LED headlights are more powerful than stock halogen lights. They provide better illumination and a longer lifespan compared to other bulb types. As such, some car owners have opted to make the switch.
While it may sound tricky to change the headlights yourself, there are DIY LED conversion kits that can help you get the job done.
A LED headlight conversion kit has everything you need to properly convert the headlight from halogen to LED. It usually contains a set of LED bulbs, ballasts, and wiring harnesses to allow for easy installation and compatibility with the vehicle’s headlight system.
Ensure you research the brand and model kit you’re looking at because some vehicles require specialized tools. It’s also a good idea to check the reviews to see if previous consumers were satisfied with their purchase.
Converting your headlights into LED doesn’t necessarily require a kit. You can still manually replace the bulbs using parts that were individually bought. However, using a kit lets you purchase everything you need in one go.
Additionally, conversion kits make it easier for you to install the new bulbs. These kits ensure the new bulbs fit correctly in your vehicle without professional assistance.
Some kits also offer customizability, letting you choose between different color temperatures.
Here are some of the pros and cons of making the switch to LED headlights.
Halogen headlights use reflectors to direct light toward the front of the vehicle. Some LED headlights don’t come with reflectors, so they may not illuminate as brightly as your original stock headlights.
Buy LED headlights with reflectors to ensure they shine where you need them on the road.
Do note that LED reflectors need to be smaller and differently arranged. Otherwise, the light won’t focus properly. This is because halogens are larger light sources that require different mirror geometry.
Unlike halogen bulbs that can be installed on a plug-and-play basis, LED bulbs require additional equipment to function without overheating. When switching your headlights to the latter, you may need to install a headlight relay and heat sinks.
Relays are electromagnetic switches that use low current to control a higher current circuit. Two relays typically control the headlights.
Meanwhile, heat sinks are cooling solutions for LEDs since they’re thermally low-efficient, structurally heavy, and space-intensive. Heat sinks control the temperature of LED bulbs to maintain their monochromaticity, intensity, and longevity.
Installing LEDs may also require splicing wires, which could void your warranty.
LED bulbs are generally more expensive than your typical halogen bulb. While some go for as low as $100, high-end brands can cost up to $900.
Their long lifespans make up for the initial cost of purchase. A properly installed LED bulb can last up to 50,000 hours, a far cry from the 500-hour lifespan of halogen lights.
Some modern cars have a CAN bus system that enables the ECUs to communicate with one another without the need for complicated wiring. Aftermarket LEDs may interfere with the operation of this system.
Installing a standard LED bulb without a load resistor may result in an active “bulb out” indicator on the dashboard since the power draw is too low for the system to register.
A standard headlight conversion kit typically includes LED bulbs, heat diffusers, fans, current regulators, error cancellers/decoders, and an instruction manual.
Some kits include heat diffusers that allow for proper heat dissipation. This process is crucial since LEDs are sensitive to heat. Using diffusers prolongs the lifespan of LEDs while maintaining performance.
Fans are included to control the bulbs’ temperature, prolonging their lifespan.
LEDs don’t consume that much power, so regulators are included to maintain the voltage and current flowing to the bulbs
Error cancellers/decoders show the error and give warnings required for mechanics.
Some LED headlight conversion kits come with instructions for properly installing the new LED headlights.
The price of LED headlight conversion kits depends on a handful of factors, such as the brand, series, and inclusions. It typically costs somewhere around $250. Some kits cost less, especially those that only include bulbs and basic installation tools.
LED headlight conversion kits can be tricky to work with, especially if they’re incompatible with your vehicle’s make and model. If you’re unhappy with any of your orders, don’t worry. With a CarParts+ membership, you’re free to return qualified purchases within two months.
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