Aftermarket Headlights for 2025
Updated: October 11, 2024
Aftermarket headlights are a cost-effective alternative to the OE headlight assemblies for replacing damaged lights. Also, this is a cost-effective alternative to the headlight retrofit and is an excellent solution for those who want to make their vehicle’s front fascia different and custom. Yet, when selecting a particular headlight assembly, it’s a real challenge to determine the featured brand on the market as of 2025.
A dozen well-known and recognizable aftermarket headlight brands are popular in the USA. Like every product, aftermarket lights by these brands have fans and critics of every brand we will cover. But it’s fair to say that, on average, the products by these brands feature similar quality and easy plug-and-play installation. So, when you decide which brand to go with, we recommend relying on your needs, budget, expectations, and design preferences.
TOP-5 Aftermarket Headlight Assembly: Brand Comparison
We have picked the five most popular brands that offer custom and aftermarket headlights in the USA. Each of these brands has plenty of good reviews, yet, just like with any other product, some people did not like something about aftermarket headlights. So, we’ve compiled the comparison table of America’s most popular headlight brands to make the selection process easier for you.
The featured and the least expensive aftermarket headlights
So, what will you be looking for when selecting the aftermarket headlights? First, think of the budget and your expectations. If you want headlights that look close to what you had on the vehicle from stock, you can find a quality aftermarket headlight set for $100-$150. You can consider such manufacturers as Spyder, Eagle, Depo, Spec-D, etc.
Custom headlights: things to look for
If you are seeking something custom, think of the design you like. Prices for custom headlights vary based on the technologies the lights employ. The American custom lighting aftermarket leaders are ANZO, Spec-D, Spyder, IPCW, and Recon. Here are some things you may be looking for when shopping for the popular aftermarket headlight assembly for your truck, car, or SUV:
- LED accents;
- LED strips;
- halo rings (LED, CCFL, plasma);
- projection lenses;
- compatibility with OE HID (xenon);
- U-bars;
- switchback DRL.
Are aftermarket headlights worth it?
We keep getting many questions like this. And, unfortunately, there is no single answer. Everyone has their views towards getting the aftermarket headlights on the vehicle. Plus, everything depends on the budget and brand you select.
Besides, if you do not plan to install the headlights by yourself, consider the installation cost and the fact that you will have to leave your vehicle in a shop for some time. We have collected the list of strengths and weaknesses of most aftermarket headlights. This will help you better understand the specs of aftermarket headlights vs the OE ones.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket headlights look different from the OE-style ones and add custom look to your car, truck or SUV. | Repairs of aftermarket headlights are costly, since the repair parts for them are not sold separately. |
| The majority of aftermarket lights you will find on Amazon or major automotive stores are SAE DOT approved, which makes them 100% street-legal. | Some headlights come without headlight bulbs (high, low beams and turn signals). |
| Custom headlights feature CCFL or LED halo rings for even more aggressive look. In the majority of the design options, these halo rings can be replaced when needed. | Headlights that feature LED strips that work together with turn signals might require additional load resistors for some vehicles. |
| Aftermarket headlights are available with projector and/or reflector beam pattern. They can be easily adjusted using the adjustment screws. | The majority of aftermarket headlights that feature built-in LED strips come with non-replaceable LEDs (when one burns out, it cannot be replaced). |
| Many custom headlights feature colored or color-changing accents, LED halo rings and other attractive details, that are unavailable with the regular stock headlights. | Many aftermarket headlight brands feature poor weather resistance, so it is a good idea to get the headlights sealed once you get your new assemblies from UPS. |
| Aftermarket lights come with everything needed for installation, including wiring and headlight bulbs. | Many aftermarket headlight manufacturers offer 30- or 90-day warranty. As soon as it is due, you cannot get them replaced or fixed if something goes wrong. |
| Installation of aftermarket lights is plug-and-play. This means that you will not have to cut into the wiring of your vehicle or rewiring. Also, it is easy to install aftermarket headlights, so anyone with basic technical skills can do that. | - |
| Aftermarket lights use CAD technology in order to boost performance and ensure precisely adjusted beam pattern. | - |
Euro headlights: Things to know
Euro headlights is an affordable way to jazz up the vehicle’s exterior. These headlights usually come without bulbs, but the housing differs from the stock. Aftermarket Euro headlights typically take the same bulb size as the original headlights. So, if that is the case, you can install the OE bulbs into the new Euro headlights. Upgrading aftermarket headlights to HIDs is not recommended, as xenon bulbs are not likely to focus right in the aftermarket housing.
Color-changing halo headlights
Regarding headlights with different designs and colors, color-shift headlights by Oracle Lighting are the absolute leaders. This is the most popular aftermarket lighting solution among those who want their vehicle to look different. Color-shift technology allows you to change the color to the one you like and back to white, not get a ticket from a police officer. Oracle Lighting features pre-assembled headlight assemblies with built-in halos and halo ring kits that one may want to wire in by themselves.
Note that there are quite impressive designs of color-changing demon eye headlights available on the market. Note, however, that some of these headlights may not be street-legal in certain states, especially if the color of LED accents is blue or red. These colors are forbidden to use for the vehicle lighting to avoid confusing with police cars.
A PRO tip. Some aftermarket headlights feature plastic exterior plastic lens, which are more fragile compared to the polycarbonate lenses used by the majority of carmakers. So, it is a good idea to think of headlight protection while the assembly is still new. You can have headlight protector film installed before the headlight installation to prolong the lifespan of your lights and protect the plastic from damage, chips, scratches, and UV fading. Make sure the film you select is made specifically for headlight protection. Otherwise, it may negatively influence the output and the formation of headlight beams.
ABOUT
Susan is a technical writer with years of experience in the technical sphere. Besides, she is a car enthusiast and never loses an opportunity to visit car events and racing. She is anxious about everything fast, loud, and bright. Now, she is a technical writer at HaloHeadlights.com and is glad to share her knowledge of car lighting with readers. You can ask Susan a question using the form.
I’m looking for some after market headlights for my 2011 Toyota 4Runner SR5. What do you have to offer?
