My sister recently bought a 2007 Prius Package 6 with HID's. Her headlights will turn on for about 2-3 minutes then one will go out and then both will go out. If you turn off the headlights and turn them back on then they will both turn on again but only for a few minutes. Any ideas as to what this can be? I figured it's not the bulbs since once they go out, they shouldn't come back on but I could be wrong. Thank you.
I doubt it. Do you actually have HIDs? In this order, it's likely the bulbs, ballast then wiring. Start w/the bulbs. See Headlights...WHY so expensive...any alternatives?!?!?! | PriusChat.
I do not personally have HIDs...does it matter? I was just throwing out a couple ideas...maybe something failing along the way. I was thinking a fuse would be something quick to check/try. As you mentioned with wiring...maybe something is frayed somewhere. Again...just spitballing. I'll certainly defer to others with more expertise on the subject.
It does. I do and I've personally experienced them being intermittent and had to replace one of mine. Even the class action notice found at Toyota Prius Class Action Lawsuit | Toyota Headlight Lawsuit | Girard Gibbs LLP discusses the symptoms of them being intermittent. I replaced one of mine around the time of can't remove washer fluid tank, trying to replace passenger side HID | PriusChat and bought my 06 new in January 06. Since the OP has an 07, it's not surprising that his HIDs are going out now. Please also read Not all HID Bulbs are created equal | PriusChat about failures. Also see http://priuschat.com/attachments/hid-bulbs-pdf.20792/ (prior to the settlement).
This is usually the sign of the HID's reaching the end of their service life. Replacing them both as a set is a good bet and Priuschatters have had great luck with the Phillips (OEM) bulbs, which can be bought on Amazon for a song and dance (compared to what the dealers charge!!) of around $45/each.
Thank you everyone for your replies. I've ordered a pair of headlights for my sister to see if that resolves the problem. Looks like a lot of people are experiencing it! So far in my 04 Prius with HIDs, I have not had this issue. I should keep my fingers crossed!
Hopefully you ordered genuine Philips D4R bulbs from reputable resellers (e.g. Amazon and not a 3rd party reseller there). As for your 04, it's not surprising. It seems the D2R system used in the 04-05 is a lot more reliable. See 04-05 (NOT 06-09) Prius owners w/HIDs - how long did they last? | PriusChat.