Re: How To Install an HID Headlight Kit

Visit me at: www.ericthecarguy.com/
Surprisingly, this was one of my most controversial videos to date. Honestly I had no idea the original video would cause such a stir. After reading through the comments on the last video and the comments over at my forum I decided to make this video answering to many of your concerns. I hope this video helps clear the air and we can move on. Here are the links that were mentioned in the video.
Premium Membership: www.ericthecarguy.com/premium...
Original video: • How To Install an HID ...
How To Adjust Headlights: • How To Aim Headlights ...
Kelvin Wiki: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelvin
Color temperature Wiki: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colour_t...
Info on color temp: lowel.com/edu/color_temperatur...
Ohio Headlight Law: codes.ohio.gov/orc/4513.15
Ohio State Trooper Contact: statepatrol.ohio.gov/counties....
The Basic Parts of an Engine: • Dissecting an Engine, ...
Scotty Kilmer's channel: kzbin.info...
Subaru Headlight Install: • 1997 Subaru Legacy JDM...
ETCG Episode 1: • Episode 1, Creds - Eri...
8000K HID Kit: www.motorfiend.com/8000K-HID-K...
Motorfiend: www.motorfiend.com
EricTheCarGuy
P.O. Box 395
Kings Mills OH 45034
Discussion about this video: www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/...
Stay Dirty
ETCG
Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

[@pryvisee]

"That's an intake manifold." I lol'd

[@pipnmaz]

I found this video while searching for a video on installing an HID kit and I've watched this video before watching the installation video which came before, and prompted this video. I subscribed based on this video and now will go watch your installation video. What a cool, level headed, helpful guy. I have not yet read any of the comments on the installation video but obviously I have an idea what those comments are and how you have addressed them already. Peace and thanks.

[@davidthomas7588]

Cool, level headed, and helpful aren't the same as intelligent and knowledgeable in this case then.

[@blkgixxerslvr]

This guy is a fuckin idiot putting an HID bulb in a halogen housing. Guess you morons stick together.

[@ericthecarguy]

I appreciate the fact that you made a reasonable argument and stayed away from name calling. Thanks for your comments and input. They are both appreciated.

[@l4d2160]

Well said Eric. You just earned another sub. Congrats on being an adult about the situation.

[@rickslick730]

Eric! you are doing a great job with your car how to videos, I have learned so much from watching them, keep up the good work and as for the responds to your haters! I couldn't have said it better

[@Sovek86]

You know, its funny. I installed 6000K HIDs in my (now dead) Buick Regal on the Low Beam. Never aimed the headlights, And I never really had people point their High Beams at me. Maybe one, or two but never 5 in one night. I've seen people with these retrofits, never noticed it blinding me either. Now the ACTUAL pojectors? Heck yes, I cant begin to tell you how many times I'm blinded by BMWs, Mercedes or any other stupid car with those projectors.

[@z06king]

amen. I live off a rolling road in pitch black rural area. when followed by the above mentioned luxury vehickles(sic, rural area, get it?) I am temporarily blinded till i tip my mirror down!

[@harysuper]

I’m thinking about getting either 4300K or 5000K for my Buick. And yeah, those BMWs drive me crazy. I’m hoping my 4300Ks won’t be too bad. I’m also getting new housings that work better with HIDs.

[@vidlover07]

I have a 97 Honda civic and an hid kit with relay harness. do I need to plug the signal plug coming off the relay into my factory harness or can I run them without it. I don't have it plugged into the factory but the lights come on but somtimes the low beam will go out .

[@brett6892]

I LOVE YOU FOR POINTING OUT THAT THAT WAS THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. I JUST DIED LAUGHING.

[@MrMikey1273]

lol Honda engines run counter clockwise if i remember from having an 87 prelude si.... so yeah the intake is in the front

[@Silvertarian]

Most of the time your getting flashed because you have hid's. Not because the driver is being blinded. I am yet to see someone sent careening into a ditch because they were blinded by my lights. I've seen projectors and reflector housings with hids. I have them in stock housings. Projectors are more blinding than reflectors. Most of the time your on a hill and the cutoff rises up in peoples faces anyways. And that's a concentrated beam. I could take a wild guess who ever bitches about these being bright do not own a set themselves and therefore do not carry a valid opinion in my eyes. The beam can be aimed in a reflector housing just as in a projector.

[@Silvertarian]

Yep as long as you know what your doing you'll be fine. The only problem is these light are very popular and everyone buys them. So you get some stupid kid in high school who had his mom buy hid and projectors for his Honda now he thinks he's an expert on hid's.