Hey Robert,
I’m afraid the most popular headlight manufacturers, such as Spyder, Anzo, Spec-D, etc. do not have nice aftermarket headlights for your 4Runner. However, it is a good idea to upgrade your factory headlights by adding extra LED/CCFL halos to the OEM assemblies. This way, your lights will be truly custom. Plus, it’s not too hard to do if you have basic technical skills. We’ve got an article about that:
Aftermarket Halo Rings: Pros & Cons
If you are not sure how to do that but you wish to experiment with headlights, it’s better to keep your stock lights and gran a pair of OE-style aftermarket lights and install halos in them, then go ahead and install them instead of the stock lights. Even if you do not like what you’ll get, you always have an option to switch to the stocl headlights.
Hope this helps!
Thanks for the valuable info! I’m glad that I came across your site
Hi Susan,
Have you ever heard of a headlight from a company named Axial ? I am looking for a set of custom Headlights for my 2010 silverado 1500 and ran across the Axial name on American Truck site. I noticed your article doesn’t list the Axial brand , and I was wondering if you knew anything about the company.
Thanks,
Pete
Hey Pete, I know that Axial is a good brand. They offer a lot of quality products, which are popular among those, who are into off-road. Honestly, this brand is not too popular among car/truck owners, based on my own experience. However, we’ve installed their LEDs on Wrangler (I am talking about those round 8-inch lights with projector LEDs), and the product is quite good in terms of quality, connectors, etc. By the way, many people who have RC also say Axial products. Though I must say, I have never dealt with their headlights for Chevy trucks, so I really cannot comment on them. But overall, I haven’t heard bad reviews on them. Hope this helps!
Hey I purchased spec d headlight assembly and it came with everything but I can’t figure out why the halo isn’t working on low beam
Hey there, there may be a couple of things to consider. If you want your halos always on, hook them up to your driving lights. If that’s what you did, and the halos still won’t turn on with your low beams, check out the connector. The metal prongs in the connectors can be slightly bent, enough to cause the lights to not get power. See the picture in the attachment.
I have a 1997 Ford Ranger with the original factory headlights. I am not interested in Euro Style, Extra Chrome, Black Lenses, or Color Changing Halo type headlights. I am interested in clear headlamps that maximize light output.
What do you consider to be my best options?
Thank you.
Dennis
Hey Dennis, there are several options I see in this case. The first thing you want to have is a clear lens. Yellowish, faded, scratched plastic exterior lenses steal the light.
1) Get your stock lights polished. You can do this professionally or by yourself. Sylvania has got a great restoration kit, around $20 on Amazon, here’s the link for you. Note, that it is a must to use that UV polish after you complete the restoration. This way you will ‘seal’ your headlight lens that will prevent from getting yellowish and minimize UV impact. This is a good idea if your reflector is still in good condition.
2) If you feel, that the reflector is no longer good and you’d rather replace the whole headlight assembly, Dorman is the way to go, as long as you plan using halogen bulbs. By the way, a pair of good halogen bulbs will also be a great upgrade. I will give you the part numbers of Dorman headlights and Philips bulbs and will show where to find them on Amazon, though you can shop for them in any other place.
So, the part number for the driver side (Dorman) is 1590206, the passenger side is 1590206. By the way, let me give you the OE part numbers for your stock headlights for reference, just in case you need them in your research. Driver side: F37Z13008B, F37Z13007B; passenger side: F37Z13008A, F37Z13007A. As for the bulbs, see Philips or Sylvania, both are great.
3) If you consider getting brighter bulbs, halogens aren’t the only option. Think of getting an LED conversion kit. Good led bulbs focus right as they have the same length, as the stock halogen bulbs. Yet, they are brighter, last longer and are resistant to moisture, vibration, etc. as they do not have glass elements. Personally I like Hikari LEDs, but you can also check Katana, Akarui. If you decide to go with LEDs, you will also need an additional load resistor, as older vehicles may not recognize LEDs.
Hope this helps! These are the best ideas that came to my mind.
Hello Ms. Susan. Just wandering if know anything about the lumen brand automotive light assemblies whether the headlights or taillights. If there quality is equally as good as Anzo or Spyder. Thank you.
Victor S.
Hey Victor, we installed Lumen headlights, and they are not bad. Quality is equal to Spyder (quality of the plastic, connectors, etc.). As far as I know, carid.com carries the widest assortment of Lumen lighting. This is a budget-friendly aftermarket lighting brand, but, unlike Anzo and Spyder that back up their products with a 1 year/6 months warranty, Lumen has only 30 days warranty. I cannot say that this is bad or something, just want to let you know about this fact.
Hope this helps!
What about a 2012 Ford Focus sel 4 door Sedan
Hey Nicholas, there are so many great aftermarket headlights for your Ford. Let me give you a couple of options to consider.
1. Spyder black projector headlights with parking LEDs, part # PRO-JH-FF12-LED-BK. These are great headlights for the money, available in chrome and black. Unlike similar Spyder headlights part # PRO-YD-FF12-DRL-BK, they do not have that fiber optic DRL, but hey, they are $200 less expensive, look great and are made well. Note, they work only with Focuses that feature factory halogen bulbs, and will not work right if you have HIDs.
2. Spec-D Tuning Black projector headlights with switchback LEDs. Here is another great option, as long as you like that switchback effect. These headlights are around $250, and are made well, installation is very simple. Pay attention, that you need to activate that switchback LED function. I know, that these particular headlights have a couple of negative reviews on Amazon, but that’s because people did not activate that function and then wrote, that the lights are bad.
3. If you need nice aftermarket headlights that have fiber optic accents, do not go with Spyder or Spec-D. Anzo part # 121490 is nice, but is overpriced, as for me. CG offers almost the same headlights that are way less expensive and have the same functions (LED fiber accents, projector lenses, etc.). You will need part # 02-AZ-FU12-PBC-P-A. They are unavailable on Amazon, but many aftermarket headlight shops have them, just google by the part number.
Hope this helps!
