I replaced my fog lamps with VLEDs and they've been pretty good.

I imagine replacing the headlamps on this model is not simple. I want to get a really bright LED replacement, the kind that piss me off and burn my retinas when I see them LOL But seriously, 55 yo here and I need brighter lights at night to see well.

I wonder if anyone here has some good recommendations? My 2013 RDX is in tip-top shape.

 

What you're likely experiencing is the common degradation of the reflective material inside the projector housing, causing diminished light output over time. This is a common issue on the 2013-15, assuming you have halogen headlights. An LED replacement will likely not be a sustainable solution, because #1 those projector housings were designed for the beam pattern of a halogen bulb (something that an LED cannot replicate, so your light output is going to be inconsistent due to how the LEDs are placed on the bulb), and #2 it's not solving the root of the issue, which is the deteriorated reflective material inside the projector housing. Unfortunately, the only practical solution to this (so far) is simply buying new headlights. Rockauto has an assortment of replacements, ranging from $170 to $300 a piece.

Again, just assuming you have halogen lights - it's just a shitty place to be in. A failure on Honda's part with a faulty product. And it's going to be more work to install an HID housing because you need to add the ballast and ignitor (I think). So the easiest, simplest way to get better light output is to buy new halogen housings, and a nice halogen bulb. Given that they'd both be new at that point, I'm certain it'll be a significant difference from the light output you're experiencing now.

 

Thanks for replying!

I have the HIDs, which I should have mentioned. I see what you're saying about the projector housing, something I had not even considered (always learning something!).

The bulbs I have in there are Sylvania/Osram -- I can't recall which one, but they are much better than the stock. Conversely, I replaced the fog lamps with LEDs and they are fantastic (different issue being solved there).

I understand that with LEDs you need to install a transformer (if that's the correct term) which needs to be done by someone experienced (risky).

As for the LEDs themselves, I am not certain which brands are more reliable. VLEDs (my fog lamps) are very good -- their customer service is exellent -- but I want the really bright LEDs for the lamps. I just don't know if I can do this for the 2013. The high beams are still halogens. Sounds like a complicated thing to consider. But as I said, I'm 55 and my night vision could use the boost in lighting -- I figure if all these teenagers can get these annoying (non-street-legal I imagine) lights, then I should be able to get them LOL


Thanks.

 

Stick to HID for the lowbeams, just do it.