[@blkgixxerslvr]

wow, you actually believe what you just said?

[@Silvertarian]

Yes, you disagree? care to give a supporting argument? Are you capable?

[@blkgixxerslvr]

***** This one is safer for you: www.amazon.com/California-Exotic-Novelties-Enhance-Travel/dp/B00LK4F5BE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425965651&sr=8-1&keywords=penis+pumps

[@Iseekoutthetruth]

another great detailed video, I am always amazed by watching your videos how you seem to remain calm and have not thrown one single tool across the room all while filming what you are doing, Amazing keep up the great detailed videos.

[@Claire_Southernbelle]

Very helpful video.. is the "retainer" that prevents light from bouncing around everywhere included in this particular kit? If anyone knows, please help! And if it isn't... where can I get one? Thanks so much all

[@pheanix123456]

where do you get the metal cover for the bulbs? I want to install a set in my sienna but there are no projector headlights and I don't feel like doing a retrofit.

[@glths100]

Hi Eric I have couple of question for you. I recently installed HID on my 2005 Volvo S60, a straight install with no harness/ relay, it worked for couple of days, then flickers a bit for a while, and then total shut down, no lights on the headlights. Alright, after testing them I found out I found the ballast were bad, while waiting for the new ballast, I also ordered an harness with it (after doing some research.) I put halogen on, my driver side didn't want to come on even with brand new light bulbs, checked the fuse, checked the relay, even took it to the local mechanic, and even he can't figure out. I even purchased a new driver headlight to try it out, and still nothing. Have you heard anything this. Second question. After receiving the harness, I installed it with a anti-flicker capacitor whatever is called,after the entire installation, it worked for couple of days, and then total shut off. I tested again, it fried the ballast again. I went through almost 2 pair of HID kits. Do you have any idea what is causing this ?

[@939salm]

Eric, forget what those people said, i thought your installation video was the best one i have seen so far on KZbin and i will use it as a guide when doing my install. Thank you for making your videos and plz continue to make them. Good man

[@bigraider530]

You're a stand up guy and by far the best mechanic vid maker on the Tube.I may not have fully understood the lingo involving HID Headlights but your step by step installation and tips were invaluable to me.

[@eddier9593]

Yo Eric that retainer you talked about, is that a separate piece that you need to buy? if so and where? I've got a 9006 and the one's I found don't look anything like the one you showed?

[@aaron23854]

A soon as he pulled that tape out I started to laugh

[@howyoudoinralph1628]

This is a prime example of why I go out of my way to use your information Videos, not to mention have tons of respect for you Eric. Love you man!!!!!!

[@crazycountryguy5976]

would i need 3 different kits for my Low Beam, High Beam, and Fog Lights? i know that the fog lights are separate kits

[@johnferguson7235]

Thanks for the follow up video, I want to install an HID kit on the fog lights for my Volvo XC70. The information that you have provided in this video is very helpful in selecting the best kit; especially the bulb selection. I notice that you have a video for fog lamp conversion so I'll be watching that too.

[@GalaXy808]

Hi Eric the car guy,I wanna install in my 2009 crv? But is it easy to install? What is the downside? But I really really want ted those bec. The original light of the crv is they dim! But what if time to replace them bec. Burnt or something like that.I like your explanation! I really really agree.

[@alecthompson9998]

Eric could you please tell me where you got the retainer that goes over the HID? Recently bought some and really want to use one.

[@DannyKhoo89]

Hey Eric, I watch a lot of your videos and I love it, mainly because you do things where many professionals out there would do and your explanations are good and detailed. I'm a headlight person too. I do headlights retrofit as part time and read a lot about headlights for the pass whole year. I'm still learning and I know some headlight fellas can be a little harsh sometimes. We have forums and fb groups which we only talk only about headlights related stuffs. We try to educate those new comers but sometimes people just think 8000k is so cool I'm gonna put in my halogen reflector and blind everyone and that annoys us. You however give very good explanation on your installation and we do appreciate it. There is actually HID on reflector housing that comes factory fitted which is legal and safe to the other motorists. Don't get me wrong. I always prefer HID on projector, but usually people out there just plug and play HID on their ride and did not made proper adjustment like you did, and that really annoys everyone. Anyhow, you did a great job there Eric and I'll keep supporting your videos. Cheers!

