I finally replaced my cheap CX-5 LED sill plates
So I've been down the cheap LED door sill rabbit hole and wanted to share my experience after about a year of daily driving.
First attempt: ~$28 AliExpress set. Looked decent in photos.
Reality:
- uneven LED brightness
- edges started lifting after 3 months
- one panel completely died by month 5
Second attempt was another AliExpress seller with a more "premium" listing for around $45.
Fitment was a little better, but the engraving quality honestly looked rough and cheap in person. Ended up returning them.
After that I stopped trying to save money and ordered a custom-made set specifically for the CX-5. Asked them to do a different logo instead of the stock Mazda one.
I've had them installed for 13 months now.
Still no lifting edges, LEDs are evenly lit, and they honestly still look new even after winter + regular washing.
Installation was easier than expected too. About 30 mins per side, wiring tucked under trim, no drilling needed.
Yeah, they cost way more than AliExpress options (~$200), but after wasting money twice I probably should've just done that from the start.
Curious if anyone else here had the same experience with cheaper LED sill sets.