dim headlights

[shadquattro]

any advice on bulbs or aftermarket headlight units have fitted the h**f**ds 30 % brilliance bulbs but the difference was mostly noticable in the pocket
any suggestions

[Dr H]

I think I have phillips ones in mine. They were fitted by the last owner but are very good. Quite a 'white' light really. I'll see if I can get one out and check it for a number or similar.

Leigh

[shadquattro]

thanks i think the phillips bulbs did well in auto express this week that would be really helpful

[Dr H]

Not sure if they are Philips now as there is no brand on them anyway this is what is says on them:

Alite
H12v55w
E122J
22680
Xenon

Not sure if this helps

[audiman]

Dim headlights is normally caused by the reflectors inside the headlamp tarnishing. Uprated bulbs will help for a bit, but they will get worse.

Dont get standard wattage bulbs, not sure what type of bulb is in later S2, i think its an H1?? (ABY owners help me out here).
Get a higher wattage, say 100w. These should brighten things up a bit.

Yes technically they are illegal but then how many ppl do you know that the police have done for having too bright a light bulb??

IMHO, the BEST solution is to replace the reflectors and then purchase one of Martynf's HID light kits from VAGparts. This will make things a lot better.

[s2avant]

My non-ellipsoid headlamps were ridiculously dim. I'd have been better of with candles up front.

I've finally got round to fitting the ellipsoids that should be on it and the improvement is incredible. All I need to do now is repair all that molten wiring under the dash and maybe I can get them to stay on instead of flashing.

Ben

[shadquattro]

your lucky, even nightlights would be a big improvement for me.i have tried birthday cake candles but as soon we hit90 they went out seriously though i may have to have a word with young martyn about new reflectors cause when i tried to clean them some of the silver stuff flaked off

[audiman]

Originally posted by madshad
though i may have to have a word with young martyn about new reflectors

Dont be fooled by his sense of humour, hes no spring chicken!!

But anyway, buy some new reflectors and some high wattage bulbs and you will be amazed at the difference. It will be like driving in daylight (sort of)