Hello Susan, I have a 2010 yukon denali and I’m looking at headlight Assembly replacements. Which brand would be best for this vehicle? All the trim on the truck is chrome.
Hi Susan,
My 2005 Hyundai tuscon has crazed headlights. They need replaced. So many options! This is an old vehicle, but still runs well. Don’t want to spend a lot of money, but would like to upgrade to LEDs. Also would prefer plug and play. I don’t really want to wire it up to match the OEM plugin configuration. What would you suggest?
Thanks
Jim
Hi Susan ,
I have a 2000 F250 SUPERDUTY that I want to upgrade the headlight assemblies on . I would like to go with euro style with the led tube that follows the outside perimeter of the the lens like the new trucks have . Do you have a recommendation ?
Thanks for any feedback ,
Chris
Hi Susan, I have a 07 tundra and would like to upgrade my head lights. I have been looking into the projector style. What’s my best option for quality. Don’t want the cheapbest, dependability is most important. This being said I also don’t want the most expensive.
I’m glad I came across your site. Very helpful!
What about 2011 Chevy Silverado lt
Put spec d headlights in 02. Gmc 1500 worked for about. A week driver’s side main bulbs quit working changed bulbs now they are both very done one that side
Hey Joshua,
Usually the high and low beam bulbs that come along with Spec-D headlights are very dim. We recommend ordering quality Philips or Sylvania bulbs right when you order the headlights and get the new bulbs in right away.
Hi Susan, Which aftermarket manufacturer of front headlight assemblies would you recommend for a 2013 Nissan Altima SL Sedan 2.5 (original owner). My low beams are so dim that often I can’t tell if they are even on. Apparently this is a common problem with this specific model year in which Nissan will take no responsibility. I recently replaced my halogen bulbs with Sylvania SilverStar Ultra with no improvement. Original OEM parts from Nissan are outrageously priced at around $360 EA. Amazon sells sets of left and right units from manufactures Amerilite, Akkon, AMAutoparts in prices from $159 to $203. RockAuto lists TYC for individual unit prices of $99 NSF to $106 CAPA same part #. Is there a difference between NSF and CAPA? A few weeks ago they had Dorman assemblies for $109 each, but currently no longer available. Dorman HL Assemblies are available from AutoZone and others for $159 per unit. I have a automotive repair shop who said they would install my assemblies for $150, other than he said to be careful in what I purchase as some of these aftermarket units are not considered high quality and he recommended OEM parts. Thanks for any feedback or recommendations.
Hey there,
Here is what I can tell you from my experience. TYC is worse, than Dorman or Replace (I am talking about the materials of the connectors and plastic clips). I know Replace is available with a limited number of suppliers. I know that carid.com carries them.
Now, let me explain you something about CAPA certification and NSF.
NSF Certified: When the headlights or other OE-style products are marked NSF-Certifiesd, it means, that they are approved and accredited by NSF International. This is the organization that tests products to make sure they meet their standards of the collision management system. All the products that have this marking meet requirements of the Standard P377, that governs lighting certification of NSF program. Also, products approved by NSF are guaranteed to provide adequate performance, fit properly and function in terms of the warranty they have. All products that have this mark are backed up with limited lifetime warranty.
CAPA Certified: This is an extra certifiaction that is not required by the laws. Yet, this is the extra certification level that the manufacturers have to pay for, hence the prices for CAPA-certified products are higher. CAPA certification is a guarantee, that an independent testing facility has reviewed, inspected and approved a product in terms of corrosion resistance, fit and quality of materials. More info about their tests can be found at http://www.capacertified.org. CAPA certified parts feature a limited lifetime replacement warranty.
Overall, these are different kinds of certifications, with one being more costly, than the other. Hence the difference. In the majority of cases the manufacturers send the same products to CAPA and NSF.
Hope this helps!
I am looking for headlight and tail light assemblies for a 2016 RAM 1500 (not factory projector assemblies). I have looked at Spyder and VipMotoZ brands, but I’m not feeling real good about their 30 day warranty. I found them on Amazon. What is the overall best band for my truck, in your opinion?
Hey Matt,
Spyder is a good brand. If you are concerned about their 30-days warranty, let me tell you something. If the lights are defective, you will realize this once you attempt to install them. If everything works fine right away, most likely they will work for years. So it is a good idea to order the lights once you know, that you are ready to install them right away, as they start calculating those 30 days right after you get the delivery. The main aspects you should pay attention to when you inspect the lights are LEDs. We’ve seen Spyder tail lights and headlights with defective LED connection, so a part of LED won’t work. But you will see these defects right away. What we do not like about aftermarket lights are the incandescent bulbs that come with Spyder lights, so it is a good idea to order bulbs right away. Go with Philips or Sylvania bulbs, they are great. Just make sure you order the right bulb size (it is specified in the description of aftermarket headlights you will be shopping for). Note, that the bulb size Spyder or VipMotoZ lights take differs from the bulb size of your stock lights. VipMotoZ is also a good brand, but it is less popular, compared to Spyder. The other good brands you can check are Anzo (I love their U-Bar headlight design for the RAM 1500), Spec-D, Oracle Lighting (as long as you like those color-shift halo rings or LED strips), Recon (they are more expensive, but have great design options the other manufacturers do not offer).
Hope this helps!
okay, i have a 1995 oldsmobile aurora and i was just wondering where i could find an aftermarket headlight assembly for it, i was looking for a led, clear lens ,but black housing assembly.
I have a 1995 Oldsmobile Aurora and I wondering where i could find a custom headlight assembly, because i wanted a led, clear lens, but black housing assembly. thank you
Hey there, I’m afraid the major manufacturers of the aftermarket lights do not offer such custom headlights for the 95 Aurora. If you are looking for a custom solution and have basic tools and technical skills, you could work on a custom project if you wish to.
Hope this helps!
Hey Drew,
I’m afraid there are no aftemarket lights for the 95 Aurora. However, you may wish to do the custom project.
2003 Dodge 1500
Are there any aftermarket headlight assembly not made in China?
Hi Susan
I have a 2005 Silverado 2500 HD WT pick up and I want to replace the original lights, the original ones are old and shot.
