Fix BMW HID headlights with a new ballast

Fix your BMW HID headlights

If you have a problem with your BMW HID lights and you have tested power to the headlight igniter (also called an HID ballast), the problem could be either the bulb or the igniter/ballast. The parts from BMW cost a fortune. But Standard Motor parts now sells aftermarket ballasts. A ballast puts out very high voltage, so don’t try testing the old unit unless you know exactly what you’re doing.

The R66004 unit for BMW HID lights fits the following vehicles:

BMW HID ballast

2000-1997 BMW 528i
2003-1997 BMW 540i
2003-2000 BMW M5
2003-2001 BMW 525i
2003-2001 BMW 530i

How BMW HID headlights work

High-Intensity Discharge headlights are also known as xenon headlights because they use xenon gas to produce the light. HID headlights are brighter and more efficient than traditional halogen headlights, which is why they are becoming increasingly popular in modern vehicles.

HID headlights work by passing an electric current through a gas-filled chamber. The chamber contains two electrodes, and when the current passes through the chamber, it ionizes the gas and creates an electric arc between the two electrodes. The electric arc produces a bright, white light that is much brighter than the light produced by traditional halogen headlights.

HID headlights consist of several components, including the bulb, the ballast, and the starter or igniter. The ballast is responsible for regulating the voltage and current that is supplied to the bulb, while the igniter is used to ignite the electric arc that produces the light.

HID headlights can fail for several reasons. One of the most common reasons for HID headlight failure is a problem with the ballast. The ballast is responsible for regulating the voltage and current that is supplied to the bulb, and if it fails, the bulb will not receive the correct amount of power. This can cause the bulb to flicker or not work at all.

Another common reason for HID headlight failure is a problem with the bulb itself. Over time, the gas can leak out of the bulb. This can cause the bulb to become dimmer or not work at all. HID bulbs can also fail if the electrodes become damaged or if the bulb is exposed to moisture.

HID headlights can also fail if there is a problem with the igniter. Depending the style, the igniter can be a separate component or built into the bulb itself. The starter is responsible for igniting the electric arc that produces the light, and if it fails, the bulb will not produce any light. Starters can fail if they become damaged or if they are exposed to moisture.

©, 2015 Rick Muscoplat