Replace ballasts in pairs?

StudioWizard · Post by **StudioWizard** » Sun Dec 31, 2023 3:00 am

Hey folks

I just bought some replacement headlights (bi-xenon) for my e85. One has a ballast attached and the other does not. Should I buy two new ballasts together or is OK to just add one new one? Both headlight assemblies are Hella from around 2012, although from different cars.

Thanks!

paddy wright · Post by **paddy wright** » Sun Dec 31, 2023 9:57 am

Only replace one- they are generic across many manufacturers and can be had for around £50 on eBay.

StudioWizard · Post by **StudioWizard** » Sun Dec 31, 2023 5:57 pm

But they do wear out over time, right? I'm just wondering if it makes sense to replace both since the headlights aren't installed yet. For that matter, since I also have to buy an ignitor, I could replace both of those as well... that is, if they wear out over time.

Motionblurrr · Post by **Motionblurrr** » Sun Dec 31, 2023 11:36 pm

They do wear out over time but the problem is, they don't wear out like bulbs do. Bulbs are on borrowed time in hours. When it comes to ballasts, some have premature failure and some last longer than the actual vehicle lol. If you can get a good deal for a pair, then it's a no brainer to install them both to start off fresh and brand new. And keep the old working ballast as either a back up or sell it to someone that would need it.

StudioWizard · Post by **StudioWizard** » Mon Jan 01, 2024 12:25 am

Does the same go for ignitors? One assembly came without the ignitor (and ballast).

paddy wright · Post by **paddy wright** » Mon Jan 01, 2024 11:39 am

Ballasts only tent to fail when water drains into them when the headlights have had condensation issues. Keep the condensation away and you shouldn’t have any issues with ballasts.

StudioWizard · Post by **StudioWizard** » Mon Jan 01, 2024 8:26 pm

OK, good to know!

StudioWizard · Post by **StudioWizard** » Mon Jan 01, 2024 8:29 pm

The cost of ballasts varies from $49 to over $500. Obviously, the "BMW" branded ones cost the most, but what about these other brands that are selling for $49-$100? Are they good? Any recommendations?

paddy wright · Post by **paddy wright** » Tue Jan 02, 2024 12:45 pm

EBay’s full of them and they are all fine. I’ve used them before.
New
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/173532378548 ... media=COPY
Used
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/173532378548 ... media=COPY

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