HID light conversion query

[Andy JB]

Decided to upgrade the chim headlights. Can anyone testify to the impact of the HID conversions offered by the usual suspects?

Thinking of this conversion combined with oe reflector rechrome/ replacement rather than newer style full light conversions.

Is there an significant difference in output in the real world, are these still legal in uk for new MOT rules? Any user comments appreciated

[gruffalo]

I think,LED is the better option now.

[BIG DUNC]

Not legal in the UK unless you have headlamp washers and either automatic beam adjustment or self levelling suspension.

Technically without those it is an MOT fail, although I know several people who have never had a problem at MOT time.

But, then, who knows what they are going to be strict on next?

[bobfather]

Got to wonder why you would opt for an outdated modification that has very poor beam pattern, dazzles oncoming traffic, light blue hue, risk of early failure due to Chinese cheap manufacturing and fails MOT. You say you are replacing/rechroming the reflectors. You should consider replacing the reflectors with projectors so that the beam pattern is corrected for the change in technology

[Penelope Stopit]

https://procarreviews.com/best-headlight-bulbs/ make a big difference

[Byker28i]

I've just got some Phillips 150% brighter bulbs in the Cerbera and don't have any issues. You only drive to be able to stop in what you see anyway

[Andy JB]

gruffalo said:

I think,LED is the better option now.

Does anyone have any links for LED bulbs, there seems to be a confusing array of options out there - do LED's work with the reflectors or independantly using a direct beam? The HID option seemed like an economical upgrade but these clearly have issues with beam spread patterns & legality.

What i don't want is full headlight replacement out there & associated costs with bodywork mods, as i plan to sell the car shortly, i was simply looking to improve current light output which uses upgraded H4 bulbs. My reflectors are dusty rather than corroded so perhaps this should be my immediate priority.

Any further LED recommendations or links welcome

[blitzracing]

https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...

These are worth a look as they claim to have the focus sorted.

https://www.philips.co.in/c-p/12953BWX2/x-treme-ul...

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Philips-X-tremeUltinon-...

Edited by blitzracing on Friday 8th March 09:10

[Wildfire]

Interesting, I've had HID's in the car for over a decade and do want to chance them. These do look good.

[dvs_dave]

I think you’re better off with LED’s now. Decent ones have good beam pattern control in older lamp designs, and you also don’t interfere with your radio signal, like many HID ballasts do.