i was wondering if anyone knew of different cheaper fog lights i could use. those honda ones seem i little bit expensive. :?:

From what I understand, the biggest cost with the fog light is the installation. Over and above the cost of the lights. Apparently, the wiring is from scratch. They did not pre wire the car. I am hoping someone will make a cover for those holes because they look so bare. The new jeep liberty has a molded plastic light bar. Agian, I am hoping that they come up with something similar for the element. If I have to have it wired from scratch, I would rather the lights were on the roof.

someone should make a filler to look like missles coming out of the fog light holes. That would get some of those slow drivers in front of you moving.

very cool idea

not bad hawaiian e but does anyone else have any other good ideas? :?:

How about some smilie face stickers in the holes?

I thought we were talking about fog lights and not just anything to fill the holes. I am looking too Banylo. If I find anything I'll let you know, if you could do the same that would be great. I really don't want to end up spending more than $150, but I'd rather keep it around $75 if possible. I think somewhere you should be able to find a generic kit that will fit the holes, I'm just not sure about the fog light switch. I thought someone said that wasa part of Honda's kit. Surely something can be done. I'm gonna go to a shop that deals with customizing cars and trucks and see what they'll know.

Anyone else know anything, please post it!! :lol:

I'm seriously thinking of going on a slightly different route. We get fog here about 2 or 3 times a year - hardly worth buying fog lamps. What we do get here on a very regular basis is darkness. For this reason I'm contemplating putting some PIAA 002x driving beams in the fog light holes. PIAA makes very high grade aftermarket lighting systems and is used by just about every pro rally and endurance racing team in the world. For their quality they are relatively inexpensive - about $100 for the lights i want. To make the installation look factory and/or professional, I'm going to have to design some brackets to fit in the existing holes. When i get all figured out, I'll let you know via this website

Mr boneheadZ, I'm afraid you have some bum dope. The wiring harness for the fog lights IS built in to the Element. The installation kit has two additional harnesses that you to plug in in 7 places and provides a relay and fuse. After the lights are installed, you install the first wiring harness that connects both lights together and this harness plugs into a receptacle behind the left light. Another harness is provided that plugs into 6 different places under the dash and plugs into the new fog lamp switch that goes into the dash. Makes a very clean installation. Just did mine last weekend and the whole job may have taken 3 hours at the most and I didn't rush it.

Thanx for the info. I figured that the 700.00 plus cost of installation was becasue it was not pre wired. If the wiring is there why so much? If the lights hit the aftermarket I look a putting them in. But I might prefer missles. :lol:

PS
Hows Albuquerque? I was in sante fe last september after going to moab. I love your state. Was hoping to get there again this year.

ION 777 please let me know if not everyone else how your lighting system turns out. I'm with you I don't really need fog lights but some nice beams would be cool. I have no clue where to start with all of this so if you could let me know specifics (brand, parts #'s, and installation) when you get them and how well it works that would be sweet!

I paid $242.50 for the fog light kit from HandA accessories and installed it myself. It is not difficult if you take your time and work carefully. The entire front end must be removed and the openings cut out. Using the Honda kit makes for a professional looking job just like it would be done in the factory. We rarely get fog here and I'll admit I did it just to fill those terrible looking big round flowerpots on the front end. Another option might be to try and find a grill or screen that might fit the opening and could be installed from the outside. Then it would look like brake cooling ducts! Thanks for the compliment on NM. It is indeed a beautiful state. Would like to visit your area some day.:wink:

THANKS GUYS FOR ALL THE IMPUT IT IS VERY HELPFULL! THX :D . MAYBE I'M MISTAKEN BUT, DON'T THEY SELL JUST THE FOG LIGHT SWITCH SEPERATE IF YOU WANTED JUST THAT. INCASE YOU WERE TO GO WITH DIFF LIGHTS.

Banylo- Sorry to throw a monkey wrench in your works, but you also need the relay and under dash wiring harness. Also, because of the way it is wired up, you can't just run the fog lights, you have to turn on the corning lights also. this another reason why i'm looking at the PIAAs.

Banylo- Sorry to throw a monkey wrench in your works, but you also need the relay and under dash wiring harness. Also, because of the way it is wired up, you can't just run the fog lights, you have to turn on the corning lights also. this another reason why i'm looking at the PIAAs.

i understand what your saying i just ment that i saw on one of those acc. websites just the switch for sale but i don't remember witch one it was. thx for the info though! 8)

After reading the comments from other members I wasn't sure as to whether I should install the $20.00 WalMarts or the Factory Fogs especially in view of the big price difference. I bought both and after comparing the two I went with the Honda lights. This is a quality kit. It comes with detailed instructions,complete wiring harness, relay, a switch that fits in the factory hole , wires ties etc. All of the wires are encased in a protective sheath and they are even marked as to where you should attach the ties and ties with clips to the predrilled holes in the body. The Element is prewired to some extent for these lights so you don't have to get the wires thru the firewall . You just plug the new harness into the connectors up at the front end and under the dash. The extra connectors are marked at the factory with blue tape so you can locate them. The lights themselves are not flimsy like the WM's and they can be aimed/adjusted and new bulbs inserted without having to take the whole front end off. I have intsalled fog & driving lights in many different cars and I was very impressed with the quality of this kit and the fact that Honda had pre-wired for these lights The only pain was working under the dash. Its a difficult area to get at even though you just have to plug connectors in.

[quote:5d645bc4c7="Edselhead"]After reading the comments from other members I wasn't sure as to whether I should install the $20.00 WalMarts or the Factory Fogs especially in view of the big price difference. I bought both and after comparing the two I went with the Honda lights. This is a quality kit. It comes with detailed instructions,complete wiring harness, relay, a switch that fits in the factory hole , wires ties etc. All of the wires are encased in a protective sheath and they are even marked as to where you should attach the ties and ties with clips to the predrilled holes in the body. The Element is prewired to some extent for these lights so you don't have to get the wires thru the firewall . You just plug the new harness into the connectors up at the front end and under the dash. The extra connectors are marked at the factory with blue tape so you can locate them. The lights themselves are not flimsy like the WM's and they can be aimed/adjusted and new bulbs inserted without having to take the whole front end off. I have intsalled fog & driving lights in many different cars and I was very impressed with the quality of this kit and the fact that Honda had pre-wired for these lights The only pain was working under the dash. Its a difficult area to get at even though you just have to plug connectors in.[/quote:5d645bc4c7]

$20 vs $240!!!!