What headlights, running lights tail lights and Brake light on roof would you recommend that would be easy to install.
Hey David,
Seems like you are planning a great project! In general, aftermarket lights by Spyder, Spec-D and Anzo are the easiest ones to install. The installation is just plug-and play. The only thing you will hve to wire separately are halo rings. However, this is quite simple: you will just wire them directly to the DRLs and you are good to go! Their products are not overpriced, which is another benefit. The only thing that many people are asking about is 30-day warranty (Spyder, Spec-D). You know, if you get a defective set of lights, the defects will show up within a day or 2, so you will have plenty of time to set up a return/exchange. So if you are looking for fair prices, these brands are good to go. If you are ready to pay $80+ more, pay arttention at the IPCW and Morimoto.
If you are looking for headlights with LED accents that come with the bumper lights and will not break the bank, consider these black halo projector headlights by Spyder (part # PRO-JH-CSIL03-SET-BK – they will work on your truck as long as you do not have body cladding). The price is around $200 for headlights and bumper lights. Note, that the bulb size of these headlights will differ from what you’ve got in your stock lights. These specific lights take H1 (high beam) and H3 (low beam). However, the bulbs that come in the kit are not bright enough, so I recommend getting good light bulbs separately (Sylvania, Philips will work fine).
If you are looking for inexpensive LED side marker lights, check out Spyder part # ACC-LED-GMD99-SL-C (around $30).
Why do all the brands sell the exact same headlight assemblies as their own brand? Are they the same product but branded and marketed as their own?
Hello Susan
I am wring from Norway. I am intend changing my 2008 toyota sequoia. headlights but looking at VIPMOTOZ – AZN-SOH-TTU07V2-LB-BK and ANZO U bar. My main concern or what I place more immortant is
1. The headlight not taking in moisture or water
2. Bulbs burning out
3. One that will last without fading
The Anzo U bar sell at $376 and VIPMOTOZ $275.
Are you able to advise which of these is the better option? Please share your thoughts on this. I will be very grateful to hear from you.
Hi Susan! Enjoyed reading your site and the useful information. I can across it AFTER I made a purchase of ACANII Mono-eye LED DRL Halo Protector headlights for my 2013 Ram 1500 and the LED strip and Halo stopped working. I want to say this occurred after I was buffing my truck. I think the vibration from the buffer may have loosened a connection somewhere. If you have any input I’d be very grateful.
I’m trying to decide between Anzo Switchbacks or the Alpharex Pro series for my 2018 Silverado HD. Can’t seem to find any real knowledgeable reviews or comparison… any help?
Hi Susan,
My wifes car headlights are so dim you can’t drive it at night. It is a common problem on 2014 SRX base model. If bring it to the dealer and have replaced it will happen again in time. I was looking at anzo replacement. Your input would mean a lot.
Thank you
I recently purchased a replacement passenger side headlight Assembly for my ’05 Buick Lacrosse, and I went with a brand called “Eagle Eyes”, or maybe it’s just Eagle, I found that the price for my particular headlight needed was great with this brand compared to others that I looked at before making my purchase, and I’m just curious as to what pros or cons you might know or have to say about this Brand, any feedback, whether it being positive or negative, would greatly be appreciated
Hello,
I need to replace assemblies for 2004 Corolla CE and don’t need anything fancy. What do you recommend? Thank you.
Hi Susan, I have a 2010 Silverado 1500 4X4. My stock headlight coverings has faded beyond repair and well honestly I just don’t like them anymore. I am restoring my truck. I have a custom 6 inch lift and custom tires and rims. Brand new motor and many other add ons. I want a black but not completely black headlight housing really bright light output. Not so bright that drivers can’t see but bright. I’m getting older lol. After reading your comments I realize there is a lot more to know than just picking out what looks cool. I think the projector style looks cool I’m not into chrome or a lot of shiny surfaces Solid black won’t look good but black with a little reflective surfaces is good with clear glass Hope that makes since. The projector types looks cool. Then I read halogen lights run to hot and have a short life. I read leds are the best. So I have no clue now what to get. Price is not a huge big deal. Anything under $400 is good. I just need your advice.
Hey Kay,
Wow, I wish I could see the truck. Let me give you a couple of part numbers that I like, based on the combination of price and quality, and that cost under $400, or just a little bit more.
Now, let me tell you something about the aftermarket headlights.
1) Sometimes these lights may have flaws in the sealing. To fix this you can seal them right away (using black silicone sealant).
2) Almost all aftermarket headlights come with low-quality bulbs. I recommend getting the bulb size right away, as it will differ from the one your stock lights take. Next, go ahead and buy a set of good halogen headlight bulbs by Philips or Sylvania. They are bright and are easy to adjust. You can also get a good LED conversion set if you wish to (again, note the bulb size you need). Yet, using aftermarket headlights with LEDs for high/low beams will void the warranty.
Hope this helps!
Hi Susan
I have a 2013 Tahoe that I was considering upgrading the taillights and front headlights I’m looking at the Syder brand and wanted to know if that’s a good brand as far as weather resistance and quality if not want other option do you recommend and also do I need to seal the lights after installation and if so how to that
Hey Gerald,
Spyder is a good option. Sometimes they may have flaws in seals. Yet, if this is a concern for you, simply buy a tube of black silicone and apply it where the polycarbonate lens meets the plastic. Still, I will give you the other great brands to consider along with the part numbers of the lights you may like:
Hi Susan,
I was wondering if you have got alot of bad reviews on the syder 5082565 DRL LED headlight and if so what is the best brand on the market right now for a 2013 Tahoe. I also saw some reviews that stated the stock lights that come with the headlight are dim so what would be the fix for this ?
