Buy Lexus IS250 Headlight Assembly

Here's the full picture on the Lexus IS 250 headlight-also called a headlamp, front light assembly, or driving light.

Overview

The IS 250 uses a sealed plastic housing that holds the low-beam, high-beam, parking bulb, and wiring in one unit. Older model years (2006-2015) came with either halogen reflectors or HID/Xenon projectors; later trims add LED running lights and auto-level motors. The lamp bolts to the fender and bumper, so front-end removal is often needed for full swap-outs.

Compatibility

• Model years 2006-2013 (second generation) share the same housing shape.
• Bulb sizes
  • Low beam - H11 for halogen cars; D4S for factory HID trims.
  • High beam - 9005 across all trims.
  • Some 2014-2015 facelift cars use LED modules that are not serviceable bulb-by-bulb.
• Always match the socket and watt rating to avoid warning lights or heat damage.

Features

Halogen versions rely on a mirrored reflector. HID units use a projector lens that cuts stray glare and makes a bright, bluish-white beam. Most HID housings include an electronic ballast on the bottom; if water gets in, the ballast can short and shut the lamp off.

Common Problems

• Condensation / water beads - often from a blocked vent or a hair-line crack. A quick DIY fix is venting the unit with a hair-dryer and resealing the edge.
• Lens yellowing - UV rays cloud the polycarbonate. Owners report that periodic polish plus a wax or UV-film keeps lenses clear.
• Burned bulbs - Halogen filaments average 1,000 hours, while HID capsules last around 2,000.

Regulations

U.S. headlamps must meet FMVSS 108 for brightness, aim, and glare. After any adjustment or bulb change, check the official height pattern: the top of the low-beam cut-off should fall about two inches lower than the lamp center when the car is 25 ft from a wall. A free aiming guide is in this community post. You can also verify recall or TSB work with the NHTSA lookup tool.

Installation Tips

1. Remove the bumper cover screws and clips; a detailed walk-through is in this Lexus Owners Club thread.
2. Unbolt the lamp (three 10 mm bolts) and unplug the harness.
3. Swap the assembly; torque mounting screws to about 75 in-lb to avoid cracks.
4. Re-aim the beam using the white nylon cog on top of the housing-clockwise raises, counter-clockwise lowers.

Maintenance

• Wash the lens with car-soap, not ammonia glass-cleaner, to protect the UV coat.
• If haze begins, use a plastic polish kit, then seal with wax twice a year.
• Keep rear dust caps seated; that stops moisture and dust from reaching the bulb base.

Upgrade Options

LED retrofit kits are popular because they run cooler and draw less power, but choose units marked "DOT compliant" and keep color below 6,000 K to pass state inspections. For HID users wanting whiter light, replacement D4S capsules in 4300 K-5000 K keep stock beam focus.

Costs

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Prices vary by shop rate and region.

Safety & Alignment

Poor aim can blind other drivers or leave dark spots ahead. Lexus owners confirm you can raise the beam three screwdriver turns to reclaim reach after lowering springs. Check aim every oil change or whenever the car carries heavy cargo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What bulb fits the low beam on a 2006-2013 IS 250?
A: H11 for halogen trims; D4S for factory HID trims.

Q: Why is my headlight full of fog?
A: A blocked vent or cracked seal lets moist air in; gently warming the housing and resealing the edge clears it.

Q: How can I stop the lens from turning yellow?
A: Polish twice a year and coat with UV-blocking wax or film.

Q: Is it legal to swap in LED bulbs?
A: Yes, if the kit is DOT-approved and the beam pattern stays factory-correct.

Q: Do I have to remove the bumper to change the lamp?
A: Yes for full assembly replacement; bulb swaps alone can be done from the back.

Q: How much does a new HID assembly run?
A: Around $1,100-$2,200 per side, depending on options.

Q: How often do bulbs burn out?
A: Halogens last about 1,000 hours; HID capsules roughly double that.

Q: Where can I check for official recalls?
A: Use the free .

Q: What's the right height aim?
A: With the car 25 ft from a wall, the low-beam cut-off should sit about 2 in below lamp center.

Q: Can yellowing fail an inspection?
A: Yes-cloudy lenses cut brightness and can cause test failure, as Ireland's NCT warns.

Q: Do projector and reflector lamps swap?
A: No; the mounting shape and beam optics differ, so use the correct type for your trim.

Q: What tools do I need for a DIY install?
A: 10 mm socket, stubby screwdriver, plastic clip-tool, and a torque wrench for the mounts.