Like you said WM light kit is flimsy, but it still does the job. WM's light after all is a universal light kit, the wires must reach varity of locations. It only seem flimsy because of exposed wires.

You want it to look like Honda's light kit, it won't take much, just buy some of those flexible plastic conduit and a roll 3M electrical tape. Just 15 min of your time and you may save yourself $200.

being the one who brouth the walmat light to this forum I thought I might comment... Yes the walmart lights are a little cheaper looking but the are infact cheaper I noticed thought that they do have a more brilliant light than the honda lights and that light can be noticed from a much further distance the the honda lights.. the walmart lights can also be easily hooked up to the factory foglight wiring if you wish to do so and you can always then contact majestic honda and get the factory switch for a farely good price.. as far as changing the bulbs you do not have to remove the entire front bumper to remove or even install these lights, under the bumper is a plastic skirt that fold out of the way buy removing only two screws!!! I'm still trying to figure out why every one is still removing the bumper and risking scratching the front of it when laying it down,, but every has their own way... at any rate if you prefer the honda lights great but I just tend to be a little more frugal and couldnt see spending $240.00 dollars for a simple pair of fog lights... I think honda needs to wake up and smell the coffie.. I havent yet seen any thing in the honda dealership as far as accessories that I would spend the kind of money they want for it. I mean if honda thinks they can sell a titanium gear shifter for $399.00 then maybe the need to check around with the after market companies to get a real idea of what auto accessories are going for! any way enough rambling bottom line buy what you want its your E

If you have the $240 to spend, I say go for it. Congrats and it's a good mod. It's a mod worth having. We use our driving lights all the time. I always change the factory bulbs to hyperwhites with higher wattage. It's a huge difference from stock bulbs.

I like that very slight hint of blue and more white. I do not like it when its got too much blue.

I removed the bumper cover to install the walmart driving lights in order to do a very clean install and to make sure that the wires are zip tied nicely and not rubbing against any metal. Wire chaffing is one of the most common causes of electrical fires/shorts in vehicles from after market electronic installs/upgrades.

If I coud spare the $240 for driving lights, I would have bought the Honda OEM and still replaced the H3 bulbs with the hyperwhite h3 bulbs.

The only honda part I used is the switch. It gave a clean, stock look to it. The Walmart Fogs does the job, specially after I had replaced the bulbs. It does stick out a little bit but doesn't look bad at all.

http://members.cox.net/moyen2k/element/lights_on.JPG

The fog light bracket mounted to the bumper cover.
http://members.cox.net/moyen2k/element/foglights1.JPG

http://members.cox.net/john.grady/pics/e-fogl-angle.jpg

The OEM fog light switch and custom wiring harness.
http://members.cox.net/john.grady/pics/16F.JPG

BTW, post some pics of your newly installed Fog lights with the lights off and on.

John

You should look for PIAA or Hella fog they are the beast...the price is more than Wal Mart but less than Honda and they will bright further than all the fog....nice for off road driving... :wink:

I am buying my E next week, im so excited. These msg. boards have been a great help with all of the suggestions for DIY accessories and Mods that i wouldve never thought of. I'm going to be saving quite a bit of money on Accessories so i thought i'd splurge and was going to give in and have the dealership put in the fog lights ahead of time.

i got off the phone w/ the dealer today and she told me that fog lights would be about $500+ w/ parts and install. I told her that i could order the lights for $250 and she said she knew that but she's seen the install and it takes about 5 hours to do.

So my question is, is this true. Is it a really hard install? What is my BEST choice if i Do It Myself and void the warranty on the install - go honda parts or go w/ cheapo walmarts? I've seen some pics of the install w/ the cutting of the circles and taking the bumper off. The wiring to the car and everything seemed to be the harder part. Feedback?

- Mike

Save yourself some money and do the walmart fogs. I did it last week after reading 1kewl's and sheniferous install post and they look great. The proburners are bright and could not be happier. Only thing I did different is I bought a lighted rocker switch from radio shack instead of using the one that came with the lamps. Drill hole though the cover where the oem switch should go and works perfect. Here is the pic of my switch. http://www.elementownersclub.com/uploads/files/fog%20switch.jpg

hi, check this thread out...

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4409

wal-mart pro-burners - $19.99
oem honda fog light switch - $12.99
saving $467.00 - Priceless

here they are installed:

http://www.e-shen.com/element/cloud04.jpg

its really not hard to do at all. the wiring is simple and so is cutting out the circles with a boxcutter. the only difficult part i had was wiring around the firewall in the small gap between the fender and body. i used a telescopic magnet (looks like a radio antenna when extended) and taped small metal screws to the wire that i was trying to feed through. this magnet is available at any hardware store for a few dollars. it made it very easy to get the wiring where you want it to go. also used the walmart fogs, which i heard were brighter than hondas.

i have the oem fog lights..
and dealer installed it
but i have no idea how much that is..as
i deal them with out of door price...
so..
and the out of door price include..all the accessories listed in my sign
............. :roll: :D

So who has what? I was in the process of ordering some factory Fog Lamps, but +$200 is quite extensive. I heard that other E owners were purchasing and installing aftermarket ones.

I was curious who had which aftermarket products installed as Foglamps? I was told that Hella's Optilux 2500 Angel Eyes were a good bet, and @ $60 you can't beat that!

Can these or other fog lamps fit with a Cold Aire Intake? Do these fit well or could you definitely tell they are aftermarket?

I can't answer your install questions, but Hella makes excellent products. On most cars I'd skip buying the factory/dealer option of fog/driving lights and get Hellas. They are generally brighter and while on some cars they may not fit in the OEM location, there are other places to put them. On the Element I wouldn't spring for the factory lights either, if they were standard in the EX package I wouldn't get rid of them though.

[quote:18a013e2f5=" "]So who has what? I was in the process of ordering some factory Fog Lamps, but +$200 is quite extensive. I heard that other E owners were purchasing and installing aftermarket ones.

I was curious who had which aftermarket products installed as Foglamps? I was told that Hella's Optilux 2500 Angel Eyes were a good bet, and @ $60 you can't beat that!

