Lightbulb Directives
 

Hey, Gang.

I've got an R57 Cooper S Cabrio (clearly because I'm posting in this area) and am a little confused. As it's dark out right now and I can't very well see in the dark, can someone tell me if my car comes with Hallogen or some other type of light bulb?

I'm looking for something a bit brighter because the lights on the car after 100k miles don't seem all that bright.

What would you recommend?

Can I get them via a vendor on this forum or via mail order (and is that recommended)?

Is install difficult - I seem to remember on my 2010 R56 having a bear of a time getting my hand into the hood area to replace a light bulb - and do I need any special tools?

Lastly, is it OK for me to touch the bulb's surface or should I get surgical gloves or something to keep oils off the bulb?

Thanks in advance!

Jeff

You're probably going to need to probably post a picture of your headlight assembly.
You could have halogens (likely if you're complaining of low light levels) or Xenon projectors (which are basically MINI's answer to HID headlights.)

Xenon headlights have a ring of dots around a projector lens.

http://new.minimania.com/images_temp...1g2nma3210.jpg

Halogen headlights have a more exposed bulb.

http://new.minimania.com/images_temp...g2nmx1520r.jpg

Your Owners Manual has instructions for changing halogen bulbs (but not for xenon bulbs). Also search for YouTube video instructions. You can get headlight bulbs at auto parts stores, some hardware stores, Walmart, etc. Xenon bulbs are expensive and you can shop for better deals online.

Another possible factor that could affect brightness is if the headlight lenses turn cloudy.

Yes, you should keep oils off the bulb, but anything will do. Just handle the bulb using a clean paper towel or cloth.

Headlights
 

Hi Jeff!

Yes, use those disposable gloves that cost about $2 for a packet of 20.

Here is the standard OEM bulb guide:

http://new.minimania.com/part/G2NMX1...Mini-Cooper--S

Here's a easy way to restore your MINI's headlights:

http://new.minimania.com/How_to_Restore_Headlights

Hope this helps!

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

do you have headlight washers?????