headlights messed up!!!

[racergirl21]

My headlights are not working properly. First it started when i changed my original headlights to some japanese brand HID headlights (those give off a white light effect). then after some time they started acting up, I had to keep opening my hood and pushing the lights inward so they would turn on. After some time i checked them and they no longer worked even with the kick start, so I checked my connectors and both connectors on both sides had burned out, i did some electrical on my own car and switched out those connectors with different ones. the problem had been fixed, but instead of having both HID effect lights.. only one side had the HID light and the other had original bulb....after a while i changed the plain light to the white effects.. the same problem persisted.. now i only have one headlight.. what do you guys think is the problem? it is a major pain driving my altima with only one headlight! might be a wire problem.. something grounding out.. but I want to know for sure.!HELP

[demotim00]

Those aftermarket HID headlights are known for putting out more heat than what the lenses and or connectors are capable of handling. Chances are its burning your connectors. The way to fix it would be replace both connectors, than use some regular headlights, you can purchase Sylvania Xtra Vision Headlights, which are around 30% brighter than the stock, but will not put out any extra heat. At the same time check the lenses, and if they're clouded, purchase some headlight cleaner from any auto store, follow the directions & it will make the lenses look like new. The Xtra Vision bulbs & clean lenses and you'll be amazed how much brighter the headlights can be. Personal experience here.

[racergirl21]

you're exactly right.. that was really helpfull .. now where can i find those sylvania lights? anywhere like autozone? i just dont want the same thing to happen.. and my lenses are really fogged so i will clean them out.
I will take your advice.. switch out the old burned out connectors, get some lights which will not give off too much power.. more than my connectors can handle and clean the lenses.

Thanks so much

[demotim00]

I just got done buying my headlights the other day, from Autozone, and the cost was $20 for a twin pack. I have a 94 Altima, and my headlight number is 9003 H4 Headlights, however depending upon the year you have it could be differnet. You can also get the lense cleaning kit from autozone as well. You rub it on the outside of the lenses, and as long as you follow the directions it will really clean up good, although depending how severe it is, it could take several applications. Sylvania headlights are OEM replacements, however they make several different kinds, including standard & than the Xtra Vision, which is what you would want as they are brighter. You can also get whats called Sylvania Silverstars, which are supposed to be brighter yet, and they too would work, as they're still OEM equipment, not aftermarket, meaning they put out the same heat. Autozone or any autopart store will sell what you need though & if you're not sure what to get, just ask, and they'll show you what you'd want. Just remember to switch out the connectors first, because if theres any burned part of them, they could cause the new lights to mess up.

[racergirl21]

thats true.. i'd have to switch out the connectors that i have now and get new ones. And I was thinking about getting the silverstars ... but I believe those run about 60 dollars or so .. I have the 9007 number on my lights

Thanks so much for the information.... you've been a lot of help!


Now I just need to wait for my next paycheck to get this done...