Nissan 370Z G37 Headlights: A Comprehensive Guide to OEM Performance, Upgrades, and Maintenance​

For Nissan 370Z G37 owners, headlights are far more than a functional necessity—they’re a critical component of safety, performance, and personal style. Whether you’re navigating dark backroads, cruising highway miles, or showcasing your Z’s sporty aesthetic, understanding your G37’s headlight system, common issues, and upgrade options is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from factory specifications to aftermarket solutions, with a focus on practicality, safety, and compliance.

Understanding the Factory Headlight Setup on the Nissan 370Z G37

The Nissan 370Z G37, produced from 2008 to 2020, was offered with two primary headlight configurations depending on model year and trim. Early models (2008–2013) typically came standard with ​halogen headlights, while later iterations (2014–2020) saw optional or base-model upgrades to ​projector-beam xenon (HID) headlights​ in higher trims like the Touring or Nismo.

Halogen Headlights (2008–2013)

Stock halogen bulbs, often labeled as 9005 or 9006 (for low/high beams), produced around 1,000–1,200 lumens per bulb. While reliable, halogens have limitations: they take 2–3 minutes to reach full brightness, have a warmer yellowish tint (around 3,000K color temperature), and dim over time as the filament degrades. Their narrow beam pattern also struggles to illuminate road signs or obstacles far ahead, a common complaint among early G37 owners.

Xenon HID Headlights (2014–2020)

Later G37s with HID systems used D2S or D2R bulbs, emitting 2,800–3,200 lumens with a cooler white-blue tint (4,300K–6,000K). These bulbs reached full brightness instantly and offered better nighttime visibility, though some owners noted uneven light distribution or “black spots” due to factory lens design. The projector-style housings improved focus compared to halogens but still lagged behind modern LED or aftermarket HID setups.

Common Issues with Stock G37 Headlights

Even with their intended functionality, G37 headlights face wear and tear that affects performance. Here are the most frequent problems:

1. ​Dimming and Reduced Output: Halogen bulbs lose brightness over time as the tungsten filament evaporates. By 500–700 hours of use, many owners report a 20–30% drop in lumens, making night driving riskier.

2. ​Yellowing and Hazing: UV exposure degrades the polycarbonate headlight lens, causing oxidation. This “fogging” scatters light, reducing range by up to 50% and creating glare for oncoming drivers.

3. ​Inconsistent Beam Pattern: Factory HID systems, while better than halogens, often lack sharp cutoffs. This causes light to spill upward, blinding other drivers, or fail to reach distant objects.

4. ​Bulb Failure: Halogens burn out every 400–600 hours; HIDs last longer (2,000–3,000 hours) but are pricier to replace ($50–$100 per bulb vs. $15–$30 for halogens).

When and Why to Upgrade Your G37 Headlights

Upgrading isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a safety and performance investment. Here’s when to consider it:

• ​Safety Concerns: Nighttime crashes account for 49% of all traffic fatalities (NHTSA). Brighter, more focused headlights reduce this risk by improving visibility of obstacles, pedestrians, and road signs.

• ​Aesthetic Goals: Many G37 owners want to modernize their Z’s look. Aftermarket headlights with LED or HID bulbs, plus sharper lens designs, give the car a sleek, aggressive appearance.

• ​Longevity: Replacing aging halogens or HIDs with higher-quality bulbs or upgraded assemblies prevents frequent failures and maintenance headaches.

Aftermarket Headlight Upgrades: Bulbs, Assemblies, and Custom Options

When upgrading, you have three main paths: swapping bulbs, replacing the entire headlight assembly, or customizing with high-end components. Each has trade-offs in cost, complexity, and performance.

1. Upgrading Bulbs: LED vs. HID vs. High-Output Halogens

• ​LED Bulbs: Plugs-and-play options like Sylvania zXe or Diode Dynamics SS3 Pro are popular. They emit 3,000–5,000 lumens, run cooler (no heat buildup), and have a crisp white light (5,000K–6,500K). However, without a factory lens or aftermarket reflector, they often scatter light, creating glare. Pairing them with a lens upgrade (see below) fixes this. Cost: $80–$200 per pair.

• ​Xenon HID Kits: Brands like Morimoto or Philips offer plug-and-play HID systems with adjustable color temperatures (4,300K–6,500K). These produce 3,200–4,500 lumens and have instant-on brightness. Note: Some G37s require an HID ballast relay harness to avoid flickering. Cost: $150–$400 per kit.

