Another Headlight discussion

[Robrote]

My new to me 2012 RAM seems to have a common issue in that the headlights are awful. I have seen a lot of old posts about it, but thought I would start a fresh one in case there has been any new technology or resolutions to the dim headlights. Mine is a 2012 SLT with a single bulb on each side. What is the preferred solution to better lighting without breaking the bank?

 

[crash68]

Depending on how much your looking to spend.
Probably the least expensive route would be to find a set of OEM Quads in good condition and install LEDs in at least the Highs. I thought the light output using ZXEs halogens in the lows was fine.
The next step up would be to upgrade to a set of projectors whether you go aftermarket or OEM and them you could use HIDs in the lows or LEDs specialized for projectors. Still use LEDs in the Highs.
I have the Modifystreet/Alpharex projectors now and am happy with their performance and looks. I also added the dedicated DRLs

One thing you'll want to do coming from Dual headlights is to use AlfaOBD to change the headlight type in the BCM to Quads. That way both the Lows stay on with the Highs. If your truck has fog lights, you can also disable the fog light drop out with Highs also

 

[Elevated 2013]

There are several routes to go. Being that you don’t have projector headlights is a bonus. You can go with LED or HID headlights and get similar results. The only thing I don’t know is if you have a canbus system in the 2012 models. I’m sure someone will hop in and say something. There are several good choices for bulbs out there. I just spent $40 on a set of Innovited HID headlights that were 35 watt 5000k (very white) and I’m super happy with them. I got them on Amazon ( Innovited 35W AC Xenon HID Lights"All Bulb Sizes and Colors" with Slim Ballast - H7-5000K - Prue White - 2 Year Warranty https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NCQFKQ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6tJNDb224QCA9) and I know at least 1 other person on here that uses them a lot for his headlight upgrades (which he does a lot of) and has little to no issues at all over multiple months.

If you have a canbus system you will need to download AlphaOBD (a Windows or Android app) to your cell phone or laptop or tablet whichever you have with those operating systems that have Bluetooth as well for $49. You will also have to get a OBDLink MX+ (OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JFRFJG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) from Amazon and it’s $79. The app and tool have a ton of uses and are very helpful for diagnosing issues and turning on options. Not just for the headlight settings. You could salsa see if someone near you has them and ask them to change the setting for you.


I might get knocked down but you better be gone when I get up!

2013 Ram 1500 Sport Crew Cab, 4” Rough Country lift, 35x12.5x17 ProComp AT Sport tires, ProComp shocks and struts, Modify Street 2019 style polished black projector headlights, 3.92 differentials

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[Elevated 2013]

If you want to stick to normal halogen bulbs and not have to change any settings the SilverStars at any parts store are a DEFINITE upgrade in brightness and an easy 1 and done swap.


I might get knocked down but you better be gone when I get up!

2013 Ram 1500 Sport Crew Cab, 4” Rough Country lift, 35x12.5x17 ProComp AT Sport tires, ProComp shocks and struts, Modify Street 2019 style polished black projector headlights, 3.92 differentials

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Robrote]

If you want to stick to normal halogen bulbs and not have to change any settings the SilverStars at any parts store are a DEFINITE upgrade in brightness and an easy 1 and done swap.


I might get knocked down but you better be gone when I get up!

2013 Ram 1500 Sport Crew Cab, 4” Rough Country lift, 35x12.5x17 ProComp AT Sport tires, ProComp shocks and struts, Modify Street 2019 style polished black projector headlights, 3.92 differentials

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks for the input. How to I find out if this thing is canbus or not? I'm mechanically inclined, but have no experience with it. I like the sound of the Innovited. Were they plug and play on my housings, or would i need to modify?

 

[Elevated 2013]

They were completely plug and play and you don’t even need the instructions to figure out which plugs go where if you have some mechanical common sense/background.

As for the canbus, it’s the communication system within the truck between the computers. I don’t know if it does or doesn’t have it. You can send “OnSale” an experienced, amazing, super helpful member on here a private message and ask him if he doesn’t chime in here. He builds lots of headlights and would know whether yours has canbus or not.


I might get knocked down but you better be gone when I get up!

2013 Ram 1500 Sport Crew Cab, 4” Rough Country lift, 35x12.5x17 ProComp AT Sport tires, ProComp shocks and struts, Modify Street 2019 style polished black projector headlights, 3.92 differentials

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Graygoose]

H11 to H9?

 

[Steve Cloud]

Get a newer set of factory quads... with the right bulbs, they are just fine. A lot cheaper than many of the alternatives, as well.