I have a 2011 R56 with stock halogen headlights that I would like to upgrade to factory HID. I called the dealership and they quoted me $340 for the pair of projectors but also three hours of labor. I am wondering if this is a job I could do myself and what parts I would need in addition to the projectors. Are the ballasts built into the headlight assemblies and do they need a different wiring harness? I have several years of experience working on Jeeps (drivetrain, trim, electronics, suspension, etc) and design electronics for a living, however, this is my first MINI. Is this replacement something one can do on their own, assuming they had the proper tools, or should I leave it to the pros? Thank you in advance.

 

Search is your friend here on NAM.

But to get you started check out this thread and specifically post #11 in the thread.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-bi-xenon.html

 

This is the reason why I retrofitted projectors and HIDs into my '09 and will not buy another MINI w/o Xenons.

 

Thank you for the link. Looking through the amount of work and thinking of just changing the bulbs. Not sure how much modding I want to do to the electrical system for an in-warranty car.

 

Oh no please don't put HIDs in the stock reflectors :(

 

Very motivational! Let me see if I can figure out the auto-leveling interface, maybe I can hook it up to an accelerometer module without having to access the suspension. The extra resistors may be a deal breaker. I will keep you guys posted.

 

Does anyone know if the ballasts are integrated into the light housings or are they separate boxes? Thanks.

 

The part number will be for the housing only, no bulb or controller. (Image from Pelican Parts)

I think you can also not hook the auto leveling up and it just doesn't move.

 

I am hoping to start out with this kit: P/N 63120422185 ( http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...97&hg=63&fg=95 ) it seems to contain housings, bulbs, ballast, and control unit. Sorry about the noob questions, am I reading the description correctly?

 

this kit include everything.levers,bulbs,hose for washers and wiring.the problem is to see the serial code of Xenon's control unit.there are 2 units.one until 08 model i think and another after 08.you must be very careful with this.
And also you have to make the reprogramming