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Headlight Modification to LED

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by Terrell, May 4, 2016.

  1. Terrell

    Terrell Old-Timer

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    II
    I'm also interested in converting to LEDs for my headlights, if there's an easy way to do it. I burn through a set of headlamps in about a year or less, partly because I run the headlights as running lights all the time, day and night.
     
  2. Kevin_Denver

    Kevin_Denver Active Member

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    There are kits like the OPT7 LED Headlight Bulbs w/ Clear Arc-Beam Kit - 9006 that fit the Prius

    Keep in mind that through kits like those try to put out light in as close of a place/direction as the stock bulbs, they don't really. Using that kit will give somewhat uneven disbursement of light, and is in most cases illegal (due to the amount of glare to other drivers exceeding regulation). However if you specifically want the "look" of the bluer 6000K light, it may be worth it. Also, such kits "overdrive" the LEDs and then cool them with a fan. Doing so eliminates some of the efficiency and longevity benefits of using LEDs (but not all, should still last longer and be more efficient than incandescent/halogen).

    Personally, I wouldn't use LED headlights unless the housing was specifically built for it. If you're very DIY, you could buy LED lights for another car and then retrofit them to the Prius, ensuring they are aimed properly to not cause glare to other drivers.
     
    #2 Kevin_Denver, May 5, 2016
    Last edited: May 5, 2016
  3. Justdidit

    Justdidit LVNPZEV

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    2007 Prius
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    Four Touring
    What @Kevin_Denver said. (y)

    Current LED light kits are still not that bright...if you compare to HID. HID still has the most lumens for the $$

    The issue you will have by running an LED kit... such as the one below:
    [​IMG]

    Is the same issue you have when you run HID bulbs in Halogen headlights. The bowl housing isn't designed for it and the light reflection causes glare in on coming traffic. Some areas this is considered illegal. Check with your local laws.

    No doubt the HID/LED 9003/H4 bulbs will 'work' but it WILL cause glare unless you do a retrofit.

    STILL to date, the best 'upgrade' is a retrofit. Lots of threads on here for that.
     
    Kevin_Denver likes this.
  4. jinya1004

    jinya1004 Junior Member

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    2004 Prius
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    I believe DDM just came out with an XHP50 LED set, 3,000 lumens with the light in the correct space.

    About $130

    However, I'm letting everyone know I've had poor customer service experiences with them, even after purchasing six sets of HID kits from them.

    I think I'd be okay as long as you don't take their warranty seriously


    iPhone ?
     
    Silver Pine Mica likes this.
  5. Justdidit

    Justdidit LVNPZEV

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    Any one try these LEDs??

    45W H1 x2 = 90W

    Image1463431436.086070.jpg

    Looking at it as an option to replace a DRL/hi-beam combo as HID is unable to do this.