Hey Gerald,
I cannot say the lights you’ve mentioned (Spyder® PRO-YD-CSUB07V2-DRL-BK – Black LED DRL Bar Projector Headlights) are bad. They are a good value for the money. Sure thing, every product you order online can potentially come with a manufacturer defect, and sometimes this happens with aftermarket headlights. Yet, I cannot say this happens too often with Spyder. This is not the worst option for the 2013 Tahoe you can find on Amazon or eBay. I have seen this particular model by myself, as we did the installation on a 2014 Tahoe. I am sure there is almost no difference between 2013 and 2014. Yes, the bulbs are dim, and that’s because Spyder, Spec-D, Anzo, and many other brands ship their lights with chip halogen bulbs. If you buy a set of good bulbs (Sylvania/Osram, Philips), you will be amazed by the light quality. Note that the stock headlight bulbs in yourhttps://halo-headlights.com/wp-admin/edit-comments.php#comments-form OEM headlight assemblies are not going to work in these aftermarket headlights, as bulb size differs. So, it is good to buy a set of H7 bulbs for your low beams and H1 bulbs for high beams and install them right away.
I hope this info helps you.
Hey Susan. I have a 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 4×4 and looking to replace my headlight assembly. My truck is dark gray and I have almost changed all chrome accessories to black. I am looking at the Bryght Black headlight assembly since it is a black housing with a clear lens. What at you thought on the Bryght brand?
Hey Chad,
As long as you are about to order just a headlight assembly, without the bulbs included, Bryght is okay. This is the regular plastic assembly, nothing too special. Yet, the design is good. If you want good advice from me, I’d go with nice halogen bulbs (pick something like Philips or Sylvania). And, consider the installation of a clear protective film on each light. This way, your lights will last longer, as this kind of plastic lasts way less than the plastic of your OE headlights.
Hi Susan , I have a 2001 Mercedes slk 230 , I am seeking advice on which aftermarker brand would be my best option for my model. I am looking for a projection headlight with plug and play capability and Halo effect. Low beam brightness is a must. I would expect long lasting quality. Any help would be useful.
Hi Steve,
Seems like there is not much I can recommend from what is available for your Mercedes. If you are looking for plug-and-play installation lights, consider these Spyder headlights: part # PRO-JH-FESC08-LB-BK (Spyder black halo projector headlights). They look sharp and will not break the bank. My recommendation is not to use the light bulb that comes with the headlights from Spyder, as it is of poor quality and will not last. You can get a pair of quality Sylvania or Philips bulbs instead to benefit from the brightness and properly angled beam. For these Spyder headlights, you will need the following bulb size: H3 low/high beam.
Alternatively, you can try retrofit (installation of an aftermarket headlight projector lens into your factory headlights). Yet, this process is not so easy and you will have to do a certain job to install the lenses, seal the headlight assemblies, and then angle the lenses properly. Still, this is also an option.
Hope this helps!
Looks like you know your stuff Susan! I bought a set of projector headlights from Spyder for my 06 F350 but I’m seeing in reviews they go thru bulbs in 2-3 weeks. Sumthin ain’t right there. I’ve not installed them yet,can I do something in advance to correct that? Thanks, Scott
Hey Scott,
True story. The headlight bulbs that come in a set with Spyder headlights are cheap and they do not last long. Besides, they are not bright enough. So I always recommend people getting the bulb size of the aftermarket headlights they order right when they are placing an order. So, they can always order a pair or 2 of quality Philips or Sylvania headlight bulbs and install them right away. Normally, Spyder headlights take a different bulb size than the OE headlights. I believe this is the easiest option.
Hi Susan,
You forgot to mention Morimoto. They are considered the best in the world. Sadly, many people can’t afford them. I got a heavy discount and replaced all the lights in my truck with Morimotos. Best lights I ever used.
Hey there,
Yeap, Morimotos are really great! I am preparing great material about them.
Hello Susan – I’m looking for headlamp assemblies for a 2003 Suburban Z71. Don’t really want anything custom looking. My first priority is I need something much brighter with a more stock look. Any suggestions would be greatly appricated.
Hey Ray,
If I were you, I’d just pick a pair of aftermarket headlights and a set of quality headlight bulbs.
If you are looking for a great combo, think of something like Spyder Xtune HD-JH-CSIL99-BK (black lights). They take the following bulb sizes:
Grab a set of Philips or Sylvania bulbs of the bulb sizes that will fit into your new lights.
Hope this helps!
Hello Susan, We need replacement headlight assemblies for our 2013 Nissan Altima. Tried TYC big mistake, had to return. Now we don’t know what brand to try. Would like a quality product not something cheaply made. Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Jim
Hey Jim,
If you are looking for OE-style headlights, consider genuine OE headlights. They are made by Nissan and for Nissan. I will give you the link where you can select the body style of your Altima and see the part numbers and approximate prices. https://www.carid.com/2013-nissan-altima-oem-headlights/ Next, you can order these lights from your dealer, lookup used OE headlights, or order from CARiD. Again, we do not get commissions from these guys. This site gives good explanations of what you get and what part numbers you need for certain specs (xenon or halogen lights, body styles, etc).
HI Susan,
You obviously have an impressive wealth of knowledge on this subject and hoping you can help me. My 20 yr old son wanted to upgrade his 2006 Toyota Tacoma and ordered tail lights and headlights on Amazon. Tail lights seem to be fine but the headlights (which he thought were Spyder) turned out to be a knock off. Listing said street legal but a big yellow sticker on box said they are for off road and showroom only and not street legal and if you lose property or life for using on road/highway, they are not responsible. Needless to say I freaked out. He had already installed and I immediately went to test beams. It was dark out and he was parked right in front of garage so we turned truck on to see light output on garage door. I was shocked at the low level output. Turned my car (parked next to his) on for output comparison. My beams spread wide, no interruption, bright. His were dim, reflection on garage doors were two perfect circles about 2.5 feet in diameter each with a gap in middle. So they would provide terrible coverage in actual driving scenario. I’m returning them for inaccurate listing. In trying to find another set today, I have been trying to research the actual Spyder brand to make sure its safe. Part of my worry comes from the yellow sticker on that box of knock offs. It said “this Spyder product”….So maybe this guy was selling his knock-offs and packed them in a Spyder box? But for this warning sticker that say’s “Spyder” to also say “the enclosed product may be hazardous and create an unsafe condition if used on roads or highways…” made me question Spyder as a brand. Found some reviews about light output on different Spyder models being low, problems with weather resistance, and problems with Spyder’s customer service. At Better Business Bureau site, Spyder defends itself by saying they don’t sell to public and consumers have to go to vendors with their problems. But the vendors I’ve seen all say they are not responsible and you have to go to Spyder for problems. I see the majority of the reviews are good but I just want to make sure my son has safe lights. The model he wants is 5084514 Black Projector Headlights. I know you commented several times on having replacement bulbs ready, even for initial install, but In reading about bulb issues, I’ve read that if you change the bulbs you void the warranty. Of course it sounds like warranty is a bit of a joke anyway if Spyder won’t deal with you. I’ve seen your recommendations on the Spyder brand itself and it makes me hopeful that these lights will be ok but I just want to make sure my son is safe. Do you have any advice for me?
