High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights are an alternative to standard halogen headlights. These lights are more luminescent and allow the driver to see additional surroundings. Popularity of HID lights is growing as HID kits become available in general auto stores and online.
HID headlights are bluish or greenish in color and much brighter than traditional halogen lights. These lights were originally made for expensive European cars but are becoming more popular in the U.S. According to the Lighting Research Center (LRC), HID headlights allow drivers to see farther distances at night while using less energy.
HID lights can help you see possible objects on the side of road, such as animals, signs, people or bicyclists, better than traditional lights, according to the LRC. The brightness of HID lights is due to the mixture of xenon, metal halide salts and mercury in the bulb.
You can have HID headlights installed by a professional or install an HID headlight kit yourself. HID lights are typically simple to install, but you have to be careful when installing the lights because the bulbs are very sensitive. Oil from your fingers can cause the bulbs to explode once they heat up.
Drivers report that HID lights have increased glare and can be blinding for oncoming vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, if installed properly, the HID headlights shouldn't create dangerous glare, and the NHTSA reports that the HID headlights aren't over the maximum allowed illumination. HID headlights can also be dangerous if broken because of the possible release of mercury vapor.
