I have had my 2009 Mini coup for a week now and am having a blast. The only thing I am disappointed with is the brightness of the headlights.I read that someone changed out the headlights to a high intensity system. Has anyone done this with success? If so, please tell me where to look.
Dail

 

I would like to know this as well. I have an '04. I plan to get driving lights installed but is this possible?

 

Not sure about the aftermarket HID upgrade, I've seen it done with varying degrees of success on some Hondas but never a MINI, mine came with them from the factory. You may be better off just swapping out the bulbs. There was a post a while back about what the best bulbs are, just do a search.

Driving lights are one of the many mods that are relatively easy to do, just be careful if you get them. There are different laws about when and how you can use them depending upon where you are located.

 

My understanding is that an HID upgrade is pretty costly, as it requires an upgrade to the wiring system, installation of balasts, etc... Definately not a DIY project I think.

 

I changed my OEM low beam bulbs to Sylvania Silverstar Ultras. You can catch them on sale or with rebates sometimes. I like them very much.

 

Make sure not to get aftermarket bulbs if they have a higher wattage rating. I've seen this cause a lot of issues with harnesses and bulb connectors melting.

 

Thanks all for the help. I will probably change out the bulbs and call it a day... I am surprised that Mini Cooper sends these fantastic machines out with such mundane headlamps. I can't wait for the 1250 miles to go by so I can take the Mt Lemmon Highway here in Tucson....
Dail

 

I do a lot of early morning (dark) driving on country roads. The area is literally infested with deer (stupid ones). I hit one a few years ago in my truck and do not want a repeat with my MINI. I have the stock headlights and wish I had gotten the upgrade. I feel like I just can't see far enough down the road to feel comfortable. Another 100-150 or so feet would be nice. I guess I'll try another bulb type.

 

You may want to have the dealer double-check the headlight alignment. It's possible that they're not aimed properly.

 

I did this on my Saab without any problems. I bough them from vvme.com . I know some people that think it is a DIY. But I am not a very hands on, technical person, so I had them installed for me. I got the 8000K temperature and they are much brighter, my high beams are amazing. Plus vvme.com has them for very good prices, they come from China I think, so shipping is not lighting fast, and the box may or may not be in English. But I had them on my car for about a year with no problems, so quality does not seem to be an issue.