Can these or other fog lamps fit with a Cold Aire Intake? Do these fit well or could you definitely tell they are aftermarket?[/quote:18a013e2f5]

Yes, they will fit with a CAI because they don't have that bulky box behind the lamps like the factory fogs do.

:lol:
just about to buy my E and want 2 know...should i have dealer put in foglights or get them after. i'm driving from CA 2 NY this spring and it's foggy in NY and CT
thanx 4 any 411

The "fog lights" are actually driving lights...won't do a whole lot of good in the fog.

Bought my set from Wal-Mart for $20. Haven't installed yet. "Pro-Burners QH75IT." Others have installed these with success.

"How much are fog lights"? Well, how much do you want to pay? (At which, I might say, as little as possible, and if I could get them for free, that would be quite nice!)

I'd stay away from dealer bought/installed foglights and buy your own at WalMart, or even a car accessories store like PepBoys, Kragen, etc. Know anyone who'll put them in for ya? Or can you do that yourself?

Ger

$30 Fog Lights ~ OR ~ $250 Fog Lights

What is the difference (aside from price)?

How come there are $30 Fog Light Kits available and $250 Fog Light Kits available? What is the difference? Are the $30 really bad or something? Is it just because they aren't genuine Honda parts? Do they look bad, not a good mount? What? I am confused...

Please advise. :cry:

>What is the difference (aside from price)?

Having just installed the $250 set - a fair amount of trial and error, making stuff fit, and hacking together wiring, not to mention the questionable quality of the $30 pair.

High-quality auxiliary lights aren't cheap, even when they're not the official Honda lights. Major brands like CIBIE, PIAA or Hella can cost $200 or more for the pair, and that's without the custom vehicle fitments.

Hella sells a "dime store" grade of driving/fog lights through the car parts chains, and the difference between those and their regular line is striking. The cheap lights will start looking bad in 2-3 years, while high-quality light assemblies will last the life of the vehicle.

Frankly, I'm pretty impressed with the factory fogs. While I don't consider Raybrig (Honda's source) a major manufacturer in this field, they are every bit as robust and complete as the PIAAs and CIBIEs I've used previously. My only reservation is Honda's (so far) refusal to stock replacement parts, like the vulnerable lenses. That's why they're getting Xpel covers put on this weekend.

If you have the time and skills, and don't mind having to replace the cheap pair every few years (warning - you will never find the same lights twice), the $30 set can save you big money. It would be 24 years of replacing to catch up with the cost of the factory set. If you decide to do it yourself, be sure to download the factory foglight instructions here (http://www.handaaccessories.com/element/elementfogs.pdf). The instructions have hints on where to find the all-important foglight wire between the front of the car and under the dash - be thinking "blue tape".

I think Mike will affirm that back when he and I were installing CIBIE's (not only auxiliary lights; but entire headlight replacements as well) American lighting standards were literally still in the dark ages. Today's headlights are easily 100 times more effective than what we were stuck with back in the 60's and 70's growing up with cars. To me, that means that I feel OK going with cheaper auxiliary lights now than I would have years ago. Plus, I don't live out in the country anymore, so they're just to "enhance" the headlights. If anything, I'm amazed at how many people these days think the factory headlights are so "dim" compared to the after-market bulbs that are out there now. They're apparently not old enough to remember really bad lighting!

Again, as I think Mike was saying, you don't really need to feel too guilty about skimping on the fog lights, but make sure you're actually getting "fog" lights. Some of the cheaper versions are actually "driving" lights, and will be obnoxious to on-coming drivers. What's more important about the Honda kit, is that it includes all the correct plug-in components, and in spite of the alleged installation complexity, if you don't know what you're doing without the kit, it's a walk in the park compared to having someone else explain how to do it without the Honda plug-ins.

>They're apparently not old enough to remember really bad lighting!

What? You mean like the 6V system on my '63 Beetle? :lol:

Yeah, my first CIBIE job was on my own '67 Beetle, by which time VW had at least ditched the "aerodynamic headlight covers"! I wasn't technically "legal driving age" when I was sneaking off with my mom's '63 Beetle, so I can't say I recall any night vision issues. If anything, I didn't WANT to be seen on those occasions. :wink:

By the way, I hope the original poster gets back to us about what choice is eventually made. We've illustrated experiences, but not really made a recommendation, one way or the other. :roll:

I just wanted to be able to see more clearly at night - would the Xenon headlights do the trick or should I not bother with them?

Silverstar 9003STs. Can be purchased on ebay for $20 or so a pair. I replaced the stock headlight bulb with these. BIG JUMP in sight distance and visibility.

Tom

something better? Im considering getting the fog light kit and would immediately like to replace the bulbs with xtreme whites to match the silverstars. Has anyone done this? What color are the factory fog light bulbs - yellowish or white beam? Thanks!

>...factory... yellowish or white beam?

White.

I'm actually a little surprised by how much illumination they add, which then makes me wonder how bright they appear to oncoming drivers, which then makes me think it might be a bad idea to "increase" their intensity. I ought to have my wife drive it with me in our other car to get an idea how it is.

So, Silverstar 9003STs are better than Xenon?

[quote:a6a1ec667e=" "]>What is the difference (aside from price)?

Having just installed the $250 set - a fair amount of trial and error, making stuff fit, and hacking together wiring, not to mention the questionable quality of the $30 pair.

High-quality auxiliary lights aren't cheap, even when they're not the official Honda lights. Major brands like CIBIE, PIAA or Hella can cost $200 or more for the pair, and that's without the custom vehicle fitments.

Hella sells a "dime store" grade of driving/fog lights through the car parts chains, and the difference between those and their regular line is striking. The cheap lights will start looking bad in 2-3 years, while high-quality light assemblies will last the life of the vehicle.

Frankly, I'm pretty impressed with the factory fogs. While I don't consider Raybrig (Honda's source) a major manufacturer in this field, they are every bit as robust and complete as the PIAAs and CIBIEs I've used previously. My only reservation is Honda's (so far) refusal to stock replacement parts, like the vulnerable lenses. That's why they're getting Xpel covers put on this weekend.

