if price isnt an isue, are the factory driving lights better then the piaa?

 

IMO the smaller diameter of the factory lights gives a better appearance than the after market lights.

 

Everything I've read on the internet says the factory driving lights are more cosmetic than functional. I have not driven a MINI with the factory driving lights, so I can neither confirm nor deny that. I've got PIAA 540s and have been quite pleased with the looks, the build quality and the performance. Being around half the price of the factory kit is a nice bonus.

 

Can the factory light bulbs be upgraded to a higher wattage like the piaa? I belive the 55w bulbs can be changed to the 85w xtreme whites. Also will the color of light match the high beem light?

 

I have the OEM driving lights, and I like them. Aimed properly, they throw a decent beam, even with the stock 55 watt bulbs. I would advise against upping the bulb wattage in the OEM lights because the relay and wiring provided would be pressed to the amperage limit with 85 or 100 watt bulbs, and I have heard stories of the lens cracking from the additional heat.

 

Thanks for the info. Are the stock lights a yellowish light or white?

 

They are more yellow than white. Depending on how you have them wired, though, it might not matter. I have them wired to dealer spec (only on when high beams are on). Since the high beams are not Xenon, it's not like the driving lamps will be spoiling the effect. My DL's make a difference, but frankly, I don't get to use them much in the city, so they're more for aesthetics. The coolest light, IMHO, is when the Xenons are on by themselves (lo-beam). JR

 

Well now I have my lights and I'm anxious to install them. Only problem is I’m missing a little something (the car). Well besides that I have a question on install. The instructions and says "treat all the holes with the standard MINI anti-corrosion measures” What is this?