Making the switch from dull, dim, yellowed Halogen headlights to better, brighter, and longer-lasting HID (High Intensity Discharge) bulbs is a change you’ll definitely be glad you made.
The fact is, those outdated Halogen bulbs aren’t just cramping your car or truck’s style—they’re a safety hazard! Once your bulbs dim to the point that they’re barely illuminating the road ahead, you’re putting yourself, your precious cargo, and fellow drivers in harm’s way.
Once you’ve made the smart decision to trade in those stock Halogen headlights for a more modern, contemporary product, you’ll need to brush up on your knowledge of conversion kits to ensure a smooth transition and proper functioning of your new lights.
Common Issues with the working systems
As to be expected with many types of auto upgrades, you may run into one—or more—snafus during the conversion kit installation process. Not to worry! We’ve got you covered in case any problems arise.
- Before you begin, make sure that the HID conversion kit you’re attempting to use is compatible with your vehicle.
- Most products will list the compatibility specs in their descriptions or you can conduct a simple online search.
- Still not sure? Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of the skilled, knowledgeable car and truck lighting professionals at Underground Lighting—we’re only a call, email, chat, or click away!
- The reason for a conversion kit is because most Halogen headlight housing is not the same size as HID headlight bulbs. A conversion kit makes it possible for HID headlight bulbs to be used and fit properly in your current vehicle.
- You’ll also need to know whether your car or truck has reflector or projector-style headlights. This will also determine if HID or LED headlight bulbs will work best with your vehicle’s technology setup and capabilities.
- Once the switch is complete, you may notice that your HID bulbs are flickering and/or making a clicking noise.
- If this occurs, check that your HID bulbs have been correctly and securely attached to the ballasts.
- Next, check and ensure that your plug-in connections are secure and receiving the proper voltage output from your car’s battery.
- Another potential issue may arise when only one side of your HIDs are coming on.
- This could be a result of newer vehicles’ lower voltage causing your ballast not to ignite as it should.
- Before starting your car, try turning the key into the correct position for a few seconds.
- You can also try turning your headlights off and then back on to see if the problem is resolved.
- Still having an issue? You can try switching the ballasts.
- If you’re still noticing only one side working (the same side that was working initially), then you know you’ve most likely got a problem with one of the ballasts.
Tips for a DIY install
Stay a step ahead of any potential problems with these helpful, handy tips to guarantee smoother sailing throughout the process of installing your HID conversion kit.
- Be properly prepared to make the switch.
- You’ll need the following:
- your HID conversion kit
- screwdriver
- battery terminal
- electrical tape, and cable ties
- The first step in the DIY conversion kit installation process is to mount the ballasts. You can use the screws and brackets that typically come with the kits or opt for zip ties if you feel like the screws and brackets may physically damage your car.
- Next up, it’s time to insert the HID bulbs into the headlights housing.
- Gloves are a smart choice here, as greasy or dirty fingers can compromise the bulb’s functionality.
- Wipe the bulbs with a clean, dry cloth to make sure they’re totally clean and dirt or debris-free.
- Connect the blue HID battery connector to your vehicle’s original battery connector. Pro tip: you can attach just one connector for two bulbs—it’ll be enough power to get the job done.
- Next, you’ll need to set up the connection between the bulbs and ballasts, secure the wires, and attach the relay.
- Be sure not to remove the terminal completely—that’ll just increase the risk of further complications.
- When you’re attaching the relay, just remove and reattach the bolt after it’s done to simplify the process.
- Finally, your high-performing HID (also known as Xenon gas) headlights should be good to go! The next time you hit the road, you’ll be amazed at the increased visibility and style your new HID bulbs provide.
Don’t spend another day driving around with barely working, dull, outdated Halogen headlights. Brighten your day—and your ride—with the unmatched output and fresh aftermarket look of HID headlights!
Get connected with the auto lighting pros at Underground Lighting. Their expert guidance will get you on the road to an instant lighting look upgrade.