When to Replace HID Bulb ('02 I35)

[chillin2345]

Hi Everyone,

I had a question regarding when to replace HID headlight bulbs in my '02 I35. I recently noticed that the driver's side headlight started to throw off a greener hue than the passenger's side headlight, which is still pretty white. The bulbs that are installed are still the original bulbs and they do get a lot of use (I drive with my headlights on during the day for visibility/safety and I also do a lot of driving (25k miles/year)).

I'm wondering how much longer will these bulbs last until they need to be replaced? Is there a progression of color that these bulbs go through before they completely burn out?

Thanks.

[jltibbs]

It's at 10 years, go for it. Stop in to your local advance or whoever and drop $200 bones on some new ones. Here's a link on how to replace the bulb. If you already know how, then here's a reminder.

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/i35/2002/el.pdf

Hope this helps.

Welcome to NICOclub.

[audtatious]

HID's will usually start to turn a pinkish color when they start going out.

[JOzz]

It may be that your housing is actually starting to yellow. Blueish light + Yellow housing = Green hue. Just a thought. Depending on if you park outside, most vehicles will get yellowing more on one headlight than the other as it is just exposed to more UV throughout the day. I noticed my housings look green when you look at them from the side at night, and my housings are a little yellowed. Time to sand and buff!