I'm pretty sure my drivers side ballast is out. Should I replace it with an OEM ballast, or an aftermarket? I really don't know much about cars, so could someone please list the pros/cons of them?

I'm also not sure if the bulb/ignitor needs to be replaced as well. I know I can switch sides for the bulb to test it, but what about the ignitor? How would I know if that is damaged? Any tips and information would really help. Thank you!

 

First of all, try a known good bulb in the headlamp that's out.
Have you checked the effected side's wiring connection, ground and inspected components for moisture or corrosion ?

If after ya tried all this, then check the fuse and relay for that side. Ya gotta rule out the basics before ya assume that parts are bad,IMO. Check for more tips on other past threads and the "DIY" sticky concerning HID headlamp issues and replacement.

 

Is there another fuse other than the main fuse box to check? I need to get a T20 torx bit to access the headlight, but I've previously had moisture inside the lens. Should I switch the ballast and bulb to the working ballast and vice versa to check them? I read somewhere that hooking up a bad bulb/ballast with one that works could damage it. Is that true?

 

The underhood main fuse box contains the headlight relays and fuses #45 and #43, both 20A for each side. While some say to swap side's
with the HID components, I'd advise you to buy a new bulb and try it in the bad side before creating more potential issues with the existing
good side. (IMO) Ya never know for sure unless ya try ! Ya may get lucky.

Unless it's obvious that the bad side's HID components have been compromised by moisture. If that's clearly the case, then you have a choice of attempting to locate the "OEM" parts or the aftermarket kits available for less than $100 for the complete replacement kit.

Check our Black Market sponsor vendors for more HID kit details or try a search.

 

The fuses are all fine. Once the T20 bit comes I'll be able to access the headlight and test it. I'll go with your opinion. I rather not damage anything else. Hopefully it's just the bulb that burnt out and the ballast is alright. Thanks! Once I get it apart I'll let you know how it went.

 

moisture = fried ballast and cap unit

go to main gen2 TL thread list for lights..several active today
go to www.hidextra.com $59 gets all you need for both sides
suggest 5000k color bulbs

 

Agree on going with hidextra. I used there product and while I had an issue (right at the end of the warranty period), they were easy to deal with and replaced my failed components quickly and with more new components than needed to fix the issue. I am out of warranty now, but if I had a problem again (and didn't already have the replacement parts from my warranty replacement), I would definitely buy from them again.