IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013) Discussion about the 2006+ model IS models

Factory xenon headlight question

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Old 09-02-17, 03:07 PM
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MRM350
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Default Factory xenon headlight question

I own a 2009 IS350 with the factory xenon headlights, but have been curious about replacing them with a pair that have led drl's (such as what the 10-13 models have). The only real problem is all of the aftermarket parts I've been able to find are only compatible with IS models that come with factory halogen headlights. Does anyone know if a compatible part exists for my model? Thanks in advance.
Old 09-02-17, 03:33 PM
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MikeFig82
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Nothing exists as far as I know. The aftermarket stuff is all catered to the non AFS head lights. Which is halogen models only. I ran into this problem myself awhile back owning a GS400. It's ridiculous to pay for a $700 new set & still it's only the housing. Double that if I wanted to do a retrofit setup. Honestly IMO AFS is nice but not worth it. I'm glad my IS came with halogens.
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Old 09-02-17, 05:57 PM
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MRM350
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Originally Posted by MikeFig82
Nothing exists as far as I know. The aftermarket stuff is all catered to the non AFS head lights. Which is halogen models only. I ran into this problem myself awhile back owning a GS400. It's ridiculous to pay for a $700 new set & still it's only the housing. Double that if I wanted to do a retrofit setup. Honestly IMO AFS is nice but not worth it. I'm glad my IS came with halogens.
Do you happen to know exactly why the parts are not compatible? I can't find information about whether it's the mounting bracket or just the fitment.
Old 09-02-17, 07:05 PM
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The AFS head lights come loaded with the following. Motors for the AFS functions Up Down, Left to Right. They also come equipped with a ballast under neath the lamp itself.

As for fitment they they mount the same no problems. Halogen headlights are only your low beam, high beam, parking lights, and finally turn signals.

These are the reasons why the are not compatible.
Old 09-03-17, 08:55 AM
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MRM350
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Originally Posted by MikeFig82
The AFS head lights come loaded with the following. Motors for the AFS functions Up Down, Left to Right. They also come equipped with a ballast under neath the lamp itself.

As for fitment they they mount the same no problems. Halogen headlights are only your low beam, high beam, parking lights, and finally turn signals.

These are the reasons why the are not compatible.
Thanks for the explanation. So if I don't care about the AFS functioning then I should have no problems with the Spyder or Spec D aftermarket housings? I've never had a car with these functions nor do I have much experience with car repairs/ part replacements so sorry if these seem like lame questions.
Old 09-03-17, 09:24 AM
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You'll probably have to repin the connections on the headlights connector. I'm really not sure on this subject. Search for threads on CL about members upgrading to AFS from Halogen ones. You can find your answers there.
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Old 09-03-17, 09:39 AM
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Originally Posted by MRM350
Thanks for the explanation. So if I don't care about the AFS functioning then I should have no problems with the Spyder or Spec D aftermarket housings? I've never had a car with these functions nor do I have much experience with car repairs/ part replacements so sorry if these seem like lame questions.
Should be fine. The only thing is you'll have a red flashing AFS symbol constantly on your dashboard but besides that it should work ok.
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