Hi all,

I'm soliciting opinions for lighting options (from the best of course) for lighting on the front end of my 2011 BRG MC, white top. I'm going for a sporty look to the car (changing to a MCS spoiler, will be tinting windows, added white/carbon fiber stubby antenna) but not looking for over-the-top, if that makes sense.

Story - As I was researching replacement bulbs for my halogen headlights (went with Philips X-treme's) and fog lights, it came to my attention that I do not, in fact, have fog lights. As you are all likely already aware, the fog light option and parking lights are two separate and distinct items (as my embarrassment fades, I contemplate my next move).

As I said, I purchased Philips X-treme power H13's for my headlight replacement (awaiting arrival) and now am considering my options for additional lighting up front. I have no "real need" for additional lights, but just "want" them for function and looks. That said, as I see it, I have 2 options: add driving lights via Out Motoring Gen 2 MID Light Brackets, likely PIAA or the like, or swap out my current parking light housings and add the parking light/fog light housing (eBay will be likely source) in the stock fog position with something like a PIAA H8 Plasma Ion yellow bulb.

In both cases, I will need to run wiring and a switch. My thoughts here are go directly to the battery (already have a 8 gauge tapped for stereo) or ignition switched source and I would love to utilize the stock position on the center console switch bank (but would have to find the correct switch bank and swap my current one out). Or is there a stock solution I am overlooking?

All in, I imagine if there was any cost difference, it will be slightly pricier to add the driving lights, but pretty immaterial overall.

So my questions:
- Which setup to go with and more importantly why?? If driving lights, top of bumper or front of bumper??

- Power off battery (constant switching on and off but easiest method) or find an ignition switched source? or stock solution?

- Use stock switch bank (know where to find new ones I can customize??) or just use 12v lighted switch to match accent lighting (green of course)?

- Do anything with regard to the W5W parking light bulbs in the fog housing, which would apply in either decision I go with?

Lastly, with regard to warranty (I have balance of factory and extended 7-100k), will either setup definitely void or definitely keep my warranty intact? Like I said, I've already hit the battery with an 8 gauge power wire to power some audio equipment, so that may even be a moot question, but wanted to hear some thoughts on that issue as well.

Apologies for the length of my post here and thank you for taking the time to read my brain dump. I really appreciate any and all thoughts on my project.

Regards,
Gary

 

Ok, here goes,

If you add extra lights, you really should run a relay, do not try to run all that current through the switch.

Driving lights are more high beams, and shouldn't be on all the time. They should be mounted as high as possible.

You probably aren't going to successfully modify the switch bank. It isn't what you think it is.

 

Thanks for the input! I definitely intend to run a relay. I didn't specify, but I meant ignition switched or direct from the battery before my switch for relay signal, not power.
As I do some searching for switch banks, I think I follow your comment about it not being what I think it is. I'm sure there's a way to utilize it how I'm contemplating, but probably not worth the headaches.
I think the wiring is going to be pretty straightforward in either scenario, so I'm more focused on fog lights in stock fog light position versus driving/fog lights using the outmotoring mount brackets (maybe ultimately both).
That and warranty issues, if any for installing these items and the stereo wiring already in.
Thanks again!

 

Don't know if you did this yet or not but, I did the parking light switch with eBay components and a relay and posted a link with pictures. They are wired from the battery and spliced so they just come on with my lights. Works out perfectly for me and no messing with the interior at all. Less than the $250 Mini charge for factory lights.

 

I'd go for driving lights, IMHO they are more useful. Mount them on top of the bumper for best results. Wire the lights with a relay & use the high beam wire at the headlights to switch them. That way when oncoming traffic comes dip them with the high beam switch.

 

Definitely prefer fogs I just removed the driving lights

 

Thanks for the input!! I think I've decided to go with Piaa fog lamps and am going to mount them on the Outmotoring Mid light mounts (they sit the lamp about level with the bumper). I already made a switch panel on the driver side knee roll (see attached pics) which has my sub level **** and 2 toggles. I just need to add relays and battery power. I've put off some modding as we house shop so the wife and kids don't kill me as we try to move. I'll get it done eventually, just on hold for now. I'll definitely post some pics once completed. Thanks again for the input!!!

 

I have both and would not give up either one. They are both useful for different situations. The driving lights really fill in the pattern of my Xenons. I even installed 8" KC driving lights on my Suburban just to help avoid the deer around here, especially during hunting season. Lots of dark country roads.

 

I had the Dealer install these for my 50th Birthday Present to myself!! I'm with you VetSette...I wouldn't be without them especially since when I go to fellow PDX MINI Club Member's houses and they live out in the booneys, one use and I knew it was a good choice.