Upgrading stock HID's
08-22-2012, 12:35 AM
#1
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2011 C300 4MATIC
Upgrading stock HID's
I have a 2011 C300 4Matic with the stock HID package (looks like 6000k or 8000k). I want to go up to 10,000k, maybe even 15,000k. Is it as simple as going to my local shop and replacing the bulb? Or does MB use a proprietary connector / ballast setup??
Also, I would appreciate any pics of members who have changed their HID color temp. I'm sure this has been answered before, but I'd like to consolidate the answer / examples into one thread.
Thanks!
Also, I would appreciate any pics of members who have changed their HID color temp. I'm sure this has been answered before, but I'd like to consolidate the answer / examples into one thread.
Thanks!
08-22-2012, 04:04 AM
#2
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2010 C200 CGI
Technically yes, you can just get the correct based bulb to change to a higher kelvin temp. However, you would lose so much usable light going past 6000k (btw, OEM is 4300-4500k). Higher kelvin temp DOES NOT mean more light. If you really want to change, I wouldn't go past 6k. Read up on sites like Daniel Stern (http://danielsternlighting.com/) and HID Planet (http://www.hidplanet.com/forums/forum.php?)
08-22-2012, 10:38 AM
#3
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Knightmare is absolutely correct. Stock temp is around 4300k but it looks more blue due to the projector. If you got to 10000k or 15000k not only will it be horrendously ugly but it will also be no brighter than halogens.
08-22-2012, 10:41 AM
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2011 C300 4MATIC
I've used 10,000k and 30,000k before so I know what to expect. 10,000k is excellent for brightness, 30,000k was a little overboard. I was thinking 15,000k for the exotic look. Anyone running 15,000k??
08-22-2012, 12:24 PM
#5
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Just get replacement D1S bulbs in the kelvin range you prefer and it's an easy swap. 30,000K is like extreme pink in color and yeah, I'd highly recommend against it. You could get away with 10,000K, as long as you're fine with the diminished lumen.
08-22-2012, 12:39 PM
#6
MBWorld Fanatic!
10,000k is by no means excellent for brightness, but to each his own if you think it looks nice. I think it is more befitting of a 1987 Honda Civic, but that's just my opinion.
Last edited by LILBENZ230; 08-22-2012 at 12:46 PM.
08-23-2012, 01:34 PM
#7
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im not sure if anyone has stated above but oem xenons for our cars are d1s bulbs so yes you can buy a new d1s pull the harness from the old bulb out plug it into the new one and your done
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08-24-2012, 11:46 AM
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2005 MB C230K Sport Sedan & 2011 MB C300
Originally Posted by redkid's ml
im not sure if anyone has stated above but oem xenons for our cars are d1s bulbs so yes you can buy a new d1s pull the harness from the old bulb out plug it into the new one and your done
Question for the op: Is this bulb swap intended for looks or functionality? I've tried, 6k, 8k, and 10k kelvin ranges on current and previous vehicles before and have concluded that the 4300k-6000k has provided the best light output.
8k gave me difficulty during rain, but was OKAY during pitch black darkness like driving on 2 lane highways late at night.
and 10k? from a distance it looked cool and bright, but when driving it had too much color and distorted my visibility.
I'd highly recommend considering what main intent is here - looks or functionality. For me, I'd prefer total functionality
