Hi folks, one of my Xenon headlights seems to be losing its brightness. Instead of brilliant white, it has a less bright and very slightly red tinge. It has no problem lighting up; the color and brightness is just off. Does anyone know what the source of the problem might be? Is it's time near? (The MINI is almost 10 years old now. It is a 2004.)

 

Could be either a bulb coming close to the end of its life or a ballast going bad.

Does the light flicker at all or has it turned a different color than the other?

 

I would guess bulb by the description, but yes...does it flicker or have weird issues other than color?

 

One thing to remember about xenon bulbs...they are more of an arc light...life span is determined more by on/off cycles than hours of use...most give a slight shimmer/flicher when they light...than are fully bright.
Are the bulbs the orgional? Most oem's proclaim that a xenon bulb is good for about 10 years of typical automotive use....many/ most of the cheap e-bays replacents are a much lower grade...good for much less.

 

The color is slightly pink/red. It is the original bulb. I haven't notice any flickering while driving, but I will check later and see.

Thanks for the input, folks.

 

Any chance you're still on the original battery? I noticed recently one side was a little dim looking, but when I swapped in a new battery a week later the lights went back to normal.

 

Yes, in fact I am on the original battery. I will try replacing it first (about time, perhaps) and see whether the problem is solved. Thanks!

 

Well, crap, the bad xenon flickered (three flashes every three seconds or so) and never lit up this evening. I haven't done any research/reading up on this yet, so if anyone know what the problem is and what needs to be done I'd appreciate input. :-(

 

Definitely the bulb. Time for a replacement unfortunately.

 

Thanks.

 

To make sure you can swap the bulbs too and see if the bulb issue moves or stays in that headlight.

 

Bad bulb for sure. Both of mine went bad within a week.

Jim

 

+1, this'll help in making a more accurate decision than just replacing unnecessary parts.

 

Bulbs.. Mine went pink about a week before it died. Buy two so the colours match.

 

Don't just buy 2 so the colors match, but because if one went the other will go soon too

 

Just an update: It was the bulb. I replaced both and the xenons are good as new. Purchased the bulbs for a good price at PelicanParts. Thanks guys!