Dreaded HIDs...2005

[RunnerJeff]

Okay so I feel like I have been through every post on here for HID's on a 2005 4Runner. I have found split answers on them and what I should do. I just want a flat out answer on whether I really need to do a retrofit or if I should just buy the 2006 headlights and install the HIDs. Take into consideration I am kind of on a budget as I am in college, but the funds are there. I've looked up the parts for the 2006+ lights but no one includes all the part numbers which would be extremely helpful.

A simple, clearcut answer would be appreciated!!

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Like you said, either way you'll be fine.

Have you priced the headlights yet?

I think I'd lean towards getting the 2006+ about 60% to 40% for the 2003-2005.

 

[RunnerJeff]

I don't really know what I want to do yet. Everyone says the 2003-2005 needs a retrofit, but I haven't seen any pictures of why that is. But for the 2006+ headlights you need several different pieces and no one has though exact part numbers out there or even a write up on it, that I can find.

 

[Clemsonfan15]

The thing about the 2003-2005 lights is that they will have some glare which could be a little blinding to other drivers.

I thought the 2006 lights were a direct swap.

 

[Matrixman955]

I don't really know what I want to do yet. Everyone says the 2003-2005 needs a retrofit, but I haven't seen any pictures of why that is. But for the 2006+ headlights you need several different pieces and no one has though exact part numbers out there or even a write up on it, that I can find.

A retrofit is great if you have the extra money and technical proficiency to do it. I have a 2003 and have been running 4300Ks in my stock, unaltered headlights and fogs. There is really not that much glare at all. I've riden towards my vehicle in a friends car as well as had someone drive the 4runner behind me with the lights on (both at night). Honestly, its not offensive at all.

The only time you will get flashed (or at least the only time I've ever been flashed) is going over a hill when your headlights will naturally aim higher than they would otherwise.

If you want the best and feel like you're a good DIYer, do the retrofit. Otherwise I would say save your money and just run with unaltered headlights with your HIDs. I've had mine like that for 2 years and I love it.

 

[riceandpho]

a complete retrofit will be around 300s, that includes the bulbs and ballast, also harness and shroud, projectors. its easy and only take hours to do, if ur good, u can complete under 4 hours. the easy way is to put in morimoto mini h1 projectors. The Retrofit Source online: headlight upgrades for all applications and HiDplanet : The Official Automotive Lighting Forum - The Buzz will have all the answers and steps for the retrofit. i use d2s projectors since d2s is a standard bulb.

 

[S p a r k y]

Just do HID's in your stockers. Thats what I have as well and love it. But I would suggest the 35watt ballast. 55 you will get flashed alot as they are alot brighter. I know this from experience.

 

[gaterose]

Upgrading to the 06+ headlights...

The headlight P/N isn't here, but most don't order OEM lamps; although I'm sure you can find it in there somewhere

You will need headlights ($100-300), filler panels (~$38/each), H11 HID kit (most kits include 9006 type connectors so you can plug you stock harness in) ($40-300, though I would stay away from the $40), DRL wiring harnesses (~$28/each) if you want to use the 06' up DRLs & turn signals.

I have done the swap and IMO

pros -
-better cutoff due to the projectors (if you do the squirrel finder mod) so you don't get flashed, although some members claim they don't get flashed. Personally I went 3 months without getting flashed then all of the sudden everyone was flashing me and I had big rigs chasing me down the interstate with their brights on.

-cool look IMO with 4 DRL lights instead of 2

-updated look

cons-
-cutoff isn't as good as a retrofit (which from what I've seen usually runs ~$300-500 depending on if you do it yourself or send it to someone else)

-small triangle that looks a bit off if you don't use the '06 grille which requires modification to work with the 03-05 bumper


The retro will have the best cutoff and clearest light but will take more time and money.

I debated for a long time but went with the '06 upgrade because I like the '06 lamps better and it seemed easier to me.