IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013) Discussion about the 2006+ model IS models

Headlight Low Beam

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Old 07-30-24 | 09:26 PM
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Default Headlight Low Beam

I just purchased a 2009 IS 250 and the driver side low beam does not work. I tried replacing the HID bulb, but that did nothing.

I read that it might be a fuse, so I checked the headlight low beam fuse in the engine fuse box. It looks fine. I even switched it with the fog light fuse that I know works, and still nothing.

Is there possible another fuse in a different box that I am not aware of that could be causing the low beam not to work? Also, I checked the ballast and it does not look bad.
Old 07-31-24 | 01:51 PM
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how did you determine the ballast does not look bad? to make sure, swap left to right and see if the problem follows.
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sheetmetalfab (08-03-24)
Old 07-31-24 | 03:17 PM
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Default Ballast

Originally Posted by timmy0tool
how did you determine the ballast does not look bad? to make sure, swap left to right and see if the problem follows.
So, I just visually inspected it. And then tested it with an multimeter for continuity. Nothing. However, don’t I have to remove the entire light to test the ballast on the other side?

Last edited by dustypete; 07-31-24 at 05:00 PM.
Old 08-26-24 | 12:05 AM
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Default Bad ballast

Originally Posted by dustypete
So, I just visually inspected it. And then tested it with an multimeter for continuity. Nothing. However, don’t I have to remove the entire light to test the ballast on the other side?
so… it was the ballast. After taking apart the headlight and inspecting the ballast, it was corroded as heck. A new one did the trick.

Hardest part was heating up the seal so I could break it… I had to use a blow dryer because I didn’t have a heat gun.
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sheetmetalfab (08-26-24)
Old 08-26-24 | 04:16 PM
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Originally Posted by dustypete
so… it was the ballast. After taking apart the headlight and inspecting the ballast, it was corroded as heck. A new one did the trick.

Hardest part was heating up the seal so I could break it… I had to use a blow dryer because I didn’t have a heat gun.
Those are some serious green crusties. Eric O (South Main Auto YT) approves of their detection and repair =)
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