hey, i have a problem with my driver side headlight...i thought it was the bulb, so i bought a new one. come to find out it wasnt hte problem...someone mention it could be the ballast... need help on this on... 2002 tl
thanks

 

did you buy the correct HID bulb?

swapping bulbs left to right sides will tell if its a bulb or ballast problem
These bulbs should be replaced in pairs, as they dim and change color with use
You want matched lights!

 

More than likely the igniter or the ballast - the bulbs if original should be okay but the chances are it's the ballast.

The location of the ballasts and if seem to wash your car often or it's in the rain seems to have helped increase issues with the headlights going on and off. I had replaced my ballast and igniter and that corrected the issue - at the same time I replaced the bulbs.

The funny part the issue really only surfaced during colder and wet weather - bad luck? Possibly...

This is really a DIY job - no reason to pay the dealer or a shop... DON'T buy the parts from Acura - get it from the sponsors (best bet) on this forum or off eBay...

 

the housings have a crummy seal; moisture gets inside and drips down and out the hole for the wiring--right onto the ballast
water+ electrical= bad news

 

car washes are really bad places for the seal~

 

I had an issue with the drivers side lamp itwill turn on the first time but if I swicht it off and on it wont come on the dealer said it's the igniter $750 part so I'm buying it from eBay and replacing it my self

 

i have replaced a few of these ballasts on the tls. Come to think of it, my drivers side headlight went out and needs a new ballast. i'll be installing a new one in a few days as soon as it comes in.