This is probably a dumb question but how can you tell? The car in question is a 97 sc400. I dont think it came with them stock but when the lights cut on they are very clear and they start out dim and become brighter after a couple seconds. Only the regular beams look like this. The high beams and fogs look like regular halogens. I didnt know if silverstars or something like that did the same.

 

See if there are ballasts(I think that's what they are called) behind the headlight, square box thing.

I'm not too knowledgeable on HIDs

 

Ballasts... also a "warm up" or just look up the equipment on your car...

 

I can typically tell by the intensity of the light. Projectors are sometimes a good sign, but not always necessary. Like previously mentioned, a ballast box behind the lamp is a good indicator of HIDs.

 

If the lights are very pure white, or bluish, they're HIDs. Well, unless they have some fancy bulbs in them. So yeah, look for a high voltage ballast somewhere.

 

does it blind people? yes= HID no = hallogen

 

From your description, it sounds like the car does have HIDs. The "warm up" you describe is what HIDS do when you first turn them on. Do the Low Beams seem to be Whiter or Blue compared to the High Beams, if so, you have them. Also, HIDS "pop" on. They don't come on slowly. The pop on, then brighten up.

 

I dont know if they pop on cause they are automatic so I dont really notice. I just kinda notice them come on and then get brighter for the next couple seconds. They definetly seem to warm up and yes they are way clearer then the high beams or fogs. Im gonna look for a ballast tomorrow.

 

This is what the low beams look like compared to the fogs.

 

99.99% sure that you have HID's , but the fogs are not.