If you have the time and skills, and don't mind having to replace the cheap pair every few years (warning - you will never find the same lights twice), the $30 set can save you big money. It would be 24 years of replacing to catch up with the cost of the factory set. If you decide to do it yourself, be sure to download the factory foglight instructions here (http://www.handaaccessories.com/element/elementfogs.pdf). The instructions have hints on where to find the all-important foglight wire between the front of the car and under the dash - be thinking "blue tape".[/quote:a6a1ec667e]

If you're talking about Hella's Optilux 2500 then yes, they are "cheaper" than their more expensive models, but for only $60, they're still worlds better than any $30 lamp kit. The $60 Hella's are made from glass and metal, while the $30 lamps are all plastic.

Hey everyone can anybody tell me how they like their fog lights if they have them!! And if they work good ok thx alot! Keep ROCKIN!!! :D

I have the stock Honda fog lights and they're ok, just.
If I had to pay full price for them (my dealer threw them in for free) I would get a set of Piaa lights instead.

I have stock lights I installed myself and like them.
I only use them in certain situations, which is not often, such as country roads and off road heading to a particular campsite we frequent.
i have also used them in foggy (!) conditions and they perform well.

i bought the $20 wal-mart pro-burners and installed them myself (i previously had ZERO experience with this sort of thing whatsoever)

i wired it to the factory switch (with help from a post here on the EOC) and a relay from radio shack (i found tutorials on the internet how relays work... remembe,r i had zero experience!).

The whole project cost me $40, not counting the $50 i spent to buy a dremel (the fog light project gave me an excuse to finally buy one!).

:roll:
Ok my new SOP 'E' needs fog lights! Where is the best place to buy them
and I think I read that they shine regular light and blue light????
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Have a Honda Mechanic that lives in my apartment complex - said he would
charge me around $50.00 for installing.

Help - guide me to best source for buying the fog lights.

Thanks, in advance, ya'll.

if so, one of the online places.

H&A and hondaacurawold both have good prices and good service.

$50 is a great price for the installation.

$50 for install? There's going to be a convoy of Es heading to your apartment complex. I've heard the OEM lights are high quality, so I would step up and get the Honda part, especially since the install is so cheap. What kind of beer does your mechanic friend like?:D

:roll:
Ok my new SOP 'E' needs fog lights! Where is the best place to buy them
and I think I read that they shine regular light and blue light????
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Have a Honda Mechanic that lives in my apartment complex - said he would
charge me around $50.00 for installing.

Help - guide me to best source for buying the fog lights.

Thanks, in advance, ya'll.

Here is my install of oem fogs in my E

http://www.nyelement.com/gallery/view_album.php?set_albumName=FOGLIGHTS

last pages have pix
gives off a bright white light

if you need any help let me know
save the 50 and install yourself
its super easy

You and I, and a bunch of others tackle projects like this because we actually enjoy doing it ourselves! But there's lots of people pretty seriously unqualified to be attempting it, or, who can easily afford the $50 mentioned here, to have it done (right) for them. I say, let them pay someone $50 to have it done, and be happy they didn't actually get screwed (at that price).

The worst potential pitfall a do-it-yourselfer can be confronted with is ending up short one crimp connector (or some other "minor" thingie) and if the Element is the only car they own -- the embarrassing PITA driving to the parts store with the whole front end missing from the car! :wink: To say nothing of the wires hanging out all over the place.

I love your enthusiasm, but after last night's little exchange of "attitudes", let's you and me agree tonight, that you and I aren't always "right" about what's best for "everyone else". Deal? :o

The worst potential pitfall a do-it-yourselfer can be confronted with is ending up short one crimp connector (or some other "minor" thingie) and if the Element is the only car they own -- the embarrassing PITA driving to the parts store with the whole front end missing from the car! :wink: To say nothing of the wires hanging out all over the place.

I love your enthusiasm, but after last night's little exchange of "attitudes", let's you and me agree tonight, that you and I aren't always "right" about what's best for "everyone else". Deal? :o

Ok truce
BUT the beauty of OEM parts is that no crimping is required
if u can plug in a wall socket u can plug in a harness

I may incur the wrath of Colin for this but here goes...

I am looking for aftermarket fogs for the E and need to know what size (diameter) of lenses I should be looking for.

For the record, I did do a search but didn't find what I was looking for :)

First off, thanks for that great install slideshow! Just wondering if anyone has found someway to protect the fogs from being shattered by flying rocks, etc. XPEL's?? or some other kind of guard?

First off, thanks for that great install slideshow! Just wondering if anyone has found someway to protect the fogs from being shattered by flying rocks, etc. XPEL's?? or some other kind of guard?
Lots of discussion on this if you do a search -"Xpel" "Invisigard"

Just in the market for some fog lights anyone have any good suggestions to which one I should get. Thanks

now i just joked about norcal weather elsewhere, but lately it has been VERY foggy here. i bought the stock ones and have been very happy with them.

i thought i saw another string here somewhere about non-Honda brand fogs. some of the senior members may be able to clue you in more than i. again, i'm happy with mine.

I live in wester ontario canada. right on lake huron. lots of fog and snow. the oem foggers have been great for both. if you get the dealer to show you what your getting for the money ie harnesses, relays, switch plus the quality of the lights it will help u decide.

Wal Mart Pro Burners are the budget solution. Go to the "How To" section of the FAQ thread for installation info.

I installed the original Honda, and I'm very very happy I did. If i had to do it again I would install the Honda ones again.

Hi all,
I SO excited that I found this site. I just bought an '05 E and I love it. It's great to see others that love these boxes. I went from an Aztek...I like this E MUCH BETTER...seeing that I own 5 dogs, inwhich one is my Police Dog.
My question is: Our EX model didn;t come w/ fog lights. Are they already wired? Do I just buy any fog light from, say a auto shop, pop the plastic cap off and hook them up? There is no switch inside for them, so would need to install that as well.
Brandi

While you can use lights from various sources, these Honda lights instructions give you an idea of the work that is involved.

http://www.collegehillshonda.com/instructions/03element/foglights.pdf

Welcome, Brandi!

You'll find this topic is widely discussed here at EOC. You can type a search for nearly anything you would like to upgrade on your "E" by clicking the link above in the blue header. If you type in "fog lights" you'll find TONS of posts and pictures, and all of your questions above will be answered in great detail.

