Best aftermarket headlight replacements?

They don't cost 300.

These are street legal, the retrofits are not. Texas does inspections, i was an inspector.........

 

Depends on the state, some states are tough with retrofits, others are not. Most retrofits while not DOT certified they can still be DOT compliant.

 

clean them up

$22 Meguiar's Two Step Headlight Restoration Kit, Headlight Cleaner Restores Clear Car Plastic and Protects from Re-Oxidation, Includes Headlight Coating and Cleaning Solution - 4 Count (1 Pack)

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Two-Step-Headlight-Restoration/dp/B01M75GUJB

 

And how is that? Federal vehicle code says ANY retrofit not from an authorized mfg is for “off highway use only”

The code specifically notes HID swaps into halogen lenses... the only way it would even be a grey area is if the vehicle had that option from factory.

 

Unofficial DOT. Then again, CA doesn't do inspections like some states. I've retros for 7+ years and never had an issue with law enforcement. They're properly aimed and looks factory.

 

Under CARB you are most likely illegal anyway, I think farting in your car in CA is illegal as it might change the cars emissions...

Hate the governance of that once great state...

 

Would you take a trade of some factory ones(excellent condition) and cash?

 

Yeah it says putting HID bulbs in units that were designed for Halogen bulbs and DOT approved. it doesn’t talk about retrofitting projectors, with HID bulbs specifically made for said projectors.

I’ve never been stopped by the headlight police in any state, but then again I don’t have or recommend putting HID’s where they don’t belong in reflectors like a lot of people.

 

@Hesher Lord I've used both. The tyc leaked/fogged, twice! The depo are still going strong in my better half's Corolla.

 

There ain’t no headlight police, however, the Fed code DOES state all lights on a vehicle MUST be DOT certified for street operation.
The part about the HID stuff is meant to address the new tech that was emerging when this code was updated. IF the cop wants he can cite you for defective equipment and/or impound the vehicle for same. Especially in CA... physically seen it and been stopped for inspection, CHP wrote one guy for exhaust, turn signals, tinted windscreen, plate location, smoked tail lights, and HID lights.

The way it has been explained to me by a few judges is the vehicle must have the “modification” as an option from the factory or the add on equipment must be certified road legal and comply with aftermarket laws of the jurisdiction in which one is traveling.

You have been lucky, I do know that most cops are not gonna pull you for just headlights, they are likely to check things out if they stop you for.. say 85 in a 70.

 

selling the depos?

 

Sure. Don’t need em kicking around.. where you located?

 

I’m going 2.5 gen front end swap. I have my next set of retrofits ready.

 

Based on this thread, IF choosing the cheaper route of non-Toyota assemblies, it appears that Depo has a decent reputation of being close to stock. Would we agree with that?

 

yes. all others seem to be very hit or miss on the seal quality. if i did go the cheap route, i’d bake them and reseal.

 

Ah yes, I used to play that game with mustang assemblies from china. Thanks for the reply.

 

You guys mention going with either "Depo" or "TYC brand replacements" Is there a vendor/website you can order from? My 2011 headlights are BEAT UP... Please let me know.

Saw this link and it seems to good to be true: http://www.topgearautosport.com/par...MI4Yub_JPT4wIVjICfCh0cnwx6EAQYAyABEgIZbvD_BwE

 

Seems to be better than things like Spyder.

FYI, I have Spyder units, no leaks. In some they use screws which help to ensure a seal.
They have been through Seattle rain and ice and now Texas heat, no issues except making sure the lenses are cleaned and waxed or polished every couple of weeks.

The optics are crap, the look is “cool”

Might want to ask @crashnburn80 if he has tested output on the depo units.

 

Those look like the cheap China replacements
There is a DOT code on the lens, which is good, can’t tell on the backing....
For 160bucks I would do it, even if they leak after a year you get a pair for less than the OEM price for just one. Some good silicone sealer and a finger can always ensure the halves are more water resistant.