Just because you’re driving an older Jeep doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the modern features that come with newer Jeeps. Amping up your Jeep’s capability is easier than you think.
If you’re looking for an affordable upgrade that offers a lot of value, you should consider upgrading your Jeep’s headlights.
Why Upgrade Your Jeep’s Headlights?
Many Jeep owners agree that dim lighting in Jeeps (especially the JK model) is a common problem. An official cause of the problem hasn’t been determined, but the general consensus is that it’s caused by:
Poor reflector design
Poor lens design
Low voltage at the headlight due to relatively light gauge wiring
In older Jeeps, dim lighting can be caused by all of the above, plus corroded or loose connectors. Seeing well is really helpful when your on the trail at night. And if you're on the highway at night, seeing well can make this difference between hitting a deer and watching it jump into the woods.
Two Options: HIDs and LEDs
A good set of headlights makes all the difference while off-roading. Replacing your stock halogen headlights with a brand new set of high-quality aftermarket headlights will eliminate your issues with dim lighting. They will drastically increase your ability to see well at night.
While shopping for replacement headlights, you have two options: HIDs or LEDs.
Upgrading to HID Headlights
To improve their off-road lighting, a lot of people convert to HID headlights with a plug-and-play HID conversion kit. They install some ballasts, wiring, and other parts on the old hardware to make it work with HID lights.
HID (high-intensity discharge) lights produce energy using electrical and gas discharge. While halogen light bulbs have filament, HIDs have a capsule of gas that emanates light from a discharge between two electrodes.
Compared to halogens, HIDs are brighter, more illuminating, and more tolerant of cold temperatures.
Upgrading to LED Headlights
More and more major auto manufacturers are adding LED headlights to their newer models. LED lights are a massive upgrade from halogens. In fact, Jeep started offering LED headlights on their brand new Wranglers.
LED (light emitting diode) lights uses two types of semiconducting material to release colored photons. They shine brightly enough to illuminate well at night.
Compared to halogen and HID headlights, LEDs:
Shine brighter
Last about 10 times longer
Offer more optical clarity
Illuminate more at night
Draw 75% less power
Have a more modern look
Why LEDs are the Better Choice (in Our Opinion)
If we had to choose between HID headlights and LED headlights, we’d pick LEDs any day of the week because:
LEDs are the brightest option since they produce light more efficiently. More electricity is converted into light rather than heat.
LEDs last much longer.
Aftermarket LED headlight assemblies have better lenses and reflectors than Jeep OE headlights. (This doesn’t apply to post-2017 Jeep Wranglers, which already have LED lights.)
LEDs come with a couple of cons, though. They:
Cost more upfront. But they’ll likely save you money in the long run because they’re durable and will last a long time.
Are cool enough when turned on that they might not melt ice off the headlights. Halogen lights generate enough heat to melt the ice.
If you ask us, the pros outweigh the cons. LED headlights are also a great upgrade for those who are only concerned about improving their Jeep’s aesthetics. They add a modern flair to any car’s appearance.
By replacing your OEM halogen headlights with our LED headlights, you’ll catapult your Jeep ahead of some of the newest Jeeps on the trails these days.
Please contact us if you have any questions about upgrading to LED headlights on your Jeep.