We're all glad you chose the Element over the Aztek and not vice versa...you are DEFINATELY going to love this vehicle, especially with those doggies! :)

Good luck, and feel free to post pictures of your upgrade after it is done!

LEGO

the factory fogs are a little pricy but the installation is a snap.


-tom :)

the factory fogs are a little pricy but the installation is a snap.
-tom :)
Well, maybe not a snap...there are thirteen pages of instructions, plus you do have to pull off the front end and take a knife to it. It takes some expertise, but it is do-able. If you opt for cheaper non-Honda foglights you'll also have to fabricate your own brackets.

Well, maybe not a snap...there are thirteen pages of instructions, plus you do have to pull off the front end and take a knife to it. It takes some expertise, but it is do-able. If you opt for cheaper non-Honda foglights you'll also have to fabricate your own brackets.

factory fogs take a lot less fabrication to do than any after market will.


-tom

Hey Brandi,

I miss my dogs. Spot, a Border Collie Mix and Chip, a Mamstaff (Mastiff & Amstaff - Resembles a HUGE pitbull 150lbs).

Had to put Spot to sleep after 17yrs. Chip was 8yrs old. He had DM and I had a custom wheelchair built for him to get around in. In the end he weighed less than 40lbs and passed on from natural causes.

Glad to see a fellow dog lover. I didn't have the heart to get more dogs after mine passed away.

Even though the stock fogs don't require making a bracket (you'll see how easy this is to do) you'll still have to remove and cutout the holes in the bumpers for the fogs. So you might as well save some money and go with aftermarket fogs.

I used Pilot Fogs with 7-Color Halos a bit more difficult to wire but well worth the effort since I have the additional colors.

So for you it all boils down to what you require, how handy you are, and what you wish to spend.

Thx, Phil
ps Post some pix of your doggies.

Hey Brandi, I miss my dogs. Spot, a Border Collie Mix and Chip, a Mamstaff (Mastiff & Amstaff - Resembles a HUGE pitbull 150lbs). Had to put Spot to sleep after 17yrs. Chip was 8yrs old. He had DM and I had a custom wheelchair built for him to get around in. In the end he weighed less than 40lbs and passed on from natural causes. Glad to see a fellow dog lover. I didn't have the heart to get more dogs after mine passed away....
WHAT!!?? Is this the same guy who posted: ...If too many witnesses be sure to carry convenient store of fist-sized rocks to chuck at 'em and their vehicle when opportunity presents itself. Hopefully, they'll crash. LOL

What's going on here?

uhhh... so, how bout them fog lights? :)

WHAT!!?? Is this the same guy who posted: ...If too many witnesses be sure to carry convenient store of fist-sized rocks to chuck at 'em and their vehicle when opportunity presents itself. Hopefully, they'll crash. LOL

What's going on here?

Hey Bald Eagle,

Yes, that's ME! "Because I've got PERSONALITY... (as in the song, LOL)"

Don't think you took that post too SERIOUSLY, did you?

I was being facetious. OTH - "Cruel to be kind... (what's this song?)" LOL

Thx, Phil

I am waiting on my fog lights and hoping to install this weekend. I have no electrical or wiring skills so I am intimidated by the cheaper foglights which are more involved. I would have loved to save money by going cheaper but I know it would have been a frustrating way to go for me.

If you decide to go with oem foglights make sure you buy them online and not from your dealer (much cheaper).

Thats cool. while you wait you can go over the installlation instructions here.
http://handa-accessories.com/element/elementfogs.pdf

-tom

Hmm... no wonder so many people wonder if the E can be hosed out!!

Edit: never mind! :)

Hmm... no wonder so many people wonder if the E can be hosed out!!

was this supposed to be directed to the interior cleaning thread or sumthing? i' lost. :)


-tom

Oops! Too many windows open at one time, I lost track!

I guess I win the "dumb-ass of the year" award! :grin:

Oops! Too many windows open at one time, I lost track!

I guess I win the "dumb-ass of the year" award! :grin:

no prob. i thought i was missing somthing, i kept going back through the thread. :grin:

-tom

I am looking at getting the optional Honda Fog Lights when I get my E. How good are they? Are they bright? Do they help illuminate the road? Or are they just for show without any real effect?

I drive alot on country and dirt roads and have always liked a vehicle that had them, but if these do not add much i might save the $400.

Thanks!

I am looking at getting the optional Honda Fog Lights when I get my E. How good are they? Are they bright? Do they help illuminate the road? Or are they just for show without any real effect?

I drive alot on country and dirt roads and have always liked a vehicle that had them, but if these do not add much i might save the $400.

Thanks!

yes they help out a lot. but where the hell are you paying $400 for them?

they are $250 at HandA http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementext.html

They work very well and I believe they are worth it. I wanted a little more light so i did this. http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15442

Sadly the OEM will not stay on when the high beams are on. DO a search here. They have a very nice tutorial on how to do it yourself with the oem. With pics good luck :)

$400 is what a cheap local dealer wants. Some go as high as $600. I am not interested in the "do it yourself" thing. If a dealer will do it for a fair markup, I'd pay.

Heck I do not even change the oil in a car. Sure I know how. Sure my old man used to make me do it all the time. Paying somebody else to do it is a perk of a graduate degree ;-)

I've had my installed since day one and I'm glad I did. They look great and really improve visibility for me at night.

me too. and i paid $400 to have them installed. too much work to DIY for me.

and i *love* them. they throw really nice light close in and to the sides. this is great around town to see pedestrians and bicyclists. and it is great on backroads/highways to see deer on the side of the road.

just do it.

(also, you can improve the stock headlamps by replacing the bulbs, i put in OSRAM silverstars. and also aiming them just a quarter turn higher helps out a lot)

$400 is what a cheap local dealer wants. Some go as high as $600. I am not interested in the "do it yourself" thing. If a dealer will do it for a fair markup, I'd pay.

Heck I do not even change the oil in a car. Sure I know how. Sure my old man used to make me do it all the time. Paying somebody else to do it is a perk of a graduate degree ;-)

i have a masters in computer science and graphics arts. and sure i can afford to pay someone elso to change my oil. but why would i pay someone for something that takes me 20min on a saturday morning.

plus, i know that I actually change the filter and tighten the drain plug with a new washer everytime.

if you are such a ballah why are you only driving and E?


