Hello, I am looking to buy my first mini R55 but it originally came with HID headlights as an option. I cant afford to replace them since the actual assembly is broken. is it possible, even though they came from the factory with HID, to put in a cheaper, halogen version? they are listed on Rock Auto but i'm not sure they will work with the computer. I don't know much so any info would help. Thanks!

 

Get a used set from a pick and pull junk yard......

 

Old ones that are good at a junk yard. Only other option for Xenons is what i did aftermarket and you swap over the old parts ( bulb and ballast) to the new one. So its just the housing. Older cars have to get the updated ballast design new or used, its marked below.

Option 1.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-spyder-p...-yd-mc07-hid-/



Option 2.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-spyder-p...-yd-mc07v2hid/



Options 3. Spyders style above but cheaper:

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-fk-parts...sbm016007~fks/

 

I feel like I just stumbled here and found the answer to my posted question about the different ballast designs. Is it as simple as getting the 3 screw ballast to replace the 4 screw?

 

yep, you swap them out. their was an update to the ballast design in 9/2009 : *For MINIs with the older ballast pre 9/2009 you will need to use MINI part # 63117356250 ballast