Hello,
I've been searching and reading through the forums with no definitive answers. I may be searching incorrectly so feel free to chastise me. I have a 2001 Lexus GS430. The driver side headlight was replaced last year by the insurance. The passenger side is the original and is very oxidized, as is common. I want to replace it with a new one. I was wondering if anyone could tell me if the lenses/housing assembly is the same for Xenon and Halogen units. I understand the difference between xenon and halogen bulbs. I know that the xenon ones are equipped with the auto leveler/computer. I'm assuming that these parts can all be simply moved to the new headlight. Is this correct? I just wasn't sure if the xenon came with a special tint or anything. The parts look and seem to be the same for the 98-05 GS models. So for example, if I retro-fitted a xenon bulb with all the appropriate auto leveler computer components and such to an existing halogen unit, would that be the same as what they do at the factory? I ask because I have my eye on one that's on eBay, looks great, genuine OEM, and the seller assures me that it hasn't been restored, polished, etc. etc. Price is $200 or best offer. If the seller accepts $150, I want to jump on it. The only thing is in the description he says NON Xenon. Actually specifically it says "NONE" Xenon. I THINK he means no Xenon bulb included. So is there a difference in the lens housings themselves? Any knowledge or advice you could please share with me is GREATLY appreciated. Thank you kindly!

 

hid and halogen housing are different. the back side mirror reflective panels are different between the two

if you have, should get a hid housing. i am not sure about all the mounting mechanism for the computers and ballasts, they could be different too

and you also have to be careful on the front lens tinting. different years and the tinting are a bit different too. i can't remember anymore, i think certain years they are a bit greenish, some are clear, and then there is a smokier version too

good luck. i am moving this to the 2gs forum for more exposure

 

Ah, I see. That is what I was afraid of, and that is what was confusing me. Because I saw some that said "green" tint, others that didn't etc. I really appreciate your super quick response. You have saved me from a potentially costly mistake. I now see why there is so much conflicting information about these headlights. I will keep digging before I make the plunge. Thank you so much for the great info rominl. I don't suppose any numbers off the headlight itself or the VIN would help determine the correct unit. I'm assuming they are the same part number. If I'm wrong, anyone feel free to correct me. Thanks again for your great help! I'll check back here to see if there is any other info that has been added. I'm all ears. Thank you so very much.

 

i can't remember the details anymore but i think it had more to do with the years (for the color)