GS - 3rd Gen (2006-2011) Discussion about the 2006+ model GS300, GS350, GS430, GS450H and GS460

Both headlights out

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Old 01-05-13, 02:58 PM
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mydawgz
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Default Both headlights out

My 2006 GS 300 has needed some of the most random repairs. Both headlights are out. The left went out a few days ago and the right went out last night. Do I need bulbs or do I replace the entire lamp?? Lexus said it might be the ballast. I have zero experience with a ballast. My high beams are perfect. If the ballast is bad would the high beams work?? The idea of needing two of these is killing me. What is the best answer?
Old 01-05-13, 03:10 PM
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AudioBob
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The high beams are a different bulb that does not require a ballast so that is why they still work. You are going to have to play process of elimination. Maybe start with bulbs since they are the cheapest to replace in comparison to the ballasts. Either that or take it to a mechanic/dealer.
Old 01-05-13, 04:39 PM
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SNiiP3R
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Never heard of both ballasts going bad at the same time.... The easiest way to check is to install new bulbs or even better, if you know someone with 2006+ GS, just take their bulbs out and see if they'll work in your GS. You can also check your fuse box, maybe you have a burned fuse.

If the problem is indeed with your ballasts, then you should buy ballasts on ebay. It would be a lot cheaper than going to dealer.
Old 01-05-13, 06:05 PM
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mydawgz
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Thank you. I am sure if it is the ballasts I will need to take it to a mechanic here in Tampa. I will try the bulbs first for sure. Are the bulbs fairly simple to change or is that a process too? We have had cars that were almost impossible to access the bulb. I am hoping these will not be too bad !! If anyone knows a good link that shows how to change them, please send it my way. Thanks again.
Old 01-05-13, 06:52 PM
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SNiiP3R
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It's not too hard to change the bulbs. See how it is done here, https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...fter-pics.html
Old 01-06-13, 12:43 AM
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yrush
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Go with everyone recommendation. Change the bulbs first. Ballasts don't fail to often. I did have a older GS before where the fuse blew out. It would be a really odd if the left and right fuse blew out a day apart.
Old 01-06-13, 04:45 PM
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jre002
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Originally Posted by yrush
Go with everyone recommendation. Change the bulbs first. Ballasts don't fail to often. I did have a older GS before where the fuse blew out. It would be a really odd if the left and right fuse blew out a day apart.
Bulbs both going out at the same time would be strange.

Check fuses first!
Old 01-06-13, 04:55 PM
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ibidu1
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Originally Posted by jre002
Bulbs both going out at the same time would be strange.

Check fuses first!
+1 then if you cant find anything I would grab a volt meter to the headlight plug to see if its getting power before throwing money at it.
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