Lexus IS: Aftermarket Headlight Reviews

Replacing the headlights can change the whole look of the Lexus IS. Here's a review of some aftermarket headlights.

By Bart Kempff - December 11, 2014

This article applies to the Lexus IS (2005-2013).

You have many choices when it comes to aftermarket headlights for your Lexus IS. The four primary types of aftermarket headlight kits generally support an upgraded bulb package which will support OEM, LED, Halogen, and HID, also known as Xenon headlights. We will review four different brands below, and give you the attributes for each. Depending on your driving technique and the region in which you live, any one of these headlights choices may be appropriate. The bottom line is that most aftermarket headlight decisions are simply made by personal taste as well as what you feel most comfortable with while driving, and how you want your Lexus IS to appear to other drivers.

Aftermarket Headlights


Vision X Sealed Beam
Rampage Halogen
KC LED
Performance 30% more output than OEM 60% more output than OEM 60% more output than OEM
Material

Glass lenses

Polycarbonate lenses

UV protected Polycarbonate lenses

Legality DOT compliant DOT compliant DOT compliant
Shape Round or Squared Round or Squared Round
Warranty 1 year 90 days 23 years
Kit Price $65 $85 $184
Best Quality: KC LED

Best Value: Rampage Halogen

Vision X Sealed Beam

Performance - 30% more output than OEM

Material - Glass lenses

Legality - DOT compliant

Shape - Round or Squared

Warranty - 1 year

Price - $65

This is a standard replacement from your current OEM. This product will give you slightly better performance than your current headlights, and will last for several years. Recommended if you are looking for better lighting than OEM without spending too much money.

Rampage Halogen

Performance - 60% more output than OEM

Material - Polycarbonate lenses

Legality - DOT compliant

Shape - Round or Squared

Warranty - 90 days

Price - $85

Halogen headlights are currently one of the most popular aftermarket headlights available. They offer a performance upgrade from the OEM; however, their shorter life span and short warranty time make them less attractive than some of the other brands. Recommended if you are looking for strong lighting and you don't care about the warranty.

KC LED

Performance - 60% more output than OEM

Material - UV protected Polycarbonate lenses

Legality - DOT compliant

Shape - Round

Warranty - 23 years

Price - $184

LED headlights are currently the most high performance aftermarket headlight available. With their combination of long life, low energy use, and warm lighting on the road, KC's are a top of the line aftermarket purchase for Lexus IS owners. Recommended if you are looking for best quality and you don't mind spending the money.

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