the big set of HID questions

[02whiteLE]

I'm keeping my gen 5, but I want to make a few upgrades. Specifically to HID. I've seen the hundreds of threads already on the subject, but I'm looking for a clear and definitive answer to a few questions that I've, as yet, been unable to get.
What's the BEST way to go with HID?
How much should I reasonably expect to pay for this mod to be done RIGHT?
How easy is it for someone with limited skill to do?
Where's the best spot to find the RIGHT parts to do the job?

I do a lot of night driving, and I have always wanted to upgrade the headlights. Understand that if I go with true HID, I will be expecting a world of difference. Standard Camry headlights are already pretty good, so I'll be pissed if I spend a lot of money on the upgrade and end up with lights that work less effectively, but have the HID look to them only. If I'm just wanting the look, and no improvement, I'll get another set of silverstars.

Looking at pictures of beam patterns does absolutely nothing for me. I'd like some real world users of properly done HID's to post and say whether they're worth the money. I realize that, like any mods, I'm going to lose every bit of the money when I get rid of the car.

[thapranksta]

What's the BEST way to go with HID?Depends on the look you are going for and what you have room for. This factor is decided almost solely by the projectors that you use. Some produce a cutoff line with very colorful light, some produce really bright light, and some produce really defined light with a sharp cutoff line. Also depends on your budget.

How much should I reasonably expect to pay for this mod to be done RIGHT?Depends on the quality of the work. If you do it yourself, it should be at the least $550 (rough estimate) considering odd tools and accessories you need to make everything look and work right. If someone does it for you, considerably more.

How easy is it for someone with limited skill to do?Depends on how handy you are. If you are a clutz, you might not want to try it. It takes time, research, and patience.

Where's the best spot to find the RIGHT parts to do the job?www.hidplanet.com and www.ebay.com

How do I know? I am working on a hid retrofit on a 2003 Camry and I am a member of hidplanet.com. The forum is filled with plenty of useful information. They also sell hid packages with all new OEM equipment. You might find a deal on parts on ebay but the equipment will be used. My advice is that if you are serious, become a member of hidplanet.com. They have plenty of information and members who will do your retro for you if you feel uncomfortable (for a nice fee of course).

[[SMAN]]

Yeah definatly check out the forum at hidplanet. I'm an avid member there and the wealth of knowledge there is just astounding. You'll get more info than you could imagine.

[CamryOwner98]

All true. All my research was done on HIDplanet and FAQ Lighting (linked on HID planet). Always get projectors when you retro. If you wanted the good output, projectors are the only way to go.

[02whiteLE]

Thanks. I signed up for HIDplanet. We'll see what I can find there.