Buy Lexus LS430 Headlight Assembly

Overview

The Lexus LS430 headlight-also called a headlamp, front light, or lamp assembly-is a sealed unit that lights the road, helps other drivers see you, and adds style to the 2001-2006 LS430 sedan. Early cars (2001-2003) use D2R high-intensity-discharge (HID) bulbs, while later cars (2004-2006) switch to D2S bulbs and add an Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) that turns the beams into curves for better night vision. (Diode Dynamics, Diode Dynamics, YouTube) Projector lenses focus the beam so it is bright for you yet gentle on on-coming traffic, and factory HIDs shine about twice as bright as old halogen lamps. (Better Automotive Lighting Blog)

Fitment & Years

• Fits: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 LS430 models (chassis code UCF30). (Diode Dynamics, Diode Dynamics)
• Left & right sides: The two housings are mirror images; always match the year range when you buy.
• Bulb chart snapshot:
  • Low beam: D2R (2001-03) / D2S (2004-06) (Diode Dynamics, Diode Dynamics)
  • High beam: 9005/HB3 (SEALIGHT)
  • Front turn/parking: 7440/7443 amber

Key Features

• HID Xenon power - 35 W HID burners output roughly 3,000 lumens each, giving clear white light and long bulb life. (Diode Dynamics)
• Projector optics - A round projector and cut-off shield shape the beam so glare stays low. (Better Automotive Lighting Blog)
• AFS corner lighting - On 2004-06 cars, small motors swivel the lens up to 15° in the direction you steer. (YouTube)
• Self-leveling - Height sensors on the suspension keep the beam aim correct during braking or with heavy cargo. (Club Lexus)

Common Problems

• Random flicker or shutdown is often a weak HID ballast, not the bulb. (Reddit)
• Condensation inside the lens comes from cracked vents or old seals; Lexus issued a moisture bulletin covering housing replacement. (NHTSA)
• "Headlight Leveling" dash light usually means a seized rear height sensor or damaged wiring. (YouTube, Club Lexus)

Maintenance Tips

• Clean the clear cover with plastic-safe soap, then seal with UV protectant to slow yellowing.
• Polish haze using a mild plastic polish if the lamp looks cloudy.
• Dry light moisture by removing the bulb cap and running the low beams for 15 minutes on a dry day. (Lexus Owners Club)

Installation Basics

1. Turn the wheel inward for access.
2. Remove two fender-liner clips.
3. Twist the bulb cap counter-clockwise.
4. Unplug the connector and rotate the bulb holder.
5. Fit the new D2R or D2S bulb; never touch the glass. (Detailed walk-through in this step-by-step video.)

Safety & Law

• HID bulbs contain a small amount of mercury; recycle them at a household hazardous-waste site. (US EPA)
• U.S. rules (FMVSS 108) allow LED or HID retrofits only if the headlamp still meets the same beam specs; wiring must shut off if one LED fails. (NHTSA)
• AFS helps you see around bends but cannot substitute for safe driving-keep speed down on dark roads. (YouTube)

Upgrades & Customizing

• LED conversion kits cut power draw and start instantly; choose units with proper D2 adapters and DOT-compliant beam patterns. (NHTSA)
• Clear-lens retrofits give a sharper cut-off and modern look but require baking the housing open.
• Tint or film can protect against rock chips; pick clear film so light output stays legal.

Environmental & Disposal

HID lamps last long, yet when they fail you must handle them like a used battery because of mercury. Take burnt-out bulbs to a community hazardous-waste facility-never toss them in household trash. (US EPA)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What years does the LS430 headlight fit?
A: It fits every UCF30-chassis LS430 built from 2001 through 2006. (Diode Dynamics, Diode Dynamics)

Q: Which bulb goes in the low beam?
A: Early cars use D2R HID bulbs; later cars use D2S. Always match your model year. (Diode Dynamics, Diode Dynamics)

Q: Why does my light blink off after a few minutes?
A: A worn ballast often overheats and shuts down; replace the ballast first. (Reddit)

Q: How do I clear condensation?
A: Dry the lamp with low-beam heat and reseal the vents; severe cases need a new housing per Lexus moisture guidance. (NHTSA, Lexus Owners Club)

Q: What is Adaptive Front-Lighting?
A: AFS turns the projectors into the curve, helping you see the corner sooner at night. (YouTube)

Q: How do I reset the "Headlight Leveling" warning?
A: Fix or replace the height sensor arms first, then clear the code with an OBD scanner. (YouTube, Club Lexus)

Q: Can I swap in LED bulbs?
A: Yes, if the finished beam still meets DOT aim and glare rules. (NHTSA)

Q: Do HID bulbs have mercury?
A: Yes, a small amount. Recycle them like batteries to protect the environment. (US EPA)

Q: How bright are factory HIDs?
A: Roughly 3,000 lumens each-about twice a halogen bulb. (Diode Dynamics)

Q: What tools do I need to change a bulb?
A: A trim-clip remover, small ratchet, and clean gloves are usually enough. (See linked video above for details.) (YouTube)

Q: Can polishing restore yellowed lenses?
A: Yes. Light plastic polishing removes haze, and a UV-sealant keeps them clear longer. (Lexus Owners Club)

Q: Will headlights aim themselves when I load the trunk?
A: The self-leveling system adjusts beam height automatically, so you stay within legal aim even with passengers or cargo. (Club Lexus)

Helpful links used above:

• AFS video demo
• NHTSA moisture bulletin
• EPA guidance on mercury bulbs
• Projector-vs-reflector beam article
• LED legality note from NHTSA
• Reddit ballast troubleshooting
• Condensation warranty discussion
• DIY bulb change video
• Level sensor help thread