So, are HID conversions actually that good?

jamy99

Guest
I have recently ugraded my headlights to HID using an ebay HID conversion kit with the hope it would improve my dipped beam.

My first attempt was with the standard H7 bulbs (6000k). Initially (in the daylight) I was very pleased with the results- they were brighter and crisper than my standard lights. So I tried them at night and I was slightly disappointed. I expected an even block of light in front of the car to show me where I was going. Instead I got a very uneven pattern of light on the road in front. Yes the bright bits of the pattern were very bright, but there were holes in the pattern with hardly any light at all.

So, after reading on here that H7 bulbs aren't really for MK1 Leon reflector headlights, I changed the bulbs to the H7r type, but this hasn't made any difference at all, in fact I think they are slightly worse.

I do like the HIDs from an aesthetic view, but from a practical view I am disappointed. I am sure I have set them up properly and the kit I used was highly recommended by a friend.

Has anyone else had a similar experience?
 

jamy99

Guest
So do you get a good even block of light on the road in the dark?
 

csd_19

Full Member
May 11, 2005
2,280
28
Angus / Edinburgh
Never found an issue with HIDs in the stock headlights, although the night performance got better going to 5000k bulbs instead of 6000k. Gives a better light output.
 

jamie982

Active Member
Mar 21, 2012
61
0
somerset
fitted my 6000k hids the other week and was very impressed with the outcome, much brighter than the stock bulbs, you tried leveling the headlamps to raise the beam?
 

jamy99

Guest
yes I tried raising the beam but still get the same pattern, just a bit higher!
 

jamie982

Active Member
Mar 21, 2012
61
0
somerset
when i get in from work tonight il have a look and see if i can get an uneven pattern with my lights then might be able to help you a bit more in sorting this out,
 

jamy99

Guest
Thats great cheers

Do you think my headlights might need adjusting using the adjustment screws?
 

jamie982

Active Member
Mar 21, 2012
61
0
somerset
You really need to have it at a test centre to check the beam alignment, then you will know for sure if it's out,
 

jamy99

Guest
I've had a look at the headlight adjustment screws. There are 2 screws. Is one for main beam and one for dipped?
 
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