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$375 For A Bulb???!!!!

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Old Feb 11, 2008 | 08:07 AM
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Default $375 For A Bulb???!!!!

I have a 2002 LS430 and my passenger side HID looks like it’s about to die. It became very dim all of a sudden. I’m assuming this a bulb problem and not an electrical problem.

I called Lexus to get an estimate to replace the bulb and they quoted me $375 just for the bulb!!!!! Needless to say, I’m going to try and replace it myself.

I read the FAQ on changing bulbs but they were not for my specific model. Does anyone have instructions specifically for the LS430? Any tricks?

I found a pair of new Philips OEM 4300 bulbs on ebay for $88 shipped. The seller seems to be reputable. Is this a good price?

Thanks for your help.
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Old Feb 11, 2008 | 08:59 AM
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it's pretty much the same. i did my sc430, gs400, and is300, all about the same. i am sure you can try do it yourself

and yes, get it from ebay, 88 sounds good. even if it's slightly used it's fine. changed the whole pair, otherwise color won't match
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Old Feb 11, 2008 | 10:59 AM
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Old Feb 11, 2008 | 11:16 AM
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Thanks guys, I'll give it a shot.

Do I need to remove the POS from the battery? My neighbor said to just shut off the car and wait at least 15 minutes. With my luck, I electrocute myself.
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Old Feb 11, 2008 | 12:11 PM
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You don't have to disconnect the battery. Just make sure the headlights are off so you don't shock yourself with the ballasts. They're easy to change.
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Old Feb 11, 2008 | 03:33 PM
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i got mine from ebay, they work fine and were genuine Phillips for around 90$ shipped for a pair, the dealership prices are ridiculous
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Old Feb 14, 2008 | 03:31 PM
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whoaaa 375 that WAYYY to much . headlight bulb removal is pretty str8 fwd im sure. If you are pretty familiar with removing bumpers and lights it should be a breeze if not just take your time!
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Old Feb 15, 2008 | 04:00 AM
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ebay and www.hidplanet.com are your best friends right now. Do what they said and buy from alternative sources. Screw the stealerships!
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Old Feb 27, 2008 | 01:59 PM
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Thanks for the help, everyone. I was able the change the bulbs themselves without much difficulty.

The problems started AFTER I changed them. I tried to start the car to make sure the bulbs worked and the car wouldn’t start (hadn’t started it for 24 hours). It had plenty of juice from the battery and would turn over but it just wouldn’t catch. Seemed like it wasn’t getting gas. This car has never given me a problem before.

To change the bulb on the driver’s side, I had to unbolt a small fuse box and move it to the side. I thought I may have pulled a wire even though I was careful but I didn’t find anything. Also, there was nothing critical in this box to stop the car from starting.

Then I checked all the EFI fuses and they were OK. I was completely stumped so I checked the manual and the only thing it mentioned was flooding. So I kept the gas pedal depressed and tried again. SUCCESS!

I thought I was going to have to get the car towed to the dealership. Seems to be operating normally now. I still have no idea what happened or how it could have possibly been flooded.

Anyway, the new bulbs are nice and bright and I’m happy with the result.
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Old Feb 27, 2008 | 02:23 PM
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just for furture reference, you can get a pair for $70, any color from http://ddmtuning.com/hidkihidbuhi.html

They are great quality and is a pretty known brand in the BMW community. Warrenty is great too.
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Old Feb 28, 2008 | 05:28 AM
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alexneil - where the hell were you two weeks ago?

Thanks for the link.
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