[@jbuilds1]

Great vid Eric! Thanks for clearing up all the misconceptions about HIDs. Keep up the good work :)

[@georgeye2759]

Incredible; your patience, knowledge, skill, threshold and way of life. Saw the previous video and I have to say my admiration for you has always been very high not only due to your mechanical skills but your character. Well done Eric, I hope you continue to post videos regardless of what people do or say.

[@stupa55]

Good point that you mentioned the problem with the rainy or foggy weather :) Missed that part in the first video and really wondered why you have chosen the blue colour HID Kits.

[@Doof3rproductions]

Where did you buy your retainers for your HID's? Do they have them for 9007 bulbs?

[@MinhTran-ls8yp]

Hi Eric, I just want you to know i really enjoy and learned a lot from your videos. I know in life no matter what you do, there will be someone out there try to judge you, don't mind them, keep up with your videos and like you always said ( stay dirty) Thanks

[@joewood1921]

Arn't some auto lamps listed a candle power scale ,if so how the scales corralate to each outher?

[@bOrncLiChe]

You are one of the few youtubers that i look forward watching what you make. Even though i dont drive any of the cars you fix. I love your vids keep it up please!

[@atoz350]

I was the one who commented about the rain. I'm glad you got some experience with it. I've been installing these kits since 2001. They all have the same issue with Kelvin temperature and rain. You did a great install and very informative video. Also remember that the first HID systems were installed on reflective housings. Sure the tech has progressed, but that doesn't make the reflector any less useful.

[@Gregnyj6]

If I have projector headlights do I have to put that housing around the bulb?

[@RickyRisnandar]

Hi Eric, I am 1 of your many subscriber from outside US, and I found your videos are very informative and useful for a DIY automotive enthusiast like me, and i really hope you keep making videos like you already did, best wishes for you from Indonesia!

[@Marz69181]

A lot of extra work this Re video, good work Eric .Love it .

[@bastianroz]

I've been watching your videos one after the other since some days and I find them very helpful. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

[@aceNok1]

Do you need the reflective housing if you have the projector housing?

[@jaytarang]

EricTheCarGuy Where can I find that retainer? I just found the retainer Clips .

[@camelpoot]

I'v been a sub for about 2 months now and iv gotta say, all the video's iv watch so far from Eric, have been so helpful in fixing my old 1999 Hyundai Accent 1.3 . Eric keep up the good work man and P.S I'm watching all the way from South Africa and all you have shown me has helped me a lot. Thanks again keep up the good work !!!!!

[@KingCobra1968]

Well done, Eric. Awesome addressing of the concerns posted on the previous video. Keep up the great videos!!

[@JonnyFlash80]

Great RE video Eric. You are so right about the importance of properly aiming the headlights after installing the HID kit. I forgot to aim mine the first time I installed HIDs in reflector housings and got flashed by on-coming drivers quite a bit on the first drive out. The next day I adjusted them properly and since then I've never been flashed again.

[@seniorxj2931]

Where did you get the reflecting metal cover that you put over the bulb?

[@nschornick]

Eric I think your a great role model for all us to see. You handled this very well and your right, your car, your decision. Subbed and honestly the Original HID installation video wasn't really thought much of. I just looked at it as a cool installation and a nice addition to your vehicle. Good job Eric and stay dirty.

[@MichelBalik]

Eric keep it up. Your detailed videos are great for younger newbies like me and I look forward to them. KZbin is filled with people who make life harder than it should be.

[@JayEm7516]

I have learnt so much from watching your videos over the past few years, you are an inspiration to us all. Keep the vids coming! :)

[@MrMikey1273]

thanks for the videos on this topic. I been looking for something bright that dont burn out fast like silverstar ultra for my 2006 Liberty CRD. I good comments in the Re: video. I just ordered a 4300K kit with 55 watt balasts after seeing my friends 2004 GTO with the 4300k kit. I do like the higher blueish color but really just want a near white light thats bright and dont attract too much attention so i feel safer at night. thanks again for the video with good install tips and keep posting good car content.

[@timstark7250]

Great video Eric! I had been thinking about installing a HID kit in my Honda Accord but had heard the negative comments about doing this. Hadn't seen your videos on this when you made them, but your my "go to guy" for car info so I did a search and found your RE: video on the subject. Answered all my questions! Also great comment on when pointing a finger at someone you still have three pointing back at yourself! SO many people think the anonymity of the internet allows them to be as nasty as they want. They try to degrade others in a vain effort to make them feel better about themselves; and all they end up doing is degrading themselves!

