If you own a 2013–2018 Dodge Ram with OEM projector headlights and want to install an HID conversion kit, this guide is for you.
Understanding the Dodge Ram CANBUS System
First, let’s talk about why this install isn’t plug-and-play.
The Dodge Ram uses a CANBUS system that constantly monitors the truck’s forward lighting. It communicates with other vehicle modules and checks whether your headlights function properly. When something looks wrong, it triggers a bulb-out warning on the dash.
Because of that monitoring system, upgrading headlights on 2009+ Ram trucks can be tricky. However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Headlight Revolution worked through the compatibility challenges and developed a setup that functions correctly with the Ram’s CANBUS system. If your truck has reflector headlights, there’s a separate install guide for that configuration. Here, we’re focusing strictly on 2013+ projector-style housings.
Dodge Ram Wiring Changes by Year
Over the years, RAM changed its wiring configurations. As a result, installation varies slightly depending on model year.
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2013–2014 Ram: Uses a 9006 low beam bulb
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2015–2018 Ram: Uses a 9012 low beam bulb
Additionally, wiring updates in 2009, 2013, and 2015 made headlight upgrades more complex. Fortunately, once you identify your bulb type, the rest becomes straightforward.
Recommended HID Conversion Kit
For this install, we used the GTR Lighting Hylux CANBUS HID kit. This kit is specifically designed to work with sensitive factory electrical systems like the Ram’s.
You can choose between:
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35W Ballasts – Over 3x brighter than stock
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55W Ballasts – Over 5x brighter than stock
While the 55W option delivers maximum brightness, the 35W kit still provides a significant improvement and produces slightly less heat. Therefore, your choice depends on how much output you want and how your housing handles heat.
Other Upgrade Options
Of course, HID isn’t your only option. There are several LED and HID upgrades available for the Dodge Ram. The key is choosing a system that works properly with the factory electronics.
If you’re still deciding between technologies, you may want to review our breakdown of:
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HID vs LED conversion kits
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Lux vs lumens and real-world brightness
These guides will help you choose the best lighting setup for your truck.
Final Thoughts
Although the Dodge Ram CANBUS system makes upgrades more complicated, the right components solve the problem. Once installed correctly, an HID conversion kit dramatically improves visibility, beam intensity, and nighttime driving confidence.
To stay up to date on fog light bulb fitment, lighting upgrades, and installation guides, be sure to check back here regularly. You can also follow along on our Facebook page and say hello. And as always, the Better Automotive Lighting Blog is your source for clear, practical information in the automotive lighting world. Why not give this a read: Best Halo Rings for Headlights: CCFL vs Conventional Angel Eyes
Meet the people behind Better Automotive Lighting
John Tobias, Headlight Junkie and Industry Veteran
Before managing pricing and product categories for the DLG brands, John worked directly with customers in customer service and tech support, then spent several years in marketing creating content like this and the videos published online. Today he takes more than ten years of aftermarket automotive lighting experience to events all over the USA, meeting customers and talking to real people about what they care about. He is focused on understanding the market, the trends, the big players, and what matters to lighting enthusiasts. John has tested thousands of lights, works directly with lighting engineers to evaluate the technical performance behind every recommendation, and is one of the foremost experts on everything happening in the world of aftermarket automotive lighting. LinkedIn
