Hey,

So i previously had D2S 6000K HID headlights from Diode Dynamics installed on my 2010 G37, I always thought they were dim because of age, so I replaced them with 8000K D2S HID bulbs from Diode Dynamics as well. But they are still really dim, It's almost as bad as driving with no headlights.

Has anyone had this problem before?

 

Anything over 5-6K will give you decreased visual light. The higher the Kelvin (K) rating, the darker/more colored the light output will appear. 8K is just too blue/borderline purple.

Most OEM bulbs are 4300K. I am running 5500K which also seems to be the sweet spot for many.

 

what he said about OEM vs 6000k lights

 

The color temperature likely is not the issue, 6000K is going to provide nearly the same total light as 4300K. It's only 8000K and above where you really start seeing lower visible output.

Unfortunately, with the age of your headlamps it is most likely that the metallization coating in the projector is worn, and just not shining as much light out anymore. This is a known and common issue with nearly all metallized HID projectors over time. I have a 2009 coupe and I'm trying to determine whether to buy new headlamps for the same reason.

Paul

 

Got some Osram CBB and its a lot better than the OEM Philips. Yes it does say 7000K and when you first start the car its very blue but in 30 sec it goes straight white around 5500K. But I would recommend them.