Hey everyone - been quite a long time since I've been around here.

I've recently started experiencing an issue since (probably coincidentally) the midwest was hit with single digit/below zero temps. My passenger side low beam doesn't alway pop on when the car starts, and can take an on/off twist on the headlight bar multiple tries until it pops on. When it does, it typically will stay on but occasionally will go back out. The passenger side has a much lumen output overall, different appearance, and an almost tungsten color at times.

I've never worked with the HID D2S low beam setup in the TSX, and honestly, don't have much experience with HID systems at all. I've seen outrageous prices for different parts of the system, so I was hoping someone might be able to help me understand if I should be looking at a bulb, ballast, or igniter replacement?

Fuse has already been checked. Never noticed the headlight 'fading' up to this point and all seems to be an immediate change. Almost feels as though its an electrical issue not getting enough power. Car has another issue with a really weird acceleration stutter around 3k so hopefully these are two completely isolated issues and not a full electric problem (ignition + headlights). Will troubleshoot that on it's own though.

Headlights are fairly cheap, but OEM ballast and igniter replacements I know are pricier, so I'd assume most would recommend going the aftermarket route with an all-in-one system?

Anyways, whatever help I can get - really appreciate it. I'll work to get some photos if needed.

 

100 views and not a single reply? Somebody surely can shed some light on troubleshooting the HID system in our cars.

Otherwise, I'd also be interested in hearing what most people do for aftermarket options to replace the system since OEM parts are set to an insane premium price.

 

sounds like ballast. Switch bulbs from side to side to rule them out..

 

Researching everything more, it definitely seems like a ballast issue. Unfortunate since it seems most of these parts in the HID system are built for life.

I was originally planning on swapping everything for an aftermarket setup, but I think an OEM ballast (even used) doesnt seem to be terribly expensive.

Do I have options with my '09 for other ballasts that would work the same, or do I need to stick with an Acura specific ballast?

I've read most people say that removing the bumper is necessary for doing a lot of this work, but if I'm just swapping out ballasts, is this something I can do from the engine bay? My passenger side is the one that's out, but I know I'll need to get to both if im swapping them to isolate the issue.

Any advice or insight would be really appreciated.

 

it would be much easier if bumper removed, unless you're planning to get access from splash guard which limited space.

 

I'm planning on getting to this project this weekend hopefully depending on when parts get in.

I have determined that my passenger side ballast has to be the culprit here causing the issues. Knowing which which component is causing issues, and that pairs tend to react in similar ways so the other side may need to be replaced too, I want to ensure that I do the most 'future proof' and cost effective option possible.

The OEM ballast can be replaced for a decent penny, but nothing out of this world. If I had to get two though, that would add up fast I think. Would you guys recommend just going ahead and replacing with aftermarket, or working to stay OEM for possible superior performance?

 

OEM in this case

 

What he said. OEM

 

I read in different posts/forums that aftermarket HID bulbs require aftermarket ballasts. Does anyone know what brand and model bulb is OEM for our 2nd Gen TSXs (specifically a 2009)?

I am contemplating purchasing the D2S Phillips 85122 and was wondering if it is simply plug-and-play or whether I will need to purchase and install new (Phillips) ballasts to get the bulbs to work.

Here's a link to the bulbs I am considering (https://www.theretrofitsource.com/d2s-philips-85940.html?carDisplay=2009+Acura+TSX+%28HID+Equipp ed%29&preselect=&preselect_restrict=).

Thanks.

 

That's fine. What you read is false.