Quote:
Originally Posted by lordviper
Hi guys,
i have an 03 x5 with halogens, and have bought whole new headlights with xenons, projectors, angel eyes pre fitted to them.
does anyone have a guide or any helpful info on how to install/replace a whole headlight unit on a 03 e53 as i want to try it myself before calling a mechanic.
thanks for any and all help  |
Have you got headlight washers and auto-levelling lights already fitted? If not bear in mind that you will fall foul of the Lighting Regulations for which you can be issued with a Vehicle Defect Rectification Scheme (VDRS) Notice or FPN and fine. If the lamps are not the ECE approved type you may also fail your MOT. It doesn't happen everywhere, but just bear in mind. Some parts of the UK are worse than others - no surprise there!!
I've seen some fairly lengthy discussions on a couple of Police Forums about enforcement of these aftermarket lights and what actions can be taken against drivers. HID lights are still 'technically' illegal in the UK, but their use is being permitted under a European Agreement providing the light units are ECE Approved, the bulbs burn at 4300K and headlight washers and auto-levelling systems are fitted to the car. I've seen plaenty around which quite obviously meet none of those regs and combine that with the reduction in Traffic Police and Police Vehicle Inspectors those numbers are growing. Some MoT stations are hot on it, others not. Same in some Counties where Chief Constables either want it enforced, or don't. You just can't tell. Plenty of places purport to sell 'approved' systems, but they're actually only for Off Road Use and if not otherwise stated come under Trading Standards. Talk about a minefield!!