Where to Look for White Light and Yellow Light in Xenon Lamps?
3 Answers
Distinguish between white light and yellow light xenon lamps by checking the color temperature value on the packaging. The color temperature value for golden light is 3000K, for yellow-white light is 4300K, and for ultra-white light is 6000K. Advantages of modifying xenon headlights: After modification, the vehicle's lighting effect will be improved. Xenon lamps also have a longer lifespan than halogen lamps, with comfortable color temperature that can effectively reduce driver's visual fatigue, directly and significantly enhancing driving safety. Precautions for modifying xenon lamps: Do not install the ballast next to a heat source; it can be mounted on the bumper to assist with heat dissipation. During installation, ensure the wiring of the dedicated wire set is as aesthetically pleasing as possible and avoid connecting it to heat sources to prevent short circuits or wire breakage due to excessive temperature.
I've been driving for over a decade and changed xenon lights five or six times, so I know this issue well! The most straightforward way to distinguish between white and yellow light is to observe the emitted color after turning them on. White light is typically above 5500K, with a cool white tone like operating room lighting, providing excellent road illumination but prone to glare in rain or fog; yellow light is around 4300K, with a warm yellow hue like sunset glow, offering strong penetration in rain or snow. You can have a friend step on the brake while you squat in front of the car to check the bulb color—the bulb's glass base usually indicates the color temperature value. For city driving, white light is recommended for a clear view at high speeds, while in mountainous or foggy areas, yellow light is safer. Last time I drove in heavy rain, I regretted not having yellow lights installed.
A friend who works in auto repair taught me a trick to identify xenon headlight colors. When a white bulb lights up, it instantly emits a cool silvery-white glow, and the glass tube often has a slight blue tint. Yellow bulbs start with an orange-yellow halo, and the tube appears pale yellow. The difference is most obvious when you turn them on against a white wall during the day: white light casts a blue hue on the wall, while yellow light looks like it's dusted with gold powder. I've tried both types myself—white bulbs are brighter but more glaring, so remember to pair them with projectors when retrofitting. Yellow light is easier on the eyes, reducing fatigue during long nighttime drives, and performs especially well on frosty winter roads.
