Hi all,

Preface: I have looked at DRL how-to's from other forums.

For those that have changed/replaced their DRL bulbs on HID equipped RA's, is there some trick to the last step when removing them? I got the cover off no problem, but there is absolutely no budging in the socket. They have to be twisted counter-clockwise and be pulled out, but even using a screwdriver as leverage the thing just wouldn't go. Actually managed to bend the screwdriver in the process. Anyone know what gives? Did they superglue these things in?

Appreciate any feedback!

 

It's a PITA for sure. after you twist the covers off, you need to twist the bulb hold until it kind of pops loose. if you look through the lens you can see which way you need to turn the holder, i think its got 3 tabs and likes to chew up your hands and fingers.

 

Yeah, I see there's a little notch in the tabs where it locks into the reflector housing. Do you remember whether you had to apply inward pressure on the grey socket while twisting? Thanks!

 

Just have to twist

 

I am going to the dealer today for a free oil change...and one of me DRLs is out. Glad I can have them do it instead and under warranty (I hope), I'm sure my fat fingers would screw it up...and get screwed up in the process.

 

Be carful with those free oilchange couplons. Its only for conventional oil, not synthetic like they put in the Evo's. I opted to pay the dif.. and it was $30!! . it was last time I ever used that coupon.

Also If you guys switch to led's you'll have to change it less. just make sure its an led bulb rated for 14v

 

Attempt #2 was successful, although I did destroy one of the original DRL bulbs in the process by dropping it. In case anyone else has the same problem I did, what I found to be the best method was to apply rotating pressure to the inner tabs of the socket (not the large outside ones). Passenger side required removal of the washer fluid overflow tube and reservoir behind it otherwise space is tight. Also, wearing gloves is an absolute must...otherwise your hands will be cut to hell. I still managed to cut myself when picking up the pieces of the bulb though due to my own moment of stupidity.

 

The passenger-side DRL bulb (that was just replaced last week!) is out again. Is there some known issue with that side DRL wiring or something else?

 

In the first year of owning the car I went through countless DRL Bulbs. Nokya were the worst but looked the best (3 months average lifespan). Stock bulb seem to hold up well.
The problem I think is that the DRL has 14v going to it (Evo X threads confirmed this) and most bulbs are rated for 12v. Ever since I moved to an 18 LED bulb rated for 14v it has has yet to fail (over 1 year and going).

 

neogeo64: Can give me the name or website where you got the LED DRLs? Thanks!

 

http://www.superbrightleds.com/produ...n/163,811,395/

I got the 1156 Amber, most people go for the Cool White. The Warm White looks like the stock bulb (yellowish)

 

Thanks for the link. I got the cool whites. Took about 5 minutes to install (by my wife and her small hands). I couldn't get in the small space at all. Anyway, it looks great, almost looks like an LED headlight! Almost. But it's a much more effective DRL than with the oem bulb. Thanks again for the help.

 

Good info

 

Update: 2 1/2 years and still going strong.
I would recommend these to anyone tired of replacing DRL bulbs.