*HID Conversion on the 2009's* - Benzworld.org

jjbenzky · 09-04-2008, 07:26 PM

Ok guys, this is important.....

I got my 2009 E350 without the bi-xenons. I need to convert them at (almost) any cost. The OEM replacement cost $4000 and its questionable as to whether or not it is even possible to rewire the car for the OEM xenons, as told to me at the MB dealership.

So I did a ton of research and found several sellers of the kits that look legit. The cost for these "higher" end kits are $250-$450. From what I read a "digital" kit is better so I looked for those specifically. They supposedly control the light output on both left and right side so the brightness is equal. I also learned that OEM xenons burn at 4300k. Many cheezy looking HID upgrades result in a very blue, or even purple light. Thats not for me. I want it to look as OEM as possible. The guys who sell the lights say that even though OEM is 4300k, the aftermarket 4300k's look too white, and dont include the "touch of blue" found in OEM. So bottom line they recommended I order the 8000k's, which I fear may look too blue (cheezy), but we'll see. I paid $250 for the digital kit, which also came wth some kind of capacitor (?) or something which might help regulate voltage and prevent CPU errors.

Many shops that do the work refused the job saying it wont work without getting errors in the dash display. I found a guy who was recommended by the MB dealership parts guys, who is willing to give it a shot, after all I can return the kit if I get errors. I will let all you know what i discover in the process. One thing i can assure the board is that once Im done with the process I will have all the answers - I have major OCD and wont leave even one stone unturned.

I also found a backup seller who gave a 100% guarantee that the lights will work on the 2009 E Class. Hes charging $350. We shall see...

Being a newbie I could really use the help of my fellow BenzWorlders by sharing their knowledge and experience.

THANKS!

Diesel Benz · 09-04-2008, 11:41 PM

Since you are not that afraid of the the cost, I would go for the OEM but find an expert who knows how to take care of the installation. MB workshops are not trained for this if the harness from the factory does not support the retrofit but retrofit experts know how to overcome shortages on the factory harness. I would definitely avoid any after market HIDs (bulbs or even full headlight assemblies). If you did not already to it, have a look at MBenzNL - Home.

jjbenzky · 09-04-2008, 11:50 PM

to spend $4k+ on OEM lights leased car is just stupid. Im looking for good HID conversion advise

Diesel Benz · 09-05-2008, 04:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jjbenzky

to spend $4k+ on OEM lights leased car is just stupid. Im looking for good HID conversion advise

You did not seem to read carefully, the advice was to use OEM units but another source and another option for the installation. But it is your car, I don't mind if you use candles, specifically because I would unlikely drive at the same place as you do.

amansour05 · 09-05-2008, 11:11 AM

I'm in the same boat of thoughts as you (I have 2008 E350), I tried and investigated and everyone said it will violate the manufacturer warranty, I believe this is true as well as the OEM parts, they will say it was not done originally by MB and any electrical issue will be rejected because of that, also I see, if you installed the aftermarket one, and you come across an electrical issue, it will be way easier to remove it and get back to the original Halogen (of course, don’t leave any evidence) and send the car to MB to take care of the issue.

As jjbenzky said, "and its questionable as to whether or not it is even possible to rewire the car for the OEM xenons" moreover, I got this info from MBenzNL “the auto level system of the bi xenons won't work when upgrading
from halogens, simply because your car won't have the proper hardware
to support this feature. You will be able to aim the beams manually,
though, in case needed”

Along with the cost, I would vote for the aftermarket, but you are lucky you found one recommended by the dealer folks.

I see why "Diesel Benz" recommended MBenzNL, as for the reputation, but again with the uncertainty, and the same results as the aftermarket, go with the aftermarket, as long as it will not be overload or inconsistent load on the electric system.

Please jjbenzky, let us all know how it goes with you, also if it worked, please let us know what aftermarket HID system you got.

BTY, is there anyone with Benz newer that 2006 has aftermarket installed for sometimes, please give us your inputs, I’ll not keep my experience to myself when it come to expensive cars, I’ll share it with everyone and I’ll fell good about myself if I prevent some damages or save some time to any other person (any good person should do the same)