[@singcheong1]

Very informative, correct, and useful. Addressed a lot of confusion for HID light conversion kit. 2 key points that I almost miss when choosing/installing HID are (1) adjust light (2) in foggy or snowing day, lower Kelvin temperature light works better (closer to 5,000K). Your videos is always my favorite. I have been a Japanese car DIY for 10 years to repair my own family's car, and always refers to your video. Thanks a lot

[@t351bone]

eric, i have been a mechanic for a long time now. every time i watch your videos i learn something new. all the car enthusiasts, mechanics and myself really appreciate what you do. dont worry about the haters... nobody is perfect

[@alexmoran731]

Great RE: video Eric, Your channels are among my favorites on KZbin alongside Drive, and EVO. All of your subscibers(including myself) know that you(like us) are not perfect, but you sure know a whole hell of alot more then most of us! Keep the videos coming! :)

[@nameless5r]

Whatever happened to motorfiend? I can't find their website. It's the only kit I've seen with that bulb protector/holder that only reflects in one direction.

[@misamention965]

Keep doing what you do. Your are a great help to many of us that need a little help every now and then. Thanks

[@Monjar94]

love the info and I keep learning a lot of new things from you eric keep up the good work!

[@Jaloogman]

I was wondering where I could purchase a HID reflector which prevented the flood light. Thank you for the video.

[@GavstarLeo]

Can anyone help me? I bought a hid kit 6000k for my ford focus mk1 which are greenish whitish and dim, my headlights have those reflective cups in front of the bulbs which i believe may cause the problem? They arent as bright as they should be

[@UncleRio7777]

Thanks Eric, learned a lot and keep em' coming buddy!

[@kpcarfreak94]

If there's a cover over the bottom half how does the high beam work? Please explain or message me cause I wanna get this kit for my 2000 maxima

[@solesearched]

EXTREMELY informational video. Fantastic as usual Eric!

[@AllUNeedMotors]

Eric - I noticed that you have clear headlight housing. I have the even older refractor type housing in my 97 Explorer. Would I be able to get a retrofit kit, or would I have to get clear headlight housings?

[@miked6193]

Eric, where can I find those retainers to put over the bulbs?

[@beedip84]

Great job Eric you rock....i'm from the Caribbean and you're my number one car guy in youtube. Your videos help me alot as a young mechanic and you are a gentleman. Screw what people say you would always be great in my book.

[@ericthecarguy]

I did. Link is in the description of the original video.

[@sdqdfyl]

just did hid install on my girl's car. 2009 camry with projector.... 35W HID kit really really really didn't change anything........ thinking about replace with a 55W HID kit. any suggestion?

[@taskinyucekurt]

Nevermind those ppl Eric, we know how you are honest and real man, who following you on this channel and website. You helping ppl teaching your job and spending your time for us. I learned a lot from you and your vids. Thanks.

[@Dannyboy1277]

Were the light retainers on the stock halogen lights or did they come with the hid kit?

[@DJzSith]

Do the markings on the glass of the headlight have any bad effect? I notice hid headlights always have clear glass.

[@donkyuhbuhts540]

where did you get those "retainers" man? i just ordered some hids and would like these

[@ManicMechanic007]

Great Re video, and another great explanation. Thanks for taking the time Eric.

[@polewalker]

I love the videos and I think you're doing a great job. It's always awesome when somebody tells everybody. They made a mistake and why. The other thing you do great is you don't put people down. I have learned a lot about your videos and I'm 65 years old. Keep it up

[@MrFishluver]

Putting HIDs in my 04 Sebring coupe, your vid is what I needed. Thank you.

[@amanwithafakename]

Eric, your videos are AWESOME! Please continue making them. I really enjoyed this "RE" video as well as all of the videos you put out. Very reasonable and thorough in your explanations. If I had the money, I'd send you the fog lights for the hell of it. Stay Dirty.

[@munhoechan]

Hi Eric! Nice video and really a great job that you have done. i just browse to find some info on HID bout the glare part that blind others driver. i saw the same product as yours, and now i get the answer and worry no more if i buy those conversion kit. would like to thank you for your kind knowledge sharing and effort to make this video. As MrBuickCentury comment, i feel that you really look tired. Relax and take some rest, God bless!

[@CookJunkie]

Great video and responses to concerns. As well as a great discussion. This why I subscribed to your channel. Keep it up.

