One of my low beams is changing color, will probably die soon. I tried to remove it today, but on the passenger side access is blocked components (power steering hoses, big metal think, and more). On the driver side access is blocked by the ECM.

So....do I actually have to remove the clip/bumper and the removed the entire headlight assembly just to get the low beams out? (My 2011 RDX has HID bulbs)

When I peaked inside the low beam compartment I could see the metal box typical on HID bulbs, with number "w3t18371 0324". Would someone now the part number for the replacement HID bulbs (is it 33116-SL0-003)? I ordered from amazon but they don't look right.

 

D2S bulbs

 

Ok that makes sense - and the ignitor is separate? (does the D2S bulb plug into a separate ignitor (my Cadillac has combined bulb + ignitor)?

And if anyone else knows...I'm thinking the entire bumper must come off?

 

They’re separate . Dropping the bumper will make your life easier. You MIGHT be able to turn the wheel and get through the wheel well but it isn’t worth the hassle

 

According to the Acura repair manual the front bumper/cover needs to come off. From experience I'd recommend getting a Honda/Acura finder liner clip kit from Amazon or elsewhere since the clips tend to break when removing them. The kit is nice because it has the different length clips needed and plenty of them.

Xislet 6 in 1 Fender Liner Retainer Clips

 

I replaced my HIDs to OSRAMs Cool Blue 5000k-6000k on my 08 RDX over 10 years ago. I think the procedure of front bumper removal would not be that much different between the 07-09 and 10-12 model years? I had to remove the bumper to see bottom screws to pull out the entire headlight assembly to change out the bulbs. I placed the bumper on a blanket and left the fogs connected. I would also recommend getting replacement nylon clips of various sizes because some clips will be missing, worn out holes that need a larger clip to secure, and you will break a few brittle clips in the removal process. There were YouTube vids on RDX bumper removal when I did the HID change out. Unless you have damage to the front bumper, it should be around 30-45 min job switching out HIDs with a difficulty level around the same as rotating tires.