Xenon lights? is it more than just a bulb ?

Question

I recently traded my 350Z for an X Terra. I used to love the blue xenon lights on my z, and I thought I could just buy xenon light bulbs and replace the ones on the xterra, to get the same effect.
I called the parts dept at my Nissan dealership, and I was told that
it is a whole system that creates the effect I had with my Z lights.
Basically, he said that if I just change the bulbs, I will not get the same light effects on the X terra. Am sure he knows what he is talking about, but so many of you responded in a previous question that the xenon bulbs are purchasable anywhere, and produce the white blueish light. Tell me from your experience .
Am basically confused, please clarify !
Thanks :)

Answer 1

Here's the deal... The lighting system on the 350Z and some other cars is called a HID lighting system. It uses a special amplifier, ect., ect. blah blah blah to create an intense beam of light that is "hotter" than a halogen bulb.

HOWEVER, you can buy a "Xenon" bulb off the internet or at a store that has a blue tint on it. This mimics the look of the HID lighting. While not as bright, you will have that clean and crisp look of the white light, and people that look at the lights will see that cool blue tint to them.

Just make sure the bulb you buy has the blue tint on it. Some of the "Xenon" bulbs still look like halogen bulbs because they don't have enough tinting on them.

I suggest you buy the bulbs from eBay if you want the white/blue crisp light. I saw in your other question that someone had recommended the Sylvania Silverstars... I had Silverstars on my Mustang and they looked like regular halogen lights. However, I bought a set of bulbs on eBay for my motorcycle and they look like a real HID system has been installed on the bike.