I hit a M#@*& Pothole this morning at 5AM. Car went BOOM! Pulled over and no flat tire and no apparent alignment problem yet detected. But drivers side headlight is pointed down not forward. Should I call the Dealer? WOuld this be covered by Mini or call my insurance. Can I take it to my normal mechanic for a quick fix since the Dealership is far away and a time thing. Help I need headlights!

 

Most likely not covered by MINI... not a defect in materials or workmanship in your car, bur for sure a defect in the paving of DC's abominable roads. Sometimes folks get some compensation from municipalities for damages caused by potholes... worth looking into. Be sure to check your strut towers in the engine bay for mushrooming, too. Good luck!

 

Thanks Ed,
Sad part was I was still in MD. but do you think this is something I can easily fix at a regular mechanic vs. dealer so as to get done quickly? anyone?

 

I guess the saddest part is that it happened at all.
I'm sure any competent body shop/mechanic can either fix the headlight, or replace the damaged parts. It might not be all that serious... just a simple adjustment!

 

there is a sensor on the left rear control arm of the MCS that is a small black plastic box with a plastic arm that feeds a signal to tell the headlights how high to point. perhaps this signal is being affected, or that box/arm is not right.... just pointing out it might be something your not expecting as for why the front light is angled low.

good luck!

 

Thanks R56 and MadHatter,
I looked in the engine bay and popped the end cap on the headlight. Found inside plastic points where is screwed together plus a part that was popped out. One of the points with screws is broken. Think I will have to put in a whole new headlight. Called Geico to make a claim, since there is no body damage I don't know if I should be going to a body shop, mechanic, or trudging all the way out to the dealer. If I make a claim, I still have to have the ins. co inspect it. Also, THINK I hear something while driving and it feels like it turns easier to the left then right but I do not feel a pull.