get to. Maybe took 5-10 minutes to install entirely.

 

I am neither young nor that able-bodied. It was a PITA until I pushed down on the release tab hidden under the tape around the factory loom connector, then it came off pretty easily. Hope that helps someone.

 

Got mine in January, backed into a few snow banks, and it still works fine to this day: https://www.4runners.com/posts/415907

 

Did anybody's rear camera view change when they plugged this in? I assumed it was like a "trailer mode", but seeing someone's post above with the normal view makes me think I might have pressed a button

 

Has anyone had trouble with the C1R and continuous blinking when installed? Read that on a couple reviews. Anyone have that problem and/or fixed it?