Hi all,

I have a 2007 Maxima SE and need to replace the drivers side headlight. It has HID bulbs so when I do a search for the right part, I'm getting stupid $600-$800 prices but they seem to come with the complete assembly, bulbs and all, while those marked as halogen are only $150 or so.

Is there a difference between the headlight itself or do I need the specific HID headlight?

 

They are different. Why not buy a used one?

 

$38.99 on Amazon if you REALLY want aftermarket new with ballast as linked below. If you go with used, there are a number of people that harvest headlights in the junkyard and sell on Facebook. They will likely want $150 to $200 for the both restored headlights which helps especially if your plastic lenses are weathered. Since COVID, many new auto parts are inferior to getting used ones from the junk yard.

Remember that ballasts are often the cause of failure as much as the glass bulb.



Here is what you DON'T want to do: Don't buy one of those el cheapo complete new headlights. Those are "plug and play", but they are halogen. My Max came with halogen originally. Any thing over 55 MPH overdrives halogens at night. The plugs are the same. A complete HID light will say "D2S" in the text at the bottom of the lamp and you will see a ballast assembly on the light assembly.

DO NOT get this where the white cap is NOT flat on top (halogen):

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/1MgAA...tB/s-l1600.jpg

Instead, get this where the white cap IS flat on top (D2S):

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/~xMAA...bm/s-l1600.jpg


I was surfing Facebook: You might want to ask if this seller has D2S or Halogen headlights. They look nice in the photo. Item number 1155906795780823 .
.... Having trouble posting link to listing .....

 

Thank you. Good information. I have found a used one locally for $100 and they offer free delivery so I can inspect it before accepting the headlight. The flat white cap is definitely useful to know.

Thanks,