Car Headlights: Three Major Types

There are three major types of 2006 Nissan Altima headlights. Each style has its pros and cons.

Halogen bulb:

When purchasing 2006 Nissan Altima headlights, the halogen bulb is the most common style. This headlight has a filament on a single bulb that provides both the dim and bright light setting on your car. This style bulb can be in a glass envelope that has iodine or bromine gas.

Pros - These bulbs are inexpensive and easy to replace.

Cons -These are not bright white lights and are on the lower end of the Kelvin scale (determines brightness). These bulbs burn hot and had have a service life of under one thousand hours.

LED bulbs:

Light emitting diode (LED) bulbs are another style of 2006 Nissan Altima headlights. Unlike the halogen bulbs, LED lights use electroluminescence to shine the light forward. This basically means that electrons are forced towards a positively charged hole in a semiconductor. This action then releases photons, which are particles of light that we see.

Pros - LED lights are can be put into smaller locations making it easier to change the style of headlights. LED 2006 Nissan Altima headlights are brighter than the halogen bulbs and shine at between 4,000 and 6,000 on the Kelvin scale. LED lights are also more energy efficient and can quickly be turned on or off, making the bulb last longer.

Cons - The initial cost of LED lights is more expensive. This is due to the cost of the bulb as well as the assembly around them that is designed to prevent overheating.

Xenon/HID

This style of 2006 Nissan Altima headlights is also known as high intensity discharger, or HID lights. This style of headlight is a combination of the halogen and LED. The lights are in a special structure that house Xenon and argon gas. These gases mix with vaporized metal and emit a bright light.

Pros - This is the brightest light on the Kelvin scale. It will transmit a white-blue light that will give a further range of light. This illuminates the road for the driver to see. The lights will also last over 10,000 hours as there is no filament to burn out.

Cons - Oncoming drivers may complain that you are blinding them. As well, because of the intense light, you may not be able to see outside the direct light. This makes it hard when changing lanes or parking.

When buying parts for your 2006 Nissan Altima come see us at PartsMax for all your aftermarket needs. For more information about choosing a headlight or any other part contact us.