Hi, Susan I have a 2004 GMC Sonoma that I’m looking for LED strip or HALO lights do you have any recommended options?
Hey Levi,
I will give you a couple of options that I’ve seen with my own eyes. You can check them out and then select what you like more based on specs, budget, etc.
1) EVO Lighting, part # 93216. An LED halo ring kit with quality wires. Available in blue and white colors. Around $45 on Amazon.
2) XK Glow, part # 042008-80. No link, as I couldn’t find it on Amazon real quick for you. But you can try looking up this set by yourself, or check it out on their official site. It is a set of color-changing halos with a Bluetooth app. So you can select the color right from your phone. The price for a set of 2 halos + wiring + LED controller is around $150, as far as I remember.
3) A set of 4 halo rings by Morimoto, part number EDC01137. This kit is great, as well as all products by Morimoto. Yet, the price is around $180, and the controller is not included, and you have to buy it separately (part # LED153).
That’s what I can recommend in terms of quality and price combination. Note, that you will have to reseal your headlights after you disassemble them, so make sure you have sealant handy.
Hope this helps!
Hello.
My question is what light bulb can I use. I have a 2105 ram. I have the projector headlights with halo and led strip. The low beam is Dime and dingy. It does not have the factory plug that comes off the head light just the 2 prongs. I’m looking for super white lights. Do you sell the plug in play for low beam cause if so I can use my bulbs from my other headlights.
Hey Susan, my wife drives a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. I was looking for aftermarket headlight assemblies that are reliable for her. I’ve been looking and it seems that everywhere is 3-3 1/2 stars in reviews. Do you have any regimentations?
Hey there,
Here are 2 headlight assemblies I can recommend:
Hope this helps!
Hey Susan,
I was looking for after market headlight assembly for my wife’s 2012 Hyundai Sonata SE 2.0 T
I found some however it seems that all of their reviews are 3-3 1/2 stars. Do you have any suggestions of some companies that might be more reliable? Also her halogens are super weak so I was just going to do a LED swap if nothing else.
Thanks!
Hey Matt,
Sure thing, you can do LEDs instead of halogens. Just make sure you a pick good LED conversion kit (Hikari, Akarui, Nineo are good enough and will not blind the oncoming traffic as long as you adjust them properly). There are many $20 LED kits that are truly dangerous, so make sure to pick something reliable.
You can also try replacing the factory headlight bulbs with halogens by Osram/Sylvania or Philips. This way you will not have to alter the lights a lot and will see the difference. This is the first step I’d try.
As for the aftermarket headlights that I can recommend from my experience, see the list below. Note, that almost all aftermarket headlight assemblies are shipped with poor-quality headlight bulbs. So I always recommend replacing them right away with halogen bulbs by Sylvania or Philips. This is one of the reasons why people write reviews saying headlights are bad. Almost in every case, I’d say the bulbs are dim, but the headlight assembly is pretty much okay. Yet, make sure to pick the proper bulb size for the aftermarket headlights, as it will differ from the bulb size your wife’s vehicle has got from the factory.
Spec-D® – Matte Black LED DRL Bar Projector Headlights with Sequential Turn Signal, part # LHP-SON11JM-VD. These lights work with factory halogen headlights, and will not fit hybrid models. Note, that these lights require proper installation of the sequential turn signal. Many people do not know, how to do that, and say, that the lights are defective. In fact, this is just an installation mistake. Here is our article with a good explanation of sequential turn signal installation: Sequential Lights Do Not Work. By the way, these lights have the same bub size as the OEM ones, so you can use your stock bulbs. Yet, if you do not like the light output, I’d replace them, as I said before.
Spyder® – Black LED DRL Bar Projector Headlights, part # PRO-YD-HYSON11V2-LBDRL-BK. Bulb sizes: H7 for high and low beams. Fits the following models: 2.0T / 2.0T Limited / GL / GLS / Limited / SE. Also, these lights do not require an extra CCFL inverter.
Hope this helps!
I’m looking for aftermarket headlights and taillights for my 2010 Altima coupe, I’ve been looking everywhere and haven’t found any yet. Any recommendations?
Hey Anthony,
There is only 1 aftermarket tail light option that I can recommend for your Altima Coupe:
Anzo® – Black LED Tail Lights part # 321194. They are nice and are backed up with a 1-year warranty. The price is around $400 per pair.
You can look them up on Amazon or in any other aftermarket part shop you like. Just provide the part number.
I hope this helps!
Hello Susan,
I have a 94 chevy Silverado k1500 with 5.7 gas, and I am trying to find info on Keystone Collision headlight assey. GM#2503101c,GM#20502101c. They off a five-year warranty! The GM # is what is on their web site, and they appear to make parts for Advanced auto!!! I cannot find any reviews.
Hi there,
Well, these headlights are good enough. The GM part #s they provide is for the customers to know what part numbers they replace.
Overall, Keystone offers many aftermarket products (including heating/cooling parts, suspension, and more). Not just the lights.
If you are looking for a less expensive alternative to the dealer’s lights, Keystone is the way to go. The lights install exactly like your factory headlights. Cutting into the wires is not required, as long as you do not plan to install something extra along with the new lights (color-changing halos, for example). However, if you wish to keep the 5-year warranty the manufacturer offers, it is strongly recommended not to alter the wiring. Plus, make sure to keep your order confirmation.
