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SCMedic
06-16-2007, 09:30 AM
Is there any way to improve on the projector head/fog lights on an 07' without going to an HID setup? Can you change the bulbs out? Links? I did search just so you search nazi mother F'ers know! :):disco:

brunetmj
06-16-2007, 11:01 AM
Lighting improvement is a fairly subjective topic due to the fact that aging, as well as general eye condition, changes the ability to see light through the eyes . Because I am older , a change in the type of bulb can be significant improvement where you may see no improvement at all. So don’t be surprised if you try a recommended bulbs and find no change.

Changing bulbs is the most common mod. I like HIR's for the brights. They are excellent improvement. Try a search for HIR's.

Secondly understand that a small drop in voltage can have a big impact on light output. Some people insert relays in the lighting system to maximize voltage to the lights.
Lastly consider installing driving lights.

I hope you don’t mind this friendly piece of advice regarding your remark about search nazi .
I wish everyone could be like mulder, one of the moderators. He has answered the same question for years and has rarely lost his patience.
But tolerance is a two way street. Try to be patient with others as it makes for a better forum expierence.
Enjoy

SCMedic
06-16-2007, 11:10 AM
I appreciate your suggestions, and I'll definately look into the HIR's...

I've got tons of tolerance, and the search nazi joke was just that, a joke.. I totally understand the frustration of every new suby owner coming in and asking the same damn questions...

brunetmj
06-16-2007, 12:29 PM
The following is a good link for lighting issues and other useful information

http://www.danielsternlighting.com/

SCMedic
06-16-2007, 12:30 PM
Yeah, I found that, and emailed him a good bit ago, and NO response...

I may try the HIR's before going to HID's if the HIR's don't work out..

ringe
06-16-2007, 02:39 PM
Is there any way to improve on the projector head/fog lights on an 07' without going to an HID setup? Can you change the bulbs out? Links? I did search just so you search nazi mother F'ers know! :):disco:

I ordered a pair of Osram Rallye 65W H7 bulbs for my low beams from Daniel Stern Lighting. He also recommened an HIR9011 bulb slightly modified to fit for my high beams, and there were some options for the fogs.

I would say that the 65watt bulb made a tangible improvement in lighting. I was on the interstate at night after installing them, and when I pulled even to a Navigator with Xenon HIDs, I noticed that my humble halogens were nearly if not just as effective as his lights.:)

jezzy
06-18-2007, 06:15 PM
I'd say, save your cash on those expensive fancy bulbs and GO with HID.

Trust me, this will solve all your problems and bulbs will last longer and you'll be 100% satisfied in the end.

Trust me! I've got an 06 with 06 STI headlights (HID) and even put in TSX projectors which greatly improved the HID output.. but even with 06 STI headlights, you'd be happy.

Or, get D2S bulbs, H7 Adaptors, and ballasts and you'll be the happiest guy !

Mulder
06-18-2007, 06:46 PM
Yes you can go HID, but it certainly isn't cheaper.
The right way to do it is with the STi lights, since even though the halogen 07 lights are projectors they still aren't optimized for use with HID bulbs, and you won't get the same results by installing D2S bulbs in them.
The other upgrade suggestions that have been made here WILL make a noticeable improvement, whether it's enough for you is as mentioned a subjective assessment that you'll have to make.
The 65W bulbs are one possibility that won't cause any wiring issues, also you can try some of the stock wattage "+50" high-efficacy bulbs like Osram Silverstars, Narva Rangepowers, and a few others. They are not expensive and unlike the blue-coated bulbs you find in the parts stores they will give you better lighting.

semaj
06-18-2007, 07:40 PM
+1 for 65W H7 Osram Rallye lowbeams, and Toshiba HIR 9011 highbeams :D

I don't have foglights, and the output from these bulbs is more than adequate for me.

jezzy
06-18-2007, 08:19 PM
Yes you can go HID, but it certainly isn't cheaper.
....
The 65W bulbs are one possibility that won't cause any wiring issues, also you can try some of the stock wattage "+50" high-efficacy bulbs like Osram Silverstars, Narva Rangepowers, and a few others. They are not expensive and unlike the blue-coated bulbs you find in the parts stores they will give you better lighting.

Very true.. not talking about the same $ involved. If you're on a tight budget, bulb upgrades like PIAA or Osram may just do the job.

Just from my experience, those $ upgraded bulbs (ie Piaa) didn't last long enough (1 year maybe?) and thus became quite costly replacing them all the time.. meanwhile still not providing the output that true HID's can. ..

I've had silverstars in my last car, noticable difference, but lasting 6 months ? I couldn't believe it. Worst 50-60$ I spent.. (thats about 3 years ago?)

SCMedic
06-18-2007, 08:22 PM
Thanks a bunch guys.. I'll have to look a little more, and do some more research.. I don't know how I feel about the HID fitting.. I read the DIY, but it still seems like something that could possible screw up a lot of crap..

Mulder
06-18-2007, 08:31 PM
Jezzy, there's a difference between the Sylvanias and PIAAs, which are known to not last very long, and the +50 bulbs which are longer-lived in addition to producing more usable light.
Generally none of the aftermarket bulbs will last as long as OEM-grade ones, there is always a tradeoff. However the nominal life of the high-efficacy bulbs is much more acceptable than that of the overdriven blue-coated ones.