[@Starke_1337]

Hey I appreciate you and your videos I recently used your ball joint removal video on my 92 legend and it was a big help thank you

[@rbjoseph25]

Oh, and thanks to you, I have ordered a 6000K HID kit for my wife's fog lights on her 01 Mazda Millenia. And seeing that all of her lights are projector housings, I will be converting all her lights to HID, low beam first, then high beam. So thank you ERIC!

[@mattjones4691]

Just curious: could you have mounted the ballasts directly behind the headlight assembly? I believe I have seen that done before. I imagine it depends on how much room there is.

[@jbretado1]

Eric you are the socially smartest mechanic I've ever met. Your channel is the best of my subscriptions. Thank you for sharing your knowlege at no cost, a lot of people really apreciate it.

[@djponchus95]

How do HIDs do in the snow? Any particular temperatures that don't have the reflection problem?

[@phmichel]

Excellent follow up Eric. You answered several questions for me about the viability of HID - HOWEVER - what about HID bulb life? And how do these compare to the LED's you installed in your Odyssey performance wise?

[@yardman0001]

Eric , I have learned so much from your videos, I look forward to everyone. The guy that made the comment about the exhaust and the ballast had me cracking up. He obviously doesn't know anything... Nice job on this video as usual!

[@garlicson]

that hid are 35 or 55 watts? if you turn that hid on without turning on the machine can it make the batterry down?

[@robertknight4672]

That cool how the light is reflected. Where I live we have a lot of steep hills which sometimes make it see like high beams are on regardless of headlight type.

[@muasboy]

Thankyou for all all all the great videos you've provided. Please don't stop helping us =)

[@obxpalma]

Keep making videos dude. You help alot of folks like myself. Thanks.

[@jkenefake]

Great Re: video. I had a few of the concerns others had commented about, but you did a nice job addressing those. An issue I had read with respect to putting HIDs in any halogen housing, including projectors, is that the light from the bulb emanates from a slightly different spot. This can affect the focus of the reflections. However, when I checked out this kit an the website, I read it uses that adapter to position the bulb in such a way that the source is in the same location. Good kit!

[@D-Licker]

Hey Eric, what is that shield called and where did you get them?

[@Dugg_Digs_Adventure]

Your how to bleed a cooling system vid is the first vid i ever watched on YTUBE it didnt help but that one video got me hooked and even if u are dead wrong i still enjoy the hell out of all ur vids keep it up and piss on the haters

[@layintrax]

Eric, don't ever, ever, ever, ever let the haters get ya down!... I don't see them making videos... Nothing but respect for you! I did my first head gasket replacement because you taught me how to clean up, oil, and torque down head bolts. Keep it up!... you're making a difference!

[@angelramirez7747]

ETCG you are the man, keep doing what you're doing because you are truly an inspiration bro!

[@UnsoundCube]

You are perhaps the best and most 'real' internet presenter getting around, literally you're brilliant! Thanks for all the mechanical knowledge! :)

[@marvinma2509]

I've watch a couple of your HID videos, I really appreciate the quick tips. You are cool!

[@abyssalreclass]

How exactly does the high beam switching work? Does it use an electromagnet to alter the position of the arc? My HID kit is a 6000k, H1 in the low beam only in a projector housing.

[@yllib68]

Love all the videos Eric! Keep em coming brother!

[@Peter-V_00]

Very informative Eric, straightforward.

[@MrDavyboy80]

Keep those awesome videos coming Eric.

[@coldcash12345]

I laughed when he measured the ballast to the exhaust.. "This right here, this is the intake manifold"

[@cobra3392]

You are awesome. Thanks for the informative video and you please keep doing what you do, so helpful and you have my support 100%. Keep up the good work.

[@blkgixxerslvr]

No, he needs to stop what he is doing. He is promoting illegal modifications that blind people at night. HID bulbs were not meant to be put in a halogen housing. Do some research.

[@Old220cdi]

Hi Eric. I apriciate both videos and how you handle the issues, keep up the good work :-) .

[@TicketyBoo.]

Hi Eric. Your videos are by far the best out there. Even here in Scotland your work is appreciated. Keep it up mate. BC

[@omarb1109]

Great videos man...keep up the hard work and teaching us a little more....God blessed you...

[@kylekayfish1012]

Old video but I have been told by lighting specialists that HID and now LED should never be installed in reflector housing only projector but you covered that nicely. Do a video of LED headlamps, I just did this and they are amazing. perfectly focued white light at 5500 kelvins 2500 lumins per bulb.