Yet, from my experience, I can say that I have seen manufacturer’s defects on Keystone parts just a couple of times. And there is no problem getting them exchanged for the non-defective set.
I hope this info helps you out!
need headlights assembley for 2016 nissan altima with running lights
Hey Raymond,
Is your Altima a coupe or a sedan? If it’s a sedan, here are 2 options Spyder offers for your vehicle:
Hope this helps!
Hi Susan, I have a 1998 ram 1500 wanting to replace headlight assemblies due to one of the housings being broken. The 2 options I’m picking from is Eagle eyes or DEPO. They’re both similar in cost. Which one would you pick.? Thanks in advance.!
Edgar
Hey Edgar,
I’d pick Depo, as they pass way more certifications than K Metal, Eagle Eyes or other similar headlight manufacturers.
Hope this helps!
Hi Susan, I need to replace the headlight assemblies on my 2004 Nissan Maxima. My stock headlight coverings have faded beyond repair. I’m concerned about choosing a replacement that fits properly and is plug and play. What would you recommend?
Thanks in advance!
Melissa
Hey Melissa,
If the only concern is plug-and-play installation, you can pick any headlights that feature an OE-style design.
I will provide a couple of headlight options for you along with part numbers and bulb sizes so that you have all the info handy. Just make sure to make a purchase in one of the certified shops to make sure you are getting the warranty. Also, I’d recommend to replace the headlight bulbs right away, as the bulbs that come with the lights are not bright enough. Just pick the proper bulb size of halogen bulbs by Sylvania or Philips to enjoy the great light output.
I hope this helps!
I need replacement headlight assemblies for a 2014 Hyundai Sonata GLS that we bought for our daughter. I don’t want to spend a ton or get into complicated installation. We just want something that is pretty decent quality. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks.
Hi Donna,
Congrats on the purchase! I hope your daughter is happy about the new vehicle.
Here are 2 headlight sets that are good in terms of price, quality, and ease of installation. The installation is pretty much plug-and-play, so you do not have to cut into wiring and do something complicated. Both are by Spec-D Tuning, as there are not too many manufacturers who offer aftermarket headlight options for the 2014 Sonata GLS. Note, that these lights work only with the vehicles that have regular halogen headlights (not HID/Xenon). I am 90% sure, that your daughter’s vehicle has got regular non-xenon headlights. Still, it is better to check this before buying headlights.
Here is one more recommendation. These aftermarket headlights come with light bulbs for the high and low beams. Yet, these bulbs are not quality enough, so I’d replace them right away with the bulbs by Philips or Sylvania (Osram). I’d order a set for the high and low beams right away, to avoid doing an extra installation job again.
I hope this helps!
Hey, Susan. You definitely seem to know your stuff, so I thought I would share with you my problem and get your opinion on it. I have a 2 Door 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe. My Tahoe had a set of headlights/parking lights with black housings. My headlight beams were horrible. Low beam would barely shine a few feet and the high beam looked as though you were parked in front of a tree. The lighting was scattered as though there was a net over the headlight lenses. I thought it may had been the black housings, so I bought a new set of headlights with chrome housings and clear lenses. They were DNA Motoring HL-OH-8P-C10-3G-CH-AM. I also purchased a set of Auxito LED bulbs for the new housings. They were just as bad as the black housing headlights and the beam pattern was the same. Low beam would still barely shine a few feet on the road and the high beam, again, looked as though it was being shined through tree branches. It was horrible. So, I thought maybe the housings were not made for LED and switched the bulbs back to halogen. Still, it looked the same. I tried adjusting the headlights, but they would not adjust. Turning the adjusting screw did nothing. It would not move. I had posted in a couple of forums my issue, and some members told me that it could be the brand and cheap housings. My uncle said that it could be the mirrors in the housings. They have small lines on them, making squares in the housing. He said that could be the issue. However, I looked at other name brands, and they are made the same way. So, wouldn’t this mean that all of them would have the same issue, or am I missing something? I want to find a nice set of headlights, but also want to be able to have good lighting when driving at night. I have looked at OEM style housings, as well as other brand, including Anzo, Spyder, Spec-D, Eagle Eyes, etc. What would you suggest? I have pictures of what the lighting on the road looks like, but don’t know how to upload it. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
I am replacing the headlight assemblies for my wife’s 2010 Toyota Corolla S, built in USA vehicle (dark gray color). We are older and looking at function, reliability, and the best lighting for driving (especially night driving). We want LED headlights because of durability and illumination. Cost is not a big consideration (but looking at around $500 for housings and bulbs); we want great illumination at a cost-effective price. I am comfortable with either LED assemblies or with converting factory style assemblies with led bulbs. Please provide me some options that you would recommend for both upgrade paths.
Susan, interesting reading here. Can you tell me which Mfg uses Lexan instead of polycarbonate?
Not sure why anyone would use poly, since it scratches and cracks easy.
Hey there,
I know, that KC HiLites use Lexan for sure. There are many other brands that have Lexan headlights in their selections as well, along with the polycarbonate ones.
Hope this helps!
Good Evening Susan, or “Good’ whatever time your reading my email. My names Chris S. & i was recently in some bad luck car accidents where both of my ’15 Obsidian Black 3.7t/’17 Brown Metallic 3.0tt Infiniti Q50’s were totalled. Lost a bunch of cash so i was forced to pick up a ’10 Corolla S w/90k miles plus needs ALOT of love in order to become a car i’m proud to drive. Besides needin both bumpers, both rocker panels, hood, stereo, front grills & wheels upgraded or replaced, i DESPERATLY need a set of badass super bright headlights, fog lights, and tail lights! I’ve been canvasing the internet for days but i just keep coming across the same options. If u can recommend some options to me i would be very grateful for your help. Hoping to have options such as black smoke lenses, dual halo projectors w/RGB color shift OR if theres higher quality plug-in bulbs for dual halo’s that u recommend. To be quite honest, i’m a complete amateur concerning automotive lighting which is why i emailed u in the 1st place so forget the rest of the email & just give me some great advice on smoked lense, gorgeous bright as heck halo beams that can be shifted to any RGB shade. Oh yeah, PLEASE dont forget the fog light and tail light recommendations as well….i love the blacked out, super bright beam style lighting with minimal install efforts. Thanks for taking the time to read this email & for any advice you may give me.
