2012 A6 C7 headlight and ballast

[Simon813]

Hi,

Im after some help if anyone has been in the same position.

We have a 2012 A6 avant S-Line with the Xenon headlights. The passenger side headlight stopped working so we took it to Halfords (yes, first mistake I know!) and they replaced the bulb but no joy. After that the headlight started to get condensation on the inside so I think they have damaged the seal or something similar.
Anyway, now taken it to the garage and they quoted £1300 for new headlight unit and ballast. Apparently ours is water damaged. The vast majority of the quote is for parts with only about £100 labour so I’m thinking about buying either used or non-OEM parts instead.

So the question is, has anyone on here found themselves in a similar position and bought a non-OEM Headlight unit and ballast? There are loads on EBay but don’t want to get caught out. I’m worried that if I buy second hand then the same could happen again.

Thanks in advance

Simon

P.s. I’ve lodged a complaint with Halfords!

[AI1601]

Not sure how far you’ll get with Halfords but good luck with that.

Personally I would only go for genuine OE and avoid any chinese OEM. But if you can find a Hella one that would be good.

Why not try breakers or used genuine headlights on eBay but I suspect people would be selling a pair not separately.

[Moz_BLY]

Used a company called Eurowagens for my rear light, they are genuine products

https://eurowagens.com/audi/a6/a6-c7-10-18/

try them on ebay also.

[Cliffwhite661]

due to the cold weather, it's quite normal for headlights to be misting up. There's a small vent on most cars allowing air to get in, as the weather cools on the outside the air inside stays warmer causing mist or condensation. I found this guide online which seems to be useful check it out: https://www.energizedcustoms.co.uk/blog/post/conde...

[Simon813]

Thanks all. I’ve had to fit a new headlight and control unit as both were water damaged. Halfords originally refused to pay but finally after some pushing they agreed to pay 50% of the bill (which was well into 4 figures). Just goes to show it is worth pushing when you know you are right!

Simon