HID Lights for 93-96 Q45

[AlabamaDan]

My father in-law has a 1999 Q45 and while I like my 94Q better overall, there are some things I've always liked. One thing is his headlights. Have y'all ever switched? I found this on ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISA...&rd=1

I am a little weary of switching because I've heard of these aftermarket bulbs melting harnesses, shorting out electrical systems, etc....

How can I get the 99 look in my 94?

[Jeff Williams]

I think you should be careful.

My silver Q has had Plasma Glow aftermarket bulbs in it, for several years, with no problems. The guy I bought the car from had then in it, and I have been replacing them with the sam, ever since. It does not look like the new HID bulbs, but the light is much easier on my eyes, at night, and shows street signs 3 to 4 times further away, than the stock bulbs do, on my Black Q. They are hotter, and birghter than the factory ones, too. They came wit ha 10 year warranty, and I have about 5 or 6 more years on them. The bulbs last about 400 hours, before they burn out. I replace the High/Low bulbs and Fog Lights about every 6 to 8 months. I have 2 sets, so I don't have to wait on shipping.

I wouldn't recommend these bulbs, due to their short lifespan, and not being the same wattage as the originals.

[AlabamaDan]

Hey Jeff, you know I just moved to Birmigham! Maybe I'll see you around sometime.

I'm a little confused by your post however. Your bulbs came with a 10 yr warranty but you replace them every 6-8 mos?

[pito11213]

The wattage is what counts as a too high of a wattage will simply melt the connector and you will have the dreaded black eye look. An alternative though is splicing in a new connector with a thicker gauge wire. I did this on a 94 maxima and put on some japanese bulbs and they looked real good.

As far as real HID kits, they look beautiful on the Q. Just have to be careful about installation as when you put them on there is no piece to direct all of the light to the floor, so you will shine light all in someones mirror.

I know there is a way to compensate for this as I have seen it on a 94Q and the light was emitting nicely.

[Q45tech]

Consider that road sand pits and destroys the lens covers especially at our higher speeds. Around 120k I replaced both front headlight assemblies and had a chance to do it again at 235k for free [bought a rear ended wrecked Q with brand new front repair].

What a difference clear un sand blasted glass makes even with standard bulbs.

Not only can you melt the bulb connector but you can damage the individual headlight relays in the assembly.

Eye surgery also works for those of us beginning their 50's.

[Q451990]

I say go with the Sylvania Silverstars. That's what I'm using after trying several aftermarket non-DOT approved higher wattage bulbs that burn out every six months. They're expensive, but readily available and they tend to last for a couple of years. I bought some "lifetime warranty" bulbs on eBay once for $10+5shipping, only to find that the warranty requires a $9.99 handling fee - what a deal.

They are still selling some real HID aftermarket kits on eBay in the $250-400 range, and I might try one of those, but I don't have the time to mess with them right now.

Heath