Do I Need a Rectifier to Install LED Headlights in My Snowmobile?

If you’re upgrading your snowmobile to LED headlights, you may be wondering:

“Do I need a rectifier, or can I plug the bulbs in directly?”

The answer depends on your sled’s power system — AC vs DC current.

⚡ What Does a Rectifier Do?

A rectifier converts AC power to DC power at the headlight plug.

Most LED headlights require DC current to work correctly. If your snowmobile sends AC power to the headlights, LEDs can flicker, overheat, or burn out quickly — unless you add a rectifier.

🧪 How to Know If You Need One

Here’s how to tell if your snowmobile needs a rectifier:

✅ You 

DO

 need a rectifier if:

• Your snowmobile sends AC power to the headlights
• You own a Polaris, Arctic Cat, or Yamaha model (most of these run AC unless converted)
• Your LED bulbs flicker or burn out quickly
• You don’t have a battery or electric start

❌ You usually 

DON’T

 need a rectifier if:

• Your sled is a Ski-Doo (most run DC power by default)
• Your snowmobile already runs a DC system
• You’ve previously installed a full-system DC conversion

🔧 How to Check Your Sled’s Power Type

The most reliable way to check is with a multimeter at your headlight plug.

• If the voltage changes polarity as the sled runs, you’re on AC
• If it stays consistent in one direction, it’s DC

Need help? Follow our full guide here:

📘 How to Tell if Your Snowmobile Has AC or DC Power

🔌 Plug-and-Play Rectifiers Make It Easy

Instead of rewiring your sled, you can use a plug-and-play AC/DC rectifier from LEDPowersport.

It installs in seconds — just plug it into your existing headlight harness and connect the LED.

✅ Benefits:

• Converts power right at the bulb
• Prevents LED flickering and burnouts
• No cutting or rewiring needed

👉 Get the Plug-and-Play Rectifier →

🧊 Built for Cold. Built for Power.

At LEDPowersport, our LEDs are designed specifically for snowmobiles. But power issues can still affect even the best LEDs if your sled runs AC current.

To get the best performance, pair your LED kit + rectifier and ride with full confidence — no flicker, no hassle.

🛒 Shop Snowmobile LED Upgrades:

• ✅ Snowmobile LED Headlights (All Models)
• 🔌 AC to DC Rectifier for LED Bulbs