So, I'm new, like 3 days new to the Mini world. I have tried the search feature (I'm not new to forums, been using them for my vehicles since I could drive), but I just can't find a straight answer.


Q: Are there any LED bulbs that I can directly replace my current bulbs with in my headlights? High and low beam.


All I'm finding is people running retrofits, projectors, LED Halos, etc. I just want to keep my housing and everything and just have LED's for better light output.


Thanks!

 

I just installed these a few days ago for low and high beams:

Here's a pic with one side replaced to give you a comparison:


Some notes:

 

Interesting, I've seen a set like this before and thought about it.


So let me make sure I have everything right...


-You didn't have projectors or the factory HID lights, just plain halogens?
-These plugged right in, no wiring issues or extra steps?
-The only thing right now is the cover that goes over where the lights actually are doesn't exactly close all the way?


I'm new, like I said, so I'm not really aware to what the DRL mode is. I leave my headlights off during the day.

 

-Yes, I have just plain halogens. 4 H7 bulbs in all. Mine is a 2005 without the HID option
-They plugged right into the stock connector that normally goes to the bulb.
-The access covers in the back do go back on all the way. You have to be a bit creative in stuffing the wiring, driver module, and heat sinks, but it all does fit. I wanted to make sure I found a solution that allowed the covers to go back on. Otherwise rain/dust could work their way into the housings which would be really bad.

DRL is Daytime Running Lights. If the headlights are off and this option is enabled, the high beams are run at half brightness. Makes the car more noticeable while driving around during the day. These bulbs are compatible at running half brightness (early LED replacements weren't). If DRL is not enabled on your car, then it doesn't matter.

 

Great! Sounds like a pretty good option. And you've had no issues with people flashing you with your low beams on? How's the light output when actually driving? I've heard a lot of people say LED's are great and some say they are no good for driving.

 

I originally had just one pair of bulbs, so I put them in on the left side for both high and low beams and drove around on that to confirm I liked the brightness. Even with only one side changed, there was a noticeable difference. I just installed the other set late last night, so I haven't driven around yet. But during my initial test drive with one side, nobody flashed me.

While I'm very happy with the performance, per my original note, they are not time tested yet. So far so good, I just can't speak for them long term.

 

That looks good. I worry about the bulb-out error and have ordered canbus adapters to help aid the issue. Now to decide on what brand/make/seller to go with! I've been searching the market for quite some time and looking for reviews everywhere. What are your views when driving at night? Bright? Not bright enough? Just like halogen but colour temperature is brighter? How about distance of where the light shines?