Understanding the HID Kits

HID lights may have been on the market for more than a decade (first introduced by Lincoln), but when the people in the know talk about them, it's as if they are speaking in an alien language. HID conversion of regular halogen headlamps is especially confusing. Not only is it confusing, but it could be costly if you purchase the wrong type.

Understanding which bulbs and HID kit will fit your vehicle is vital in using the product to its full potential. In a world where the H7 is more suitable than an H1 or 55w only runs at 1600k, it can be easy to find HID kits a little too complicated. When you are wanting to change from argon or halogen bulbs to a xenon gas discharge kit, you first must understand the terminology.

We'll start with the H number. H4 stands for the bulb fitment. It is used in halogen and regular OEM manufacturer terminology too. Honda's are generally H4 or H4H fitment. The bulb holder will only accept the certain type of bulb, therefore getting the H number correct is important.

HID kits will come with bulbs usually, and they are rated in power using watts. With xenon bulbs being brighter and more efficient, the normal ranges are around 35w-55w, although the higher the wattage is a little overkill for road use.

A HID bulb runs at an operating temperature which is measured by the heat in terms of Kelvin or the k after each bulb. A 1600k bulb runs at 1600 degrees Kelvin. The higher the number, usually means the brightness or whiteness of the bulb's results. Some manufacturers have blue tints to the bulbs which can help visibility, to show more of a daylight result when they are being used at night. This helps the driver not be affected by eye strain and tiredness as a result.

Finally, bi xenon hid bulbs are available for those who want to have both low and high beam HID lights.