What's the deal with HID lighting???

[schadler]

Hi-

Have things changed, or are the HID light-knockoffs still just souped-up incandescent halogens? Are true HID lights (non-filament) available aftermarket yet, or are all these upgrades that everyone is doing just the fancy filament bulbs. I've read some people saying they "installed a great new set of HID's" and stuff.

Also, has anyone tried those LED replacements I've seen in AutoZone?

 

[ahhjaws]

I know there are some true HID lights out there. But $$$$$$

 

[Alec]

True HID kits are upwards of about $500. They include bulbs, balasts, and wiring. However, light output is limited since they reuse the stock housings. They do help though.

Anything cheaper than that (especially below $100) is a gussied up halogen light.

 

[schadler]

tHANKS

I see your point about the old fixtures. $500 doesn't seem that much for all the hype on lighting. I mean, everyone is getting those brush guards for $500 or so, and many dont go offroad. If you are going to do a serious mod job, you might as well get lights that not only look better, but actually make a difference with the amount of light.

As an aside I read all that bunk lately on complaints to the NHTSA about HID's. People seem to be complaining just because they are different looking light color, more than anything. Why are some people such friggin idiots. The only lights that I've ever thought were blinding were on Ford F-350's years ago.

 

[Alec]

I do think that some of the new cars with HIDs are blinding, especially in the rain.

 

[Bill Kemp]

The price has come down..$320. delivered.
I just got a set for my Cad. (9006) and they are bright.
I have seperate bulbs for bright lights (9005). So I still have the use of the bright lights.
On a 9007 system you would loose your bright lights unless you added driving lights. There are some 9007 systems that have brights also but they are more $$.
www.xenon-kit.com