Crummy headlights - Can't see, need upgrade
My old 2007 GMC has never had the best headlights. Driving from Lethbridge to Calgary last night I was really cussing them. Old original factory headlights and I cannot see worth a darn. They are...
Forum Discussion
I actually wanted to swap out the headlight housings on my SUV and downgrade to halogen instead of HIDs. Part of the reason was that my German made vehicle headlights were allowing internal moisture to accumulate, burning out more than one of the HID control modules at about $550. each.
Replacing the HID headlamp housing was not a practical option as the part was $2,900. each, not including the control module. Used parts rarely appear and go fast. Part of reason for the high cost is that they're articulated lights, adjust based on turn. The HID option is one I now wish my SUV didn't have. Halogens were standard.
Another problem is the onboard sensors will throw error codes if anything is modified. Not to mention requiring a different overpriced wiring harness which is difficult to access needing several panel disassembles. This is an SUV that can take 30 minutes to turn off vehicle service codes via software only, as it has too many sensors IMO. Change your tires, it throws annoying warnings until you reprogram or confirm the correct size. Low on windshield washer fluid, you get a huge annoying warning light/tone as if its about to blow up. A PITA at times.
Bottom line, you need to do some research before even making what appears simple modifications, as you may not be aware how it effects other systems in your vehicle. Vehicles today have become too computer dependent making them complex for DIYer. The opening a can of worms syndrome.
In my case, I ended up disassembling the factory headlamps fixing the issues, and have not had problems since.
Replacing the HID headlamp housing was not a practical option as the part was $2,900. each, not including the control module. Used parts rarely appear and go fast. Part of reason for the high cost is that they're articulated lights, adjust based on turn. The HID option is one I now wish my SUV didn't have. Halogens were standard.
Another problem is the onboard sensors will throw error codes if anything is modified. Not to mention requiring a different overpriced wiring harness which is difficult to access needing several panel disassembles. This is an SUV that can take 30 minutes to turn off vehicle service codes via software only, as it has too many sensors IMO. Change your tires, it throws annoying warnings until you reprogram or confirm the correct size. Low on windshield washer fluid, you get a huge annoying warning light/tone as if its about to blow up. A PITA at times.
Bottom line, you need to do some research before even making what appears simple modifications, as you may not be aware how it effects other systems in your vehicle. Vehicles today have become too computer dependent making them complex for DIYer. The opening a can of worms syndrome.
In my case, I ended up disassembling the factory headlamps fixing the issues, and have not had problems since.
