How to Convert to LED Headlight Bulbs

Energy efficiency isn’t the only reason you may want to switch out LEDs. We’ve listed the main characteristics of both types of headlights here so you can see how they compare to one another.

• Brightness: Halogens produce a warm, yellowish light, with lower brightness than LEDs.
• Energy efficiency: Halogens tend to be considered less efficient than their LED counterparts due to increased heat generation.
• Lifespan: Typically, halogen headlight bulbs will last between 1,200 to 2,000 hours before needing a replacement.
• Cost: They are more affordable upfront, but frequent replacements add up over time.
• Installation: Standard and found in most older vehicles, halogens are easy to replace.

• Brightness: LEDs emit a more intense white light, improving road visibility.
• Energy efficiency: LEDs tend to be far more energy efficient than their halogen counterparts, converting most power into light rather than heat.
• Lifespan: They can last 25,000 hours 230,000 hours, reducing the frequency of replacements.
• Cost: They cost more upfront, but long-term savings on energy consumption and significantly reduced replacements more than make up for it.
• Installation: Some vehicles will require a conversion kit, but many modern models support plug-and-play LED replacements.

The main benefit to LED headlight bulbs is their significant boost in visibility. While halogen bulbs only produce about 16 to 24 lumens per watt, LEDs produce 80 to 100 lumens per watt. So, even the most powerful halogen bulbs don’t outshine an average LED headlight.

Halogen bulbs convert about 90% of energy consumed into heat, meaning they are less energy efficient compared to their LED counterparts. LEDs conserve more power for light production, which reduces energy consumption and greatly improves longevity.

Making the switch from halogens to LED headlight bulbs involves several steps to ensure a proper installation and optimal performance.

Step one: Consult your owner’s manual. Using your owner’s manual, determine your vehicle’s headlight bulb type and use this information to select the appropriate LED conversion kit.

Step two: After confirming your vehicle compatibility, invest in an LED conversion kit that includes all necessary components such as LED bulbs, ballasts, and wiring adaptors.

Step three: Gather the necessary tools such as screwdrivers, gloves, and any other equipment specified in the conversion kit instructions.

Step four: Park your vehicle on a flat surface (not the driveway), turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake. At this point you can open the hood to access the headlight assemblies.

Step five: Disconnect the power connection from the back of the halogen bulb and release any retaining clips or screws. Carefully remove the bulb from its housing while avoiding touching the glass surface of the bulb.

Step six: Insert the new LED bulb into the headlight housing and ensure it is secure. Connect the LED driver or ballast first to the bulb, then to the vehicle’s power connector. Some kits may specify a requirement to mount the ballast within the engine bay. It’s important to follow your kit’s instructions.

Step seven: Before reassembling the components, turn the vehicle’s headlights on to verify the functionality of your new LEDs. Confirm proper alignment, adjusting as necessary to ensure optimal road illumination that won’t cause glare to other drivers. Once you’re satisfied with the installation, secure any loose wiring and replace any removed covers or components. Close the hood.

If you’re ready make the switch, visit your local NAPA Auto Parts store to speak with a NAPA expert to find the right LED headlights for your vehicle.