Can I Change My Car Headlights to LED?

Since the late 80s, electric headlights have been a standard addition to vehicles. These Headlights have continued to evolve, creating brighter illuminations and a safer road for drivers at night.

In my blog post today, I’ll be answering the question, Can I change my headlights to LED? Factors to consider when deciding and What LED light is best to buy. Let’s get into it.

The answer to your question is yes.

You can change your car headlights to LED on any car regardless of age and condition, as long as your automobile headlights are factory-fitted with hydrogen bulbs. Don’t fret the majority of cars are.

However, whether or not you should do that is another conversation. 

What Exactly Are LED’s?

LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are semiconductor light sources that emit light when current flows through them. LEDs come in different colors, and the color of the light is determined by the energy required for the electrons to cross the semiconductor’s band gap.

Since 2004 the automotive industry has been developing the use of LEDs as headlights. By 2006 Lexus created the LS600H, which became the standard with a low beam LED headlight. This was the first series produced to hit the market before other prominent brands like Audi and Cadillac began production.

The list of car companies that have launched LED headlights may create the perception that they are only for exclusive vehicles, but that is not the case. Thanks to LED technology and manufacturing advancements, production has become significantly cheaper, with an aftermarket price of $75-$150.

Should I Change to LED Headlights?

Having the ability to do something doesn’t always mean it’s the right thing to do. Are you contemplating changing your vehicle’s headlights? There are serial factors that come into place when deciding to change LED headlights. We have done the research for you. 

Factors to Consider

Bulb Type:

There are two types of headlight bulbs, the single beam and the dual-beam bulb. The single beam bulb has its high and low beam uses different bulbs, while the dual-beam bulb has its high and low beam combined in the same bulb. A headlight that uses single beam bulbs cannot be installed into a dual-beam bulb headlight and vice-versa. 

To change your headlights to LED, You need to determine what type of bulb your car uses. 

Here are some ways you can do that.

• Contact your Automobile manufacturer
• Look through your automobile’s owner manual
• Have a professional remove the bulb and read its info.

Brightness:

One of the most significant factors to consider is how much light LED headlights emit? When compared to the conventional halogen bulbs, LEDs emit considerably more light. The quality of light is also way better as LEDs emit a more precise, brighter white light than halogen-fitted headlights. 

However, they can reflect glare if not installed correctly. It is crucial to have your headlights installed and inspected by experienced professionals. 

Color:

Gear heads often look for headlights that enhance the aesthetics of their automobiles. LED headlights are housed in very stylish cases, offering more design freedom and adding a little finesse to the daily ride.

 Although LED headlights can come in different colors, it’s hard to find colors other than white. Temperature is also critical as it affects the brightness and visibility and can cause breakage to headlights.

Cost:

Although LED headlights are more expensive than their halogen counterparts, they have long-term benefits, as LED headlights use 25 % less energy than hydrogen bulb headlights. Because of this, they last longer, thereby requiring less maintenance; it is guaranteed to save you money in the long run. 

To purchase a standard top quality LED headlight, with installation, you should be considering a budget of about $100-$200

Life Span:

LED headlights have a longer lifespan than halogen headlights. With an average life span of 20,000 hours, they get replaced way less often than hydrogen bulbs, with just 2,000 to 4,000 hours. 

LED headlights averagely last more than ten years, meaning that they’ll probably outlast the lifespan of your automobile unless destroyed by accident. They are also more durable, as  LED headlights are shockproof while the halogen variant is not.

Size:

LEDs are very compact, and you don’t need to bother yourself about whether they’ll fit.

 Although LED headlights are more compact than halogen headlights, you’ll need to purchase a conversion kit before installing. 

It is also important to note that halogen bulb headlights have minimal ultra-violet rays, while LED bulbs do not.

Pros

• LED headlights produce better light quality Compared to halogen headlights. LEDs illuminate dark roads 25% farther than their halogen counterparts, including improved illumination to the sides of the road. 
• They do not consume a lot of electric power. Because LEDs do not have much drag on the electrical system of your car, it consequently improves fuel mileage.
• LED headlights produce less heat than halogen and HID bulbs. They prevent oxidation and increase the lifecycle of your headlights.
• LED headlights are more eco-friendly than halogen bulbs.
• LEDs are smaller and less bulky compared to halogen and HID bulbs

Cons

• The lenses of LED headlights get cold during winter. Because they do not produce much heat, LED headlights can’t melt built-up ice or snow, obstructing the lights.
• The Development of LED headlights is still in its infancy. When compared to its counterpart, the halogen bulb, A lot is still yet to be discovered 
• LED bulb color can change over time and constant usage
• Life span may be affected by overheating
• They’re illegal for road users in some countries. 

Bottom Line 

The development of LED headlights is still ongoing, so it is reasonable to expect more exciting developments, such as the newest concept being introduced, LI-Fi. This is an upgraded version of the WI-FI using light for connectivity rather than radio waves.

Whatever decision you make, remember to get it installed and serviced by an experienced professional.