The dip beams on my S Type are virtually useless (in my view) can anyone suggest an appropriate upgrade? High beam is fine.

Also, are there any tricks to changing them. Having previously owned an Alfa which ate headlamp bulbs for lunch and required a double jointed 5 year old to change them I am wary of "simple" tasks!

 

i'd put some 100w bulbls in (not road leagal in uk)or these maybe H7 Ring XENON Ultima +120% Headlamp Bulb 55W (Pair)

 

Since we don't know what year, model and engine size (that REALLY should be put into your signature), we don't know if you have the "broken" self leveling headlight assemblies, which by the way are covered in the FAQ here in the S Type section.

Help us help you.

 

OK I have to ask, after giving him this advice would you give him a ticket if you happened to stop him?

 

heh heh, i used to run 100w bulbs in my previous car, as long as the beams are adjusted correctly he should have no problems.

Badly adjusted beams are far more dazzling than 100w properly adjusted ones

I have not heard of anyone being prosecuted for incorrect bulb wattage.

The only way i know of checking the bulbs wattage at the side of the road is to remove the bulb and examine it. I can't see that happening.

anyway, i think bulbs should be rated in lumens.

 

I'm in the market as well and I found a PDF of a H7 headlight comparison and the Phillips X-treme Vision were the top rated. They can be had on ebay for about $50 USD for the pair. I don't think they're sold here in the US so I don't know if I'm gonna take the plunge on them just yet.

 

i have been tempted to go down the aftermarket hid road, but cant find any info if the s-type will think it is a bulb failure

 

In these cars, I wouldn't risk it TBH

 

been looking on this site, HID Kits, BMW Aftermarket Bumpers & Lighting, DEPO - DDM Tuning
The hid kits are cheaper than good bulbs, and they sell an "error eliminaor" at this price it might be worth a try.

 

Remember to tell your insurers if you do!

I guess you know they're illegal here, unless you also have self-levelling suspension and headlamp washers. Could/should be an MoT fail.

 

i know a few people with aftermarket hid kits and their cars pass an mot fine (i know they shouldnt) also you could just swap the bulbs back in for the mot