S2000 HID to LED conversion ... DIY, NO KIT!

The S2000 is equipped with factory xenon bulbs. It was nice back then... it was expensive back then... it is expensive still. 

When your bulbs go, you're looking at a good 60Euro/each, but have some moisture enter the headlight body and the ballast will go, and those are WAY more expensive. 

And trust me, they'll go out some day. There is also the matter that they are not Bi-xenon, They light pretty good ahead, but more is better, and they take their time to heat and provide the best light. LED, on the other hand, is powerful, cheap, they last longer and you can use the increased efficiency to add power to the package... equaling MORE LIGHT. 

So how did I do it?

1- Remove the front bumper, and while with the wrench at hand, remove the headlight lower support (small metal bar under the headlight assembly)

 

2- Without surprises... proceed to remove the headlights.

3- Start to dissemble the headlight. The ballast is external on this boy, so you can just remove it and, if it works, EBAY the thing. You'll never need that again. Remove also, the lamp, coil pack and cable.

4 - Depending on the LED bulbs you've chosen, you may have to make some adjustments to the fittings, I used a step-drill and bored enough to fit an H7 1300W equivalent, vented aluminum light.  If you opt for h1's you'll probably find out there's a lot less to drill. Still It's all plastic so the drilling is messy but easy. 

DO NOT forget to air-blast the assembly till all the dust comes out. Else, you need to place the headlight assembly in the oven (soften the glue) and then pull the glass appart to clean...NOT an enjoyable experience.

5 - Create the Wiring for the new Lights. You'll need to plug into the ballast input plug.

You should test the connections before insulating them.

 

 Remember: if it doesn't work, check the polarity.

6 - Use a good Insulator. I'm a fan of T-Rex... it's good, easy to work with and it can resist a nuclear attack. 

Do not forget : you're fighting moisture... and THAT gets everywhere! Make sure you're sealing things nicelly. 

Do not worry with dismantling as LED lasts way longer and, in this case, changing bulbs is easier with the front off and light assembly out... you can go crazy on the insulation.

7 - Test!

Presence lights:

 

LowBeams:

 

HighBeams:

 

 

The end result is better light (even during day time and with garage lighting, it's noticeable), longer life, WAY less money and it's cool :)