• ​High-Output Halogens: Sylvania SilverStar Ultra or Philips RacingVision boost halogen output to ~1,700 lumens. They’re cheap ($30–$50 per bulb) but still dim over time and lack the longevity of LEDs/HIDs. Best for budget-conscious owners not ready to switch technologies.

​Pro Tip: If upgrading bulbs alone, invest in a headlight lens restoration kit (e.g., 3M Headlight Renewal System) to maximize light output.

2. Replacing the Entire Headlight Assembly

For a seamless, factory-like upgrade, swap the stock housings for aftermarket units. Brands like Morimoto, Seibon, or Vorsteiner offer LED or HID projectors with sharper cutoffs, wider patterns, and modern designs.

• ​OEM-Style Upgrades: Vorsteiner’s G37 LED headlights mimic the stock look but with brighter LEDs (4,000 lumens per bulb) and anti-fog coatings. They’re plug-and-play, requiring no wiring changes. Cost: $800–$1,200 per pair.

• ​Custom Projectors: Morimoto’s NB LED assemblies feature adjustable projectors, allowing you to fine-tune the beam pattern. They’re pricier ($1,500–$2,500) but deliver theater-quality lighting.

​Consideration: Aftermarket assemblies may require reprogramming your G37’s ECU if they use different bulb types (e.g., switching from halogen to HID). Consult a shop with Nissan diagnostic tools to avoid error codes.

3. Custom Modifications: Laser Headlights and Universal Fits

Enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge performance can opt for laser headlights (e.g., OSRAM LaserLight) or universal-fit LED projectors. Laser systems emit 10,000+ lumens with a blue-tinted beam, ideal for high-speed driving. Universal projectors (like those from Diode Dynamics) let you build a custom setup, but they demand wiring expertise and may require cutting the hood or fenders for proper fitment.

​Warning: Extreme modifications (e.g., adding unregulated lasers) can blind other drivers and violate state laws. Always prioritize safety and compliance.

Legal and Insurance Considerations for G37 Headlight Modifications

Before upgrading, check local regulations:

• ​Brightness: Most U.S. states limit headlight output to 3,000 lumens per bulb. Exceeding this can result in fines.

• ​Color Temperature: Bulbs over 6,000K (blue/purple tint) are illegal in 49 states. They scatter light, reduce visibility, and are more likely to be pulled over.

• ​Aiming: Misaligned headlights (too high or low) can blind others. After installation, have a mechanic adjust aim using a beam pattern tester.

Insurance-wise, aftermarket headlights are usually covered if damaged in an accident, but modifying them (e.g., adding illegal bulbs) may void coverage. Always inform your insurer of significant upgrades.

Maintaining Your G37 Headlights for Long-Term Performance

Even with upgrades, proper care extends headlight life and maintains brightness:

• ​Clean Regularly: Use a microfiber cloth and headlight cleaner (avoid abrasive chemicals) to remove bugs, dirt, and grime. For hazy lenses, apply a UV protectant (e.g., Meguiar’s Headlight Protectant) monthly.

• ​Inspect Bulbs and Wiring: Check for frayed wires, corroded sockets, or loose connections. Replace worn bulbs immediately—operating a headlight with one bulb out strains the other.

• ​Protect from Impact: Park away from trees or debris to avoid stone chips. For off-roading, consider headlight covers.

FAQs About G37 Headlights: What Owners Need to Know

​Q: Can I put LED bulbs in my 2008 G37’s halogen headlights?​​

A: Yes, but without a lens upgrade, they’ll scatter light. Pair LED bulbs with a headlight restoration kit or replace the housing for best results.

​Q: Will upgrading to HID void my warranty?​​

A: Only if the upgrade causes damage (e.g., electrical shorts). Most shops use plug-and-play kits that don’t interfere with factory systems.

​Q: Where can I find OEM G37 headlight assemblies?​​

A: Dealerships or sites like RockAuto sell new or remanufactured OEM units. For older models, eBay or specialist Z forums often have used parts.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Headlight Solution for Your G37

Your G37’s headlights are a blend of safety, performance, and style. Whether you’re fixing dim stock bulbs, upgrading to LEDs for better visibility, or installing custom projectors for a show-stopping look, prioritize quality, compliance, and long-term maintenance. By understanding your options and following best practices, you’ll ensure your Z’s headlights shine bright—both on the road and off.