2003 XK8 Cpe.
I have (2) bar type LED's mounted to front re-bar to use as DRL's behind the mesh grill. I need a power source to trigger the relay or just to power them. The current draw is measured at (.19A actual) or 1.9 mA?. Relays (google search) draw 100-300 mA for triggering, but my LED's only draw 1.9 mA. Appears the LED's should draw less current than using a relay to power them. I am novice, but thinking they could be powered off a switched 12V. power source. Can anyone suggest a source (location and wire color code) I can connect my posi-tap and power them directly? Had planned to use the enclosure on the right front cowl for relay, but now any switched power near front would work. Please correct my plan if I'm using wrong logic.

 

No need for a relay using LED's as DRL's. However I would put a fuse in the circuit. Using a multimeter find a fuse in the drivers side under hood fuse box that has power only when the car is switched on, using an add a circuit fuse tap wire in the DRL's. These can be found at any auto parts store.

 

Have the LED'S mounted to the aluminum re-bar behind the chrome mesh grill. They are invisible until illuminated. Still dealing with power source and will update when project is functioning properly. 300 views and 1 response, thanks Jandeau

 

Do you have an electrical schematic of the front exterior lighting? If not, I've attached for your 2003.

 

Here's the layout of the left engine compartment fuse box. I'd say fuse #3 would be a good place to tap into.

 

UPDATE-- More progress and appears this is near completion. Used a power source in the Cowl passenger (Right) side under hood. Consulted with WHITE XKR and determined the Wu (white/blue tracer) was valid source. Since the 2 LED'S used less than 2mA and a relay used 100-300mA, that choice was eliminated. Fabricated a sub harness from lights to area under air box. Made a clean ground/earth there and continues on with my 18G. white wire enclosed in a 1/4" black convoluted tubing back along the right frame rail. Gained entry into the Right cowl enclosure by drilling a pilot hole and then enlarging with a step drill near the A/C line and main battery cable connector. This required removal of the Air Duct and the Air Filter Box. The fuse panel is mounted with (2) two 8mm head fasteners; then the panel will lift upwards for access. We choose the W/u (White with Blue tracer) as the power wire as it is large than the others. The tap was made with a Blue Posi-Tap connector. A ATO/ blade type fuse holder with 18G. leads was also required. One end was a attached to the Posi-Tap and other was connected by a Blue Posi-Drive to the white wire leading to the LED'S. A 3A ATO type fuse was inserted to protect this circuit. Checked all connections and powered up! OK! Thanks to all who responded. Drove approximately 75 miles last night and worked as anticipated. Under hood area CLEAN and no evidence of this addition.
BTY the Bar type LED'S sourced off E-Bay Vendor less than $10.