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How to wire new OEM LED headlights in an old car

Old Nov 6, 2025 | 08:44 AM
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G500 2005
How to wire new OEM LED headlights in an old car

I have got a set of new LED headlights that I eventueally want to install in my 2005 (halogen) W463. (fitment I worry about later) But first I want to test them. Does anyone know how to wire them? The connector on the units are 14-pin but only have 6 pins in use. (1,2, 4, 6, 7 and 8). Can you just put 12v somewhere?

Thanks a lot.



Last edited by Niek; Nov 6, 2025 at 08:52 AM.
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Old Nov 6, 2025 | 11:19 PM
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Do not just apply 12v. You will likely destroy the LED modules. They require a specific CAN bus signal from the car's computer to function. For a test, you need a specialized power supply that can simulate the CAN signal. Your best bet is to consult the wiring diagram for the specific model they were designed for.
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Old Nov 10, 2025 | 11:10 AM
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G500 2005
Originally Posted by Alexie
Do not just apply 12v. You will likely destroy the LED modules. They require a specific CAN bus signal from the car's computer to function. For a test, you need a specialized power supply that can simulate the CAN signal. Your best bet is to consult the wiring diagram for the specific model they were designed for.
Thanks for assisting. I spent last weekend looking for a wiring diagrams of the >2018 model. No luck. If you know where to find one please let me know. On the other hand, If there's a computer in the headlight that needs a signal, I still don't know what the signal looks like and how to simulate it. Is that do-able? My job is in home/professional lighting. I would say; can I disconnect the controle unit and feed the LED's directly with the voltage or current they need to operate?
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Old Nov 11, 2025 | 11:13 PM
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Originally Posted by Niek
Thanks for assisting. I spent last weekend looking for a wiring diagrams of the >2018 model. No luck. If you know where to find one please let me know. On the other hand, If there's a computer in the headlight that needs a signal, I still don't know what the signal looks like and how to simulate it. Is that do-able? My job is in home/professional lighting. I would say; can I disconnect the controle unit and feed the LED's directly with the voltage or current they need to operate?
Don't try to run the LEDs directly. The car's computer needs to communicate with the headlight control unit. Bypassing it will cause errors. Look for a plug-and-play adapter harness from a specialty lighting company instead.
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