Hid Headlight Issue

[roc888]

Hi,

I have noticed lately that when I switch on my engine, my headlights switch on but after a minute, the driver side light goes out.

Does anyone know whether the ballast or headlamp requires changing? I spoke to a lexus specialist who told me that the whole headlamp requires to be changed and it can only be purchased from lexus. Is this true?

Alex

[steve2006]

IIRC the ballast is attached to the headlight housing but I would first try swopping the bulbs side to side then see if the problem moves to the other side indicating a faulty bulb.

The ballasts are generally very reliable.

The bulbs are quite expensive for OEM but there are various sources of alternatives available cheaper and to maintain colour balance it may be best to replace both at the same time.

I can't remember the type required but this problem has come up before so I'm sure some other owners will chip in with further help.

[steve2006]

I think these may be the type.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2x-D4S-6000K-Xenon-Replacement-Lexus-IS250-IS220-HID-Bulbs-/321123891428?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&fits=Cars+Year%3A2008%7CCar+Make%3ALexus&hash=item4ac479b8e4

[roc888]

IIRC the ballast is attached to the headlight housing but I would first try swopping the bulbs side to side then see if the problem moves to the other side indicating a faulty bulb.

The ballasts are generally very reliable.

The bulbs are quite expensive for OEM but there are various sources of alternatives available cheaper and to maintain colour balance it may be best to replace both at the same time.

I can't remember the type required but this problem has come up before so I'm sure some other owners will chip in with further help.

Hi Steve,

Thanks for your assistance.

Stupid question, but if the light goes on when I start the car and then after a minute, the light goes off, would that not indicate that the bulb works?

Alex

[steve2006]

My understanding may be wrong but from what I do understand when the light is first turned on the start up voltage is high, once the light has been on for a short period of time and warmed up the voltage is reduced but the arc is maintained, it is at this point where a defective bulb will not let the arc continue and the bulb goes out.

[Hondaman]

I had the same fault a few weeks ago. The drivers side bulb would go off after a few minutes. It's the bulb not the ballast. Buy some bulbs on eBay and change the pair. The headlamp does not have to be removed. Theres a tutorial video on youtube.

[roc888]

I noticed this morning when I switched on the engine, the drivers side light is beaming pink light rather than white. I assume this confirms it is the bulb and not the ballast?

Can anyone recommend a trusty seller and bulb brand on eBay?

Which are the best aftermarket HID bulbs?

Thanks.

Alex

[roc888]

I had the same fault a few weeks ago. The drivers side bulb would go off after a few minutes. It's the bulb not the ballast. Buy some bulbs on ebay and change the pair. The headlamp does not have to be removed. Theres a tutorial video on youtube.

HI Hondaman,

What is the brand of the HID bulbs did you buy and can you provide me a link of the eBay seller webpage.

Thanks.

Alex

[Hondaman]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/D4S-6000K-Pair-Replacement-Lexus-IS250-IS220-HID-Bulbs-/171150999407?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item27d964ff6f

[roc888]

Hi,

Do these unbranded bulbs offer the same performance and brightness as the branded ones (eg Philips) ?

Thanks.

Alex

[Exdee]

MORIMOTO XENGREEN D4S

Better than Philips IMO.

Only downside is you will have to get them from US so postage will be high.

[roc888]

Is the oem hid bulb 6000k?

[Hondaman]

4300k

[roc888]

Can someone recommend a garage (in Hertforshire/NorthWest London) which can install both bulbs for less than £50.

Thanks

[roc888]

Can someone recommend a garage (in Hertforshire/NorthWest London) which can install both bulbs for less than £50.

Thanks

Anyone able to assist?

[steve2006]

It's not a difficult job to do yourself, as mentioned previously there are even video tutorials on Youtube.

However if you aren't confident any decent local independant garage will be able to fit them for you for 30-40 minutes labour.

[roc888]

It's not a difficult job to do yourself, as mentioned previously there are even video tutorials on Youtube.

However if you aren't confident any decent local independant garage will be able to fit them for you for 30-40 minutes labour.

I think I will get an independent garage to fit both bulbs. Has anyone used Jem Lexus specialists in colindale?

[roc888]

Since I will be changing both hid bulbs,I might as well upgrade my sidelight bulbs. Can anyone tell me the sidelight bulb fitment for is250? also which are the best LED bulbs on the market?

[jayt13]

It's not a difficult job to do yourself, as mentioned previously there are even video tutorials on Youtube.

However if you aren't confident any decent local independant garage will be able to fit them for you for 30-40 minutes labour.

I think I will get an independent garage to fit both bulbs. Has anyone used Jem Lexus specialists in colindale?

Hi Roc,

I have asked Jem for quotes to change brake pads and clutch and their labour is high but should be half the charge you would pay to the dealer, if I was you I would take it to a small garage or someone who is good with cars e.g. friend/family.