Well, it didn't take me long..

[Tinkerer]

Agreed about not wanting to screw with wiring etc. in pursuit of brighter headlights.

Not to mention cost - last time I checked, an HID retrofit kit was $300 and up...

My own experience with higher output drop-in replacements for OEM halogen bulbs is limited to our 2004 Honda Odyssey. OEM bulbs are dim imo, so I put in Sylvania 9003 XV, "Xtra Vision", claiming 30% brighter.

Unfortunately, they are rated for only about 1/4 the OEM bulb life. (Can't remember the exact hour figures off hand.) Sure enough, they both failed at around 15 months, within 2 weeks of each other.

I'll keep running them, because the OEM bulbs in that vehicle are too dim for my liking. May just put them on a 12 month replacement schedule, if they are only good for 12 months +.

Where to get more info on the Philips Xenon bulbs, and where to buy in the US?

 

[calamaridog]

Not sure why they are not sold in the U.S.

Where to get more info on the Philips Xenon bulbs, and where to buy in the US?

Not available in the U.S. Buy here and receive free shipping via British Airmail. Very fast and reliable. The bulbs I've bought are noticeably brighter and they seem to last fine. I believe this is a low $$$ risk as mods go.

From:

http://www.powerbulbs.co.uk/

"Why upgrade your autobulbs? The benefits explained.

Our products are all designed to give you extra light output. Our bulbs are filled with Xenon gas, instead of halogen, and this gives a much brighter, whiter light and a longer beam without increasing the wattage of the product. This means that you can get maximum street legal performance without compromising on quality or reducing the lifespan of the bulb.

All you need to do is replace your old bulbs with our Xenon gas filled performance bulbs! Then just sit back and see the difference. Auto Express magazine awarded our products the ‘Best Buy’ and ‘Recommended’ awards in their last autobulb test highlighting that our products are independently proven to be the market leaders.

We also offer a full range of sidelight, indicator and brake light bulbs which all aid styling and safety on your vehicle.

Take a look at our product range. If you are unsure which bulb to choose then try our Bulb Search Guide. If you're not sure which fitting you need for your vehicle then use our Vehicle Search facility on the right.

Why shop with Power Bulbs?

We're a dedicated autobulb specialist, established since 1977 and with a firm commitment to supply Original Equipment to our customers to ensure that they receive a quality product that is approved by their vehicle manufacturer. We offer fast, free delivery as well as regular special offers and expert advice. You can can order securely online or by calling our friendly Customer Service Team who will also be able to answer any questions you may have. Our previous customer testimonials highlight our commitment to offering the very best products and service."