-tom

I knew I'd want the fog lamps as those two orange sized indentations under the grill look so annoying. I needed the roof rack too. The parts are rather expensive but thats what dealers charge for them. Its the same no matter what new vehicle you buy. If these items are not on the vehicle from the factory or standard equipment then you will pay extra for it as an after market accessory. Dealers make some extra cash on this. It's the basic nature of the game.

Do it yourself or have the dealer do it. Either way you get what you pay for. Buy the way... if the Honda dealer installs it then it becomes part of the 3yr/36,000 mile factory warranty. That was a no brainer for me.

My Honda dealer had to order the fog lights and roof rack for my new E.
I am getting them installed saturday. I know once they are installed I will feel a whole lot better as these items look so frikkin cool and are functionally important to me. WTF? It's only money and this is my first Honda.

i understand what your saying i just ment that i saw on one of those acc. websites just the switch for sale but i don't remember witch one it was. thx for the info though! 8)

http://www.handa-accessories.com/ should have the switch you're after. I remember seeing it there, but now I can't find it. Give them a call.

http://www.handa-accessories.com/ should have the switch you're after. I remember seeing it there, but now I can't find it. Give them a call.
Glad to see you're trying to help a fellow member out, but since BANYLO's post is over 2 years old I think he may have found the solution. :)

There's always "mock" fogs. Looks pretty good, too!

Check this thread.....http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9869

I'm with you, Hawaiian E!!

I almost bought these through my dealer. We get some heavy fog and fog light s help a lot. Plus they look better than those holes up front. But I was on H and A reading up on them and the OEM's are just plain lights. Fog lights are supposed to be amber not white. White lights make the fog worse. If I can scrape together some cash I'm going to get some PIAA's. Their kit runs for around $200. The install might be a bitch too, which is why I was considering getting them installed at the dealer. BTW I'm looking at the PIAA 510 series dichroinic. Anybody have these? Anybody install aftermarket fogs?

It's not the color of the light that makes it a fog light. It's how the light is diffused. Basically if you can see the bulb it's a driving light.

No way would I pay that much for the OEM lights. Just go get some from a auto parts store, pull the front end and install. FYI: pay atention to how you are mounting the lights and adjust them properly.

It's not the color of the light that makes it a fog light. It's how the light is diffused. Basically if you can see the bulb it's a driving light.

No way would I pay that much for the OEM lights. Just go get some from a auto parts store, pull the front end and install. FYI: pay atention to how you are mounting the lights and adjust them properly.


What do you mean about paying attention to how you mount them? Do they need to be aimed more towards the road? Would you need to cut the holes at more of an angle so they will mount, aimed to the road?

I'm interested in getting fog lights and I'm doing as much research as I can on what to get and how to properly install them.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Take Care,

Jess

Welcome!

Several of us on this board have PIAAs. This is the second vehicle I have had them on and I find them very effective.

There are several threads on the issues surrounding the install- it is not that big a deal. Seek (search the board) and you will find!

I just bought a grill guard for my element, and now I need help with choosing a good set of fog/driving light. I do quiet a bit of off-road driving and I want the most powerful, brightest, sturdy, set of lamps out there.

Thanks,
Stewie

I just bought a grill guard for my element, and now I need help with choosing a good set of fog/driving light. I do quiet a bit of off-road driving and I want the most powerful, brightest, sturdy, set of lamps out there.

Thanks,
Stewie
OEM ones are good, but many people are swearing by the PIAA 510s

The set that I got from Honda are prtetty bright. You can always add brighter bulbs.

The H3 bulbs in the Honda fogs are 55W, same wattage as the stock 9003 low beam. Very bright.

I just bought a grill guard for my element, and now I need help with choosing a good set of fog/driving light. I do quiet a bit of off-road driving and I want the most powerful, brightest, sturdy, set of lamps out there.

Thanks,
Stewie
With mentioning the brushguard I'm assuming you're talking about a set of driving lights to mount on the guard itself. The stock fog holes takes care of the low placement for fogs but driving lights would be best in the position provided on the crossbar of the guard, between the headlights. I personally love the beefy styling of the Warn lights like Gadjet has here:
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15151
Just about any universal lamps could be mounted there so look around the sites for KC, PIAA, Warn, Hella etc. Some models have dual fog/driving abilities.

Wow, thank everybody, great suggestions. I have the fog lights that came with the car, and they are great. I was not aware that you could change the bulb, very cool. However, Empire has the right idea, I’m looking for some beefy, beefiest (brightest) =)lol, lights I can put on the crossbar.

LOL, wow, the lights in the link are great. How bright are they?

This is the guard I got...
http://www.suvxccessory.com/xccessory/axts-zgsh-803-x.html

The PIAA 510's are outstanding !! Had em on my Isuzu trooper. More light than I needed, but still nice to have.

If you have Honda fog lights, here are the directions for installing replacement bulbs:

http://www.handa-accessories.com/element/elementfogs.pdf

They are near the end of the directions.

Thanks, I just changed my headlight, and I was wondering how one would go about doing the fog lights :)

I'm trying to get as much illumination as possible, so I want to hear any suggestions people might have with their own MODs.

Does anyone know the size of the housing for the fog lights? What's the largest sized fog light that can fit it...anyone know?

I went with the factory fogs but replaced the bulbs with PIAA super white (headlights too). Very noticable difference from stock bulbs!

Also, the factory fog light kit includes an integrated OEM switch, which also provides the indicator light in the gauge cluster telling you when the fog lights are on/off.

An aftermarket fog light installation will require an ugly auto parts store toggle switch, which will require you to cut a hole somewhere in your interior/dash to mount it. Just something else to consider.

Also, the factory fog light kit includes an integrated OEM switch, which also provides the indicator light in the gauge cluster telling you when the fog lights are on/off.

An aftermarket fog light installation will require an ugly auto parts store toggle switch, which will require you to cut a hole somewhere in your interior/dash to mount it. Just something else to consider.

Actually, you can use an OE Factory switch with an aftermarket kit.

There is a thread detailing the procedure here (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19162&highlight=factory+switch+fog+light).

Just curious:confused: Didn't really care to do a lot of meddling with the wife's new SC. I have my project, the SC is the family A to B backbone, and honestly, just about fine for that off the floor.