Good Evening Chris,
I’m really sorry to hear about your recent unfortunate events, but it’s admirable how you’re rolling up your sleeves to give your ’10 Corolla S a fresh and eye-catching look. I’ve got some recommendations that should fit your specifications, so let’s dive right into it.
**Headlights**
For a stylish upgrade, I’d recommend looking at dual halo projector headlights with RGB color shifting options. Spyder Auto is a brand I’ve seen delivering reliable and high-quality products. They offer a variety of dual halo projector headlights with a smoked lens finish, and you can pair them with a good quality RGB LED controller to get that color shift you’re after.
In terms of plug-in bulbs for dual halos, look into high-performance LED bulbs from brands like Philips or Sylvania. They provide bright, white light for better visibility, and are generally straightforward to install.
**Fog Lights**
A great option for fog lights with the blacked-out, super bright style you mentioned could be the LED fog lights from Autosaver88. They come with a black housing that gives a sleek look, and the LEDs provide bright, focused light to improve visibility in foggy conditions.
**Tail Lights**
For tail lights, check out the LED options from Spyder Auto or AnzoUSA. They have a variety of designs, some of which come with black housing for that smoked look. Not only are these bright and stylish, but they’re also pretty simple to install.
Remember, while these recommendations should suit your requirements, it’s crucial to confirm their compatibility with your specific car model before purchasing.
Lastly, since you mentioned you’re an amateur concerning automotive lighting, I’d suggest considering professional installation for these parts, especially the RGB controller for your headlights, as it could require some electrical know-how.
Thanks for reaching out, Chris, and best of luck with your Corolla S makeover! Feel free to get in touch if you need any more advice. I’m here to help.
Drive safe and take care.
Recommendations of headlights? I need bright & black housing.. 2017 bighorn
If you are looking for bright and black headlights for your 2017 RAM Bighorn, there are a few recommendations to consider.
One option is the Morimoto XB LED headlights. They are known for their brightness and high-quality build. However, they are on the expensive side. Another option that is more budget-friendly is the AlphaRex headlights. They offer a range of styles and are also known for their brightness.
If you prefer to keep your stock headlights, you can upgrade the bulbs to something brighter. The Fahren H11/H9/H8 LED Headlight Bulbs are a popular choice. They offer 10,000 lumens and are easy to install.
It’s important to note that upgrading to brighter headlights can sometimes cause issues with glare and blinding oncoming drivers. To avoid this, make sure to properly align and aim your headlights after installing them.
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that there are a few Facebook groups dedicated to headlight modifications, such as Headlight Junkies and Headlight Retrofitters. These groups can be a great resource for advice and inspiration if you’re interested in customizing your headlights.
In conclusion, if you want to improve the brightness and appearance of your headlights, you have several options to consider. Whether you choose to upgrade to aftermarket headlights or simply install brighter bulbs in your stock headlights, make sure to prioritize safety and aim your headlights properly to avoid causing issues for other drivers on the road.
Greetings!
I am the owner of a 2002 Acura RSX Type S, and I have encountered several issues with the original halogen headlight setup. Currently, both lamps require replacement, and I am interested in upgrading to LED headlights. However, I am unsure about the process of doing so, and I have found the information on Google to be rather perplexing and conflicting. Some sources suggest that I only need projector lamps, while others recommend a conversion kit, and yet more suggest that significant rewiring is necessary. It’s all quite confusing. Can anyone provide a clear and concise explanation of how to upgrade? Alternatively, could you direct me towards a reliable resource? I would be incredibly grateful for your assistance!
Are you having trouble upgrading your Acura RSX Type S halogen headlight system to LED or Xenon? It can be quite confusing with so much conflicting information online. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place for assistance.
To begin with, there are two types of lighting systems: LED and Xenon. LED is relatively new, and the entire headlight assembly must be made to accommodate it. On the other hand, Xenon is a well-established technology, and any car with projector lamps can be upgraded to it. Be sure to use a projector lamp because using a non-projector will scatter light everywhere with little benefit to you and blind oncoming traffic.
It’s important to note that in many countries (such as the USA and EU), Xenon/HID projectors are legally required to be self-leveling, so you may need to keep this in mind and consider the cost of sensors, etc.
Most aftermarket LED systems are going to be decorative types, such as daytime running lights (DRLs). HIDs are a more established technology, and you’ll have more options with them for primary headlight systems. The quality of the ballast system often differentiates one from the other.
If your main reason for wanting an upgrade is longevity, try using major brand long-life halogens rated for 800-1,000 hours instead of the usual 300 hours for regular halogens and as little as 200 hours for “performance” halogens. Ensure that you don’t directly touch the bulbs when installing them; use gloves or paper towels to avoid oil from your hands, which can cause premature failure. Also, check your alternator output voltage at 2,500 RPM. If it’s much more than 15V, the bulbs can burn out prematurely.
Hopefully, this clears up any confusion you may have had regarding upgrading your headlights.
Can you suggest some headlights? I’ve attached a picture for reference (Nissan 350z). I got the car recently, but I’ve noticed that the headlights are not very bright. I already tried changing the bulbs, but I suspect it might be a wiring problem or simply poor-quality headlights.
Based on the information provided, it seems that the most recommended headlights for the Nissan 350Z are the OEM HR headlights or DEPO headlights. DEPO headlights are a good option as they are more affordable than the OEM HR headlights but still provide an OEM+ look. It’s important to note that if you choose to install either of these headlights, they will need to also get new bulbs and ballasts to go with the new headlights. You may also decide to go further and find a good source for customized HR halogen headlights. It’s recommended to do further research and consider purchasing from reputable brands or vendors.