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Halo swap for HID?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by donarsman, Oct 20, 2008.

  1. donarsman

    donarsman New Member

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    Has anyone swapped there stock Halogens for the HID's? How much did it cost? how hard was it?
     
  2. kenmce

    kenmce High Voltage Member

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    You need to swap out the housing also. The halogen reflectors give a lousy beam with HIDs.
     
  3. mechanic

    mechanic New Member

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    kenmce, where would i be able to get the housing for the HID's?
     
  4. lenjack

    lenjack Active Member

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    You might also need to change the wiring and other electrical components in the headlight system.
     
  5. Celtic Blue

    Celtic Blue New Member

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    Might be best to see if you can swap with another owner who has the HID system. There might be some who would prefer the lower cost halogen set up. (After hearing how expensive HID bulbs are, the recommendations to replace both bulbs if one goes out, and some folks problems with the HID ECU/electronics I wouldn't touch 'em with a ten foot pole.)
     
  6. kenmce

    kenmce High Voltage Member

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    Re: Halogen swap for HID?

    From the dealer, on eBay, junkyard, or look for somebody whose car has been hit side or rear. In addition to the housing and the bulbs there are some black boxes that pump up the 12 volt DC enough to ignite and run HIDs. With the factory install there is also a sensor on the frame inside the left rear wheel. It measures the level of the car and raises/lowers the beams to keep them level so you don't blind people. There is also a little motor that raises/lowers a shield in front of the light. That is what gives you high/low beams.

    I consider it is a somewhat advanced project. Not impossible though. I have the HIDs and they: :rockon: Another option is to get an aftermarket kit, cut holes in the grill, and mount them there.