Hey, thanks bramfrank
1st, that sucks to learn after the fact, but thanks and do you know why?
(curious to know exactly what I wasted my money on lol)
2nd, didn't seem to be a problem for me in Alberta & BC on last few vehicles I owned.
One was Ford factory(Towncar) and replaced both HID low beams ($70CAD ea) once.
High Beam/DRL bulbs never had to be replaced.
The others were working great with the HID inserts in both factory and aftermarket housings on both GM & Fords.
Your suggestion, yes I want to do it right or not at all with the Journey.
That's why everything is still factory for now.
It's literally the first brand new vehicle I've ever owned in my whole life.
I'll check out the HIR stuff, never heard of it, I lead a sheltered life I guess.
*EDIT*
I followed the link and I also had Silverstar bulbs on an older Towncar years ago and they were amazing!
Other vehicles on highway would flash lights at me. When they flashed 3 or more times, I'd give them the a flash of high beams to settle them down
I'm curious and intrigued about trimming the tabs on connectors or bulbs.
$70USD with shipping etc usually means $300CAD by the time you get it in your hands, but I may be able to fix that.
Thanks again