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Blindingly oblivious
The problem ‘highlighted’ recently with xenon lamps is unlikely to be with properly installed lights, which have self-adjusters. The problem is with aftermarket lights, which are fitted to standard headlights without adjusters, especially as the lenses are not designed to work with these bulbs. The kits are sold for off-road use but most people ignore this requirement. The Department of Transport actually produces guidance on this. Perhaps it should be an Mot fail or effectively policed?
Asked on 19 June 2010 by PC, Beckenham
Answered by
Honest John
Wrong. The problem is also with self-adjusting Xenons that don't self-adjust fast enough. I have driven new cars on undulating roads where the Xenons were either pointing at the ground or at the sky. Also there is a very high failure rate of Xenon self-adjusting mechanisms (that cost £800 - £1,000 a side to replace). And, even adjusting correctly, left dipped Xenons of German cars shine directly into the door mirrors of cars being approached and overtaken. You are absolutely right that aftermarket xenon kits should be illegal. More at www.blindedbixenon.co.uk
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