Information: Replacement Headlamp Bulbs

[gjd]

Hello

I've not had to replace headlamp bulbs too often, but when I have I've used the local accessory shop standards.

I've just found an Internet site that offers Philips and Osram bulbs that promise 90% more light than standard, without having to do anything more than change the bulbs. The site says: "New from Osram - Night Breaker delivers up to 90% more light on the road for optimum visibility and safety and a 10% whiter light for minimal glare and optimum comfort."

Even the site's cheapest own-brand bubs claim 50% more light, with xenon gas in the bulbs and so on.

Has anyone any advice on whether these claims are as good as they sound? While I've no particular complaint about the standard autoshop bulbs, seeing around 30% further on a dark and stormy night is an attractive idea.

Thanks!

[Alec Dawe]

If you check the AutoExpress site, I think you will find that they tested headlamp bulbs some time ago, and the Osram and Phillips came out as the best (I'm working from memory here).
As well as having the brightest light, they were also made to better tolerances, so the filament was in the 'right' place in the reflector, so giving a better beam pattern.
Some of the cheap bulbs they tested were very bad in the beam shape stakes.

[kev240]

I have replaced the headlamp bulbs in both my 240 and my V70 with 'Philips X-treme Power Bulbs', I have noticed a marked improvement in the beams on both cars, these bulbs came out top in the 'Auto Express 2007 Product Honours', an award I think they deserve.
kevin.

[gjd]

Thanks for the swift reply - I looked up Autoexpress as suggested, and found this:
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/product...of_winter.html
They even tested the bulbs with a V70!

Thanks!

[John_C]

I have upgraded my standard bulbs to a set of Halfords "super brilliance" bulbs, they're decent value as they seem to be on permanant buy one get one free and the difference over standard bulbs is amazing. I'm guessing the review winners would be even better. Go for it!

Cheers,
John

[Alec Dawe]

LOL I bought a set of h lamp bulbs in Lidl when they had an automotive bits sale. Supposedly 30% brighter, and £2.99 a pair. Dunno what they are like yet, just bought to have a spare set in the car as I HATE drivers with one healdamp out!!

[murphysdad]

Hi All
I have been looking to replace the headlamp bulbs on my 850 with Osram night breakers but what does H1 H3 etc mean. I think the normal 850 lights are very poor.
regards IAN

[Jod T5]

Originally Posted by murphysdad

what does H1 H3 etc mean.

they relate to the bulb style, refer below for a few common sizes.....
http://www.autobulbsdirect.co.uk/hom...FQppQgodHRE2Kw
cheers
jod

[AndysR]

Originally Posted by John_C

I have upgraded my standard bulbs to a set of Halfords "super brilliance" bulbs, they're decent value as they seem to be on permanant buy one get one free and the difference over standard bulbs is amazing. I'm guessing the review winners would be even better. Go for it!

Cheers,
John

I have those fitted now and also have no complaints a nice marked improvement

[John_C]

I've decided to see if they do them in the right size for the 850 high beams as well. At the moment all my high beams offer me is more light above the dipped headlights, they don't light the road any further in front of the car. That's the difference the new dipped beam bulbs have made.

Cheers,
John