The first thing you need to check is whether the HID kit will be compatible with your car or truck. You need to check the bulb type used for your vehicle's original headlights (high-beams, low-beams, high-and-low beams or fog lights). Some will check this for you.

(2) Ease of installation

You need to make sure that the xenon kit is truly plug-and-play. A lot of companies will claim their HID kits are plug-and-play but in reality they require a lot of modifications to the headlights and the wiring. Check the website carefully. If in doubt, ask the seller.

(3) Strong warranty

Check that the HID kit is covered by a strong warranty against defects. Most companies will have some type of warranty, typically 6 months to 2 years. The high quality HID kits are covered by a much longer warranty. For example, are covered by a 15-year warranty. Also make sure that ALL parts are covered, including the bulbs. These are the parts that most commonly go wrong.

In addition, check to see how to get warranty replacement. A lot of HID kit retailers are located in China, Hong Kong or Taiwan. They require you to ship your HID kit across the world and pay for shipping both ways. Try to find a company with offices in the USA to save on shipping and get a speedy replacement. Communication will also be a lot easier.

(4) Free shipping

A lot of companies offer attractive low prices, but beware: They often charge high shipping fees. Make sure that you retailer offers FREE or low shipping rates. Always take into account the total cost of the HID Kit.

(5) Good Pricing

Prices vary wildly on the internet anywhere from $30 to $1400 for an HID kit. Off course, you often get way you pay for. Cheap HID kits are just that: cheap HID kit. But do not overpay for an HID kit. A reasonable price would be between $100-$200, depending on the features of the complete xenon kit.

(6) Fast shipping

Lots of companies will ship their kits directly from the manufacturer in Asia. Expect to get you get in 6-8 weeks. Preferably, order from a retailer with offices and warehouses in America. Shipping will be much quicker and you won't have delays with customs.

(7) Customer service

Did you ever emailed a retailer and waited for ever for a response? Or received an email in broken english. Customer service is important. Make sure the retailer is professional, trustworthy and replies quickly to your inquiries. If you don't get an email reply within 24 hours, stay away.

(8) Digital Ballast, Slim Ballast

The HID lighting technology has evolved quickly over the past years. A lot of manufacturers are still producing very old technology with reliability troubles. Your best bet is to look for the most modern, up-to-date technology you can find. The state-of-the-art right now is the SLIM ballasts. The ballasts are much much smaller than the old clunky ballasts and offer solid state electronics for incredible reliability and durability. The also take much less space so they are easy to install. Even on small vehicles. Click the link to see pictures of .

(9) Reliable company

Unfortunately, there are a lot of "fly-by-night" companies on the internet. Make sure that you buy from a reputable company. Check their website, make sure the layout is professional, email them to see if their replies are professional. You will quickly get a feel for the company. Fly-by-nights might offer attractive pricing but will they ever ship the kit? Will they be there when you need warranty?

(10) 35W vs 55W

The final factor you need to check is whether you want 35W or 55W HID headlight. Off course 55W will produce more light but the HID kit will also be a bit more expensive and the bulbs will not last as long. Check with your retailer to see if the kit you want to purchase is appropriate for you.

I hope the information above will help you in your shopping for an HID kit or xenon lights for your vehicle.