However, I was thinking about fog lights, as her dad has the $$$, and will pay for them, from the "stealership":-D, if I want them.

What say you~??? SAFETY for the wife & kids is #1, but I don't want to waste the in-law's funds, if they don't kick serious butt.

Thanks~!!!:)

I vote get them, but not from the dealer. You can buy them from H and A for a $238 plus shipping; which is a lot less than the dealer. Install them yourself and save even more $$$. Follow the link below to see the info on them at H and A. Click on the installation instructions to see how to install them. Its not hard by no means, but takes a little time.

http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementext.html

Well, your location is a secret, but maybe you could tell us whether there is ever any fog there... :-)

Location: Georgia...

My $$$ IS not involved. My time IS, and I have none to spend on installing jack, when the $$$ is of no concern to the in-law...

I just want to know if they are worth the safety factor, or just window dressing.:confused:

One thing that I didn't know when I installed the fogs in my SC was that the ONLY time they are on is when your lowbeams are on.
You cannot turn them on by themselves, and they will turn off when the highbeams are on.

^ yea, that kinda sucks

I noticed that 3days after I bought it. At least its on when they need to be though.

I was able to get the dealer in Fort Wayne, IN to include the fog lights at the H and A price by showing them the H and A pricing. They wanted to deal in May. :)

One thing that I didn't know when I installed the fogs in my SC was that the ONLY time they are on is when your lowbeams are on.
You cannot turn them on by themselves, and they will turn off when the highbeams are on.

This is the way that fog lights should work.

Ulver, if you have fog in your area they are a good idea. I can't vouch for the OEMs but I have PIAA 510s that I use a lot in the winter and spring and they work very well both as an aid to my visibility and to make my vehicle more visible to others.

Go for the fog lights....I like the extra light & the front of the car looks alot better with them.

[QUOTE=Hondaonly;459911]Go for the fog lights....I like the extra light & the front of the car looks alot better with them.[/QUOT what he said.

That's a pretty good price. I got mine for $220 from Honda. I guess it's all who you know.

Got mine installed in the last couple days, not that hard to do.
It's help alot on the light output, even with my hid in low beam, the fog light coverd the closer place that the low beam can't cover. As for safty issue, it's help, since you can see better on the road. Plus, like other said, it's looks better too, you can't go wrong.:D

Yeah I say go with the fog lights...I live in Vegas and we don't get fog..but it does make my car more visible to others, plus they just look cool.

One thing that I didn't know when I installed the fogs in my SC was that the ONLY time they are on is when your lowbeams are on.
You cannot turn them on by themselves, and they will turn off when the highbeams are on.


You can opt do do the "switch mod" which will allow the fog lights to come on with the park lights and stay on with high/low beams until you turn them off via the fog light switch or the main headlight switch.

I have an '03 Accord so I don't know if the wire colors are the same but the concept is.

1. Remove the switch from the console
2. Using a multimeter, probe the wires at the back of the switch with the switch still plugged in. You are looking for +12v with the park lights on, and +12v with the headlights on.
3. Cut the wire with the +12v, headlights on, leaving about 3in before the switch
4. Splice the switch end to +12v with the park lights on. Tape the other end of the +12v headlight wire to prevent any shorts.

Thats it!

For further reference read this (http://www.driveaccord.net/forums/showthread.php?t=6873&highlight=ebay+fog+lights)

I am wanting to install fog lights. Was Looking on ebay and was wondering if anyone has used Blinklights? What do you recomend and why? The OEM seem expensive should I bite the bullet? The only real good thing I see with them is the plug and play harness. Thanks!!:D

h and a has them on for a pretty good price

If you want fog lights as a fashion accessory (sorry, I could think of no other term to describe that..don't mean that as a dig against anyone), you can shop around the forums here for a number of light combinations used on Elements. If you are looking for functional fog lights, my view is that the H and A Honda set up is the perfect plug and play solution.

I am with RD on this one. On my last E i went with a generic set of lights and they just didn't do it for me. I have a set of Honda lights sitting in my workshop waiting for a nice day to spend out in the driveway installing them.

I think the more challenging issue has mating up a third party wiring harness with the Honda system or trying to get the fogs to work when the headlights are on high beam. True?

I think the more challenging issue has mating up a third party wiring harness with the Honda system or trying to get the fogs to work when the headlights are on high beam. True?


Since with an aftermarket set you wont be using the Honda harness getting power and ground isn't too hard. I hooked up the trigger wire that goes to the relay to the power wire for the marker light.This way i had fog lights on high and low.

I think the more challenging issue has mating up a third party wiring harness with the Honda system or trying to get the fogs to work when the headlights are on high beam. True?

I think the wiring part was easy, the mounting brackets are the trickey part.

You can take power for the switch from the low beam wire to make aftermarket lights work like factory.

(Mine are from a key on accessory fuse....ligts will not work w/ the key off)

You could also wire them to work only w/ the high beam (like if you had driving or spot lights), or with the parking lights or whatever.


Will

If you are looking for functional fog lights, my view is that the H and A Honda set up is the perfect plug and play solution.

By "plug and play" you of course mean freaking hard as hell for anyone with NO car experience whatsoever. I've read the installation instructions for the H and A fog lights and there is no way I would tackle them myself. The roof rack and side steps, those I would try...but not the fog lights.

Nothing can compare to OEM

By "plug and play" you of course mean freaking hard as hell for anyone with NO car experience whatsoever. I've read the installation instructions for the H and A fog lights and there is no way I would tackle them myself. The roof rack and side steps, those I would try...but not the fog lights.

I know exactly how you feel. My first EOC event was a mod meet here in Norfolk VA. I installed the rear power outlet and was very intimidated with the thought of taking off panels etc. Fortunately DC Box and others who had done it before were there to talk me down off the ledge.

Best case would be if you could meet up with a fellow EOC member who had installed fog lights before. Another alternative is to talk with the car stereo installers at your local Best Buy or Circuit City. Often times they will "moonlight" in their off hours and could do the install for you. I wish I could be more helpful.

...Best case would be if you could meet up with a fellow EOC member who had installed fog lights before. Another alternative is to talk with the car stereo installers at your local Best Buy or Circuit City. Often times they will "moonlight" in their off hours and could do the install for you. I wish I could be more helpful.

