headlight option
 

I purchased a set DS2s thinking I have a Xenon headlights, but when removing the back cover I noticed the bulb was completely different. Why I thought Xenon was standard is beyond me but today I learn it wasn't the case. Do you guys know which headlight option I have? I have attached a link to some photos of the back covers. I tried searching the forums but couldn't find an exam descriptions of what I saw in the back of my headlight assembly. I also, have an "A" symbol to the left of the off position of my headlight switch, if that means anything.

Thanks

pictures

That means "Auto" headlights so they come on automatically when the light sensor behind your rear vision mirror activates them.

Try this for non Xenon lights.

NOTE: This for the LCI updated E53 from July 2003

This is real OEM complete with all the part numbers

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=63_0834

I'd strongly suggest getting xenon headlights!

I'm rebuilding mine for pre lci, replacing projectors, adding halos, polishing the lens etc

https://i.ibb.co/Xrc8SC6M/20250623-193655.jpg

Thanks for the info. So I just have a regular halogen setup?

Sounds and looks like that is the case...

The Xenon (or HID) lamp startup is very obvious - the Xenon lamp colour changes as the lamp heats up to operating temp. Halogens do this too but usually so quickly it's not noticeable.

Not an E53 but...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh48V-uw1Gc

I have Xenons (my first vehicle with them, actually) and they are nice, but IMO the new halogen capsules are also pretty good. To me it's not a huge difference. Try Philips Nightguide Platinum for example.

I also have 2 e53 X5's, one with the cornering Xenons and the other standard Halogen. I agree with Masospaghetti that the Halogens are decent enough, not as good but I wouldn't go to the trouble and expense of swapping them over.

One headlight is done. Added halos as well.
Night and day difference with bixenon headlights, and as a bonus I get quad high beams
https://i.ibb.co/6Jc46NGz/20250624-231323.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/0VZZBXm0/20250624-230851.jpg

Nothing like a "six gun salute" when someone doesn't dip their lights for you... (quad headlights plus fogs). :rofl:

Haha this is peanuts, big plans ahead. Gonna install light bars and all as in built by Mike from ecs tuning.
Can't recommend enough to everyone to upgrade xenon projectors...but above all, don't put led lights into your high beam halogen housing!

Hypothetically, aircraft landing lights will let you see through someone's skull....[emoji41]

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Update.

Replacing all six bulbs was a success. However, I noticed the connectors for one of the angel light bulbs was about 1/3 cracked off with electrical tape around it and the wires connected to it. It looks like the previous owners didn't have the patience to be gentle with it.

Is this going to cause any issues in the future? Any potential hazards? It's still covered with electrical tape and I was able to inserted it completely into the angel light bulb though. It fired right up after I turned the switch on.

Also, getting those retainer spring clips off and on to the high beam bulbs was a pain in the a**. Ridiculous design there.

The headlights internal wiring insulation is notorious for breaking down and cracking with pieces coming off due poor quality and high heat.

Every light I've opened up suffers from this to various degrees.