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Normal for headlights to surge when activated?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by George W, Dec 30, 2018.

  1. George W

    George W Active Member

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    When I turn the headlights in in my Gen 2 Prius, the lights are very bright for an instant before settling on a consistent illumination level. Is this typical? If not, what could be going on? Thanks.
     
    #1 George W, Dec 30, 2018
  2. DMC-5180

    DMC-5180 Active Member

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    Do you have Halogen or HID’s?


    iPhone X ?
     
    #2 DMC-5180, Dec 30, 2018
  3. George W

    George W Active Member

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    The stock HID lamps.
     
    #3 George W, Dec 30, 2018
  4. DMC-5180

    DMC-5180 Active Member

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    HID’s tend to do things like that. It has to do with the energy output of the igniter to start the arc. Then the capsules go through the warm up stabilization process. I would consider it normal.


    iPhone X ?
     
    #4 DMC-5180, Dec 30, 2018
  5. WilDavis

    WilDavis Senior Member

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    If you have HIDs then the answer is "Yes! Perfectly normal!" :)
     
    #5 WilDavis, Dec 30, 2018
    Raytheeagle likes this.
  6. George W

    George W Active Member

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    Thank you. I purchased this 2008 Prius at the start of Summer when I didn't really drive during hours of darkness. The momentary surge made me wonder if this was age or battery related.
     
    #6 George W, Dec 30, 2018
  7. Skibob

    Skibob Senior Member

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    I have the same thing happen when I turn my headlights on.
     
    #7 Skibob, Jan 2, 2019
    George W likes this.
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