Just get the '13 and avoid problems and hassle

 

Hi all,

Thought I would continue the discussion on this already made thread, but have any of you heard of any news regarding how to purchase the new 2013 RX headlamps and whether it is a simple switch?

Thanks.

 

Nothing yet. Im still interested in doing this. I really want the look of that front end! Do you think contacting Sewell lexus parts department might get us more info?

 

If you 'COULD' actually change the design of your vehicle that way, it would almost certainly have a negative effect on the resale value for that year. But many parts probably including wiring would have different parts numbers not compatible with the year of yours. Would be best to just pony up and trade for the new one.

 

I love the new Lexus led headlights.

 

I like the new LS led drl's. Hopefully when they redo the RX it will get those. Way cool.

 

I have also been told by Lexus dealer that I cannot change out my halogen headlights for hid headlights due to wiring. Its amazing that the comfort package (cheaper than premium) has HID headlights but the premium package does not. I am worried about the warranty if I can change them and who can change them.

 

If you absolutely have to have them then trade up. That won't void your warranty and over time probably save you money and remorse and you'll have the real deal.

Personally the spindle grill design has grown on me, but I like my full AFS system with the HID lights that swivel into the turn more and you can't get them anymore. I spend more time inside looking through the w/s than outside looking at the front. The lights I have win for me or I'd have traded by now. What can I say other than I'm just a practical person.

 

You might want to consider a different halogen bulb. The cost is minimal. I would recommend going with Philips. I have them in my fog lights now after a few HID kits. I like the look and they light up the road well. It's important because the LED headlights I have are not nearly as bright as HIDs. LED bulbs are another option like you mentioned. VLEDS has a good selection. All the bulb sizes are in the specifications section of the owners manual.

 

As Anita mentioned above, the easiest thing you can do is change the halogen bulb.
In order to get OEM HIDs functional, you will need a new lights housing, along with ballast, bulbs and tilt motors. On top of that, there are 2 sensors installed on the suspension and an ECU that processes information from them, along with vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration rate. The ECU controls the tilt functionality. Now you can see why it is not an easy proposition.

There are aftermarket HID kits that are missing tilting feature. Also, due to the nature of HID bulbs, gas inside lights up the entire bulb instead of just the coil, they will not be suitable for halogen headlight housing. The light will be more spread-out and will blind other drivers. It is somewhat better with the lens design we have, but not perfect.

 

Sorry to comment on such on old thread. I've been trying to snag a pair of used 2013/2014 headlights on ebay, however they go pretty quick. The average price is probably around $350 per side. Not bad in comparison to $1,750 per from the dealer. Just curious to know if anyone has done the swap here on the forum. If so, would love to see pics and find out how the installations was. Thanks everyone!