I am definitely inept when it comes to things electric or electronic. I am not convinced about the car stereo installer option unless know the person. I had my fog lights (PIAA 510 model) installed by an auto electrician. The installation part was not the problem, it was wiring up the lights to the OEM switch that I was afraid to handle. The $75 or so that it cost me was well worth it.

One other point. If you do the grill guard mod first, that gets you familiar with taking off the front end. You might do that mod before attempting the fog light mod. I completely agree with PVR, however.

Many small steps, none of them difficult.

While my Element is in the shop getting crash repaired, I thought I might get some fog lamps.

I'm hoping the guys will install them or allow me to do something while the car is ripped apart anyway.

It will be WAY easier.

can anyone help by:

1) linking some good ones to purchase

2) linking instructions

offering advice or stories

etc etc

anything would help -- I KNOW this is a popular MOD and topic -- but find it hard to find things here and navigate sites sometimes.

any pointing and linking to threads or websites welcomed.

Any vendors are welcome to private email me, whatever it's called.

thanks

Yep, the OEM fogs are the best choice, even though they are a little bit more money. This is the only way you'll get a new integrated shaft coming off the steerig wheel column with the fog light switch on it, as well as the instrument cluster indicator whenever they are on.

Yep, the OEM fogs are the best choice, even though they are a little bit more money. This is the only way you'll get a new integrated shaft coming off the steering wheel column with the fog light switch on it, as well as the instrument cluster indicator whenever they are on.

I second that, having installed a set myself late last year. Easy to do (look at the DIY section) and it's REALLY nice to have the extra road coverage at night. I have mine on everyday. VERY glad I did it...... :rolleyes::D:D

Go with the factory lights. You can't beat them for fit and function. They were very easy to install. The most difficult part was removing the front of the car. I use them every night. They make a HUGE difference in how much light comes off the front of your vehicle.

Thanks for the info


now to get that trailer hitch ...

Original Equipment Manufacturer.

If you have the $240 to spend, I say go for it. Congrats and it's a good mod. It's a mod worth having. We use our driving lights all the time. I always change the factory bulbs to hyperwhites with higher wattage. It's a huge difference from stock bulbs.

I like that very slight hint of blue and more white. I do not like it when its got too much blue.

I removed the bumper cover to install the walmart driving lights in order to do a very clean install and to make sure that the wires are zip tied nicely and not rubbing against any metal. Wire chaffing is one of the most common causes of electrical fires/shorts in vehicles from after market electronic installs/upgrades.

If I coud spare the $240 for driving lights, I would have bought the Honda OEM and still replaced the H3 bulbs with the hyperwhite h3 bulbs.

The only honda part I used is the switch. It gave a clean, stock look to it. The Walmart Fogs does the job, specially after I had replaced the bulbs. It does stick out a little bit but doesn't look bad at all.

http://members.cox.net/moyen2k/element/lights_on.JPG

The fog light bracket mounted to the bumper cover.
http://members.cox.net/moyen2k/element/foglights1.JPG

http://members.cox.net/john.grady/pics/e-fogl-angle.jpg

The OEM fog light switch and custom wiring harness.
http://members.cox.net/john.grady/pics/16F.JPG

BTW, post some pics of your newly installed Fog lights with the lights off and on.

John


Could you please re-post the pics for this post. I am going to install my WM foggers this weekend and need to know how to connect Honda switch to WM lights.

I have Walmart fogs on "The Rube" and they work just fine. As a matter of fact they have two settings. One for looks and the other is much brighter and helps out on foggy nights. For the price they work just fine (for me).

Could you please re-post the pics for this post.
1kewlelement's been gone for a while, it seems, but you'll find there are other threads that should help.

the rube..do you have any pics? 20 bux is right within my budget!

the rube..do you have any pics? 20 bux is right within my budget!

If you go into the "image gallery" you should find some pics of my SOP. I also posted some a few days ago (as I'm trying to sell it). If you don't find them let me know and I will see if I can find some at home.

Be careful if you NEED fog lights that you don't buy driving lights. Driving lights are a high long beam, which is terrible in fox. Fog loghts are a low, wide beam.

You should look for PIAA or Hella fog they are the beast...the price is more than Wal Mart but less than Honda and they will bright further than all the fog....nice for off road driving... :wink:

Here's a thread back from the dead!

In case anyone's interested, the PIAA 510s have stood up well after almost 5 years of use. If you are considering fog lights light quality is important, of course, but so is the quality of the lenses and housings if you want them to function for a long time.

I put fog lamps for the E on my Christmas wish list. I've always leaned towards factory/oem accessories. But now I can't decide if I want oem fogs or aftermarket.

My thoughts -

oem = plug and play as opposed to fabricating/hiding wire and brackets etc., switch looks tidy, no-nonsense operation, will help at resale.

aftermarket = better lighting(?), use with any headlight combination (off, parking, low beams, high beams), if done right switch and lights can look close to oem, easier install(?), less $$$

How tough are oem vs aftermarket as far as impact resistance? How about lense replacement? I know oem lens replacements are pretty pricey but available.

Has anyone had either for lots of miles/years of trouble free operation?

Thanks much!

Hey Mikement, happy 50 posts. :)

If you really want to use them in fog, the OEM wiring is no hindrance to performance. And the bulbs are standard (55W) for the type.

Five years and 100K of happy use. Haven't had to replace a lens yet ::knock wood:: but I can tell you that bulb replacement is easy.

The OEMs are Raybrig and are of high quaility metal construction. The bulbs can also be replaced with the OEMs without removing the front conver.

Mike

I've had PIAA 510s for 5 years lots of gravel roads and winter (gravel on roads) use. I covered the lenses with 3M film. No broken lenses or burnt out bulbs.

Take a look at this...I have the stock lights as well but need a bit more for the winter here in SD...

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=55780

Ill bee doing this mod this weekend...but Im using Piaa 520's

I went ahead and ordered the Honda lights from H and A with the black switch. I actually had to go out and look at the future fog lamp button space next to the cruise control button because I couldn't remember the color. I was convinced it was gray - wrongo. Middle-aged brain fart :roll:

Thanks for the replies - they were very helpful!!