Noticed when my wife took the 02 off to a class tonight and I was in another of our cars in front of her, that the headlights are a little yellow. I did a search on the site but didn't come up with anything that gave me any help as to an upgrade, things to check etc. So can the forum help me with advice on;

a) what would be standard headlight set up,
b) are there improvements to the standard that don't look too modified.

Thanks as always for the wisdom of the group.

Cheers

Richard

-Are they always that dim? If no, check the grounds, bulb conections and fuse conection to make sure your not getting too much resistance.

what headlamps are you using now? Those h4 lamps are pretty bright

what headlamps are you using now? Those h4 lamps are pretty bright

Ooops! They are the standard bulbs used - not H4 - no wonder its a little yellow though still providing enough illimination to drive safely.

No doubt halogens will do the world of good but I'll need to put in a relay I guess as the original system wouldn't have had that ... or does/did it?

Richard,
Being a Euro 02' it has either H3 or H4, halogen globes (H3s are similar shape to H4s - round backplate but without the 3 tabs). If you want brighter headlights, put in relays on both high/low beams then put in some 100/130W H4/H3s. But it could be the silver coating (silver NOT chrome) on the reflectors is dull/rusty, they scratch very easily so take care if you are trying to clean them. If they are really bad, try some chrome spray paint, or look at getting them chromed. New ones are about $140 or whole light assembly. $300 (AUD) per side through Jaymic in UK, I haven’t tried the local dealer to replace mine yet. I’d add the relays regardless. Good luck with em’.
Beaner7102

Thanks Shaun - I just checked and they don't look like halogens to me - they are standard 45/40 watt 12V NARVO brand headlight bulbs - the big, round style bulb with dual filament.

Aren't the H3's usually a narrow style of bulb with usually a dark tip on the outside of the glass?

Checked the reflectors - could see them thru the bulb hole - just like the rest of the car fortunately, just clean and bright!

Thanks mate!

Yeah the H3/H4s are narrow with a dark tip. You may still be able to get higher watt globes, but get some relays first or you will melt wires or burn out your headlight switch ($200 new). I'm supprised I thought all Euro models had H4 globes.
Beaner7102.

The lady I bought it off was fairly meticulous with the car - even down to there being BMW fuel hose (new stuff) in the engine bay when I imagine good quality (cheaper) hose would have done. So either they have replaced the H4's at some stage with conventional globes or that's how they've been from the start ... we'll never know I guess.

I'll get some relays sorted and upgrade the lights now I have the info you've all provided - thanks.