12 replies to this topic

[M0U5EY]

Hi guys,

I am running a 1998 cooper which I absolutely love and is pretty close to being perfect (imo). My most recent gripe with it is the front headlights, full beam is fine but on dip, they just aren't good enough for my liking, especially with rain and oncoming traffic. Because of this, I have started looking for a replacement and with so many options out there I thought I would ask you guys!

I have so far see halogens, LEDs and custom projectors of all different bulbs, sizes, and price....

My issue with the projectors and to some extent the LEDs is that they change the look of the front of the car which I'm not too keen on which leaves halogen (Tell me if I'm wrong). With so many options, I came to ask which is generally best for a RHD cooper like mine, just the pair on mini sport;

http://www.minispare...px|Back to shop

 

or these?

https://www.minispor...abs_description

 

Thanks for any advice!

[Artstu]

The light in the second link isn't a Cibie, well at least the photo isn't. I'd go with Cibies and perhaps some LED bulbs.

 

Cibie link https://www.larkspee...?p=8482439&a=i#

 

Edited by Artstu, 26 February 2018 - 08:00 PM.

[M0U5EY]

That looks good thanks, although rather expensive for some of the LEDs, are there any particular favorites among this forum? and do these work on dip? Also, what is the lux/lumen rating for standard headlights?

Edited by M0U5EY, 26 February 2018 - 08:52 PM.

[Minigman]

If I were you Id fit Cibie H180s. At £120 a pair theyre not the cheapest but coupled with some Osram nightbreaker bulbs, they are hugely superior to the quadoptics etc that most people fit (including myself). The beam pattern is much much better, it gives a slight sideways light too making turning tight corners more assured. Honestly, I cant recommend them enough.

[M0U5EY]

Yeah, the nightbreakers look very good, and at a very good price! As for the Cibies, what actually are they? Are they just a different enclosure for the bulb to change the beam pattern? If so, is the original pattern that much worse (would be a lot easier to just change the bulb!)

[Carlos W]

Wiring upgrade really helps too.

 

WiredbyWilson does a kit

[spin]

Cibie lamps:

 

£100. inc UK mainland shipping.

 

https://www.larkspee...opper/i/8482439

[Mat]

I found Wipac Quadoptics with Phillips Xtremevision bulbs were absolutely fine, much cheaper than Cibies too.

[timmy850]

One of the first things to check is how much voltage you're actually getting at the headlamps. Putting in higher power bulbs won't help if you're struggling to get enough power. Then check that the adjustment is OK. If you have a 1998 model does it have the self leveling system, and does it still work? 

 

If you have H4 lenses already you can try new H4 bulbs before bothering to replace the whole light unit. 

[pinkmini99]

Personally Ill have a word with wired by Wilson about upgrading your wiring first. Plus he should be able to help you with what light units to get

[rich_959]

Folks, do any of these full unit upgrades retain the function of the mpi adjustable headlights? Or would you have to keep those units and just do bulb/wiring upgrades mentioned above?

[Midas Mk1]

Headlights on mpis are the same as earlier halogen style Minis, its just the bowls that are different. So there are lots of possibilities.

 

They are not self leveling, merely have adjustment for when the cars loaded up, as per modern cars. (Hardly ever used)

 

 

I used the freeform type lights with the led semicircle sidelight, thought need to upgrade bulbs as the current phillips racing 150% ones are lasting 2 months if that. 

Edited by Midas Mk1, 28 February 2018 - 10:00 AM.

[WiredbyWilson]

As others have mentioned, a power supply is crucial to any bulb or led replacement.
I have developed a relay controlled stand alone harness which gives consistent great results as the power is a dedicated supply to only the lights.

When you have a strong 12v supply i have found osram nightbreakers to be equal to modern halogen set ups.

My kit is a simple plug and play and retains the standard look while giving modern performance, for only £75!

Message me if youd like more details.

David

Edited by WiredbyWilson, 28 February 2018 - 10:57 AM.