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Lighting

Mythbusting: XENON BULBS

Awkward, expensive and potentially hazardous to fit? Not true, RING says.

 

Despite gaining popularity since the 90s, many garages and technicians are still reluctant to fit Xenon HID (high intensity discharge) bulbs, citing them as difficult to fit, overly expensive, and potentially dangerous. Ring Automotive Lighting talks to Vital News to dispel some of the most common myths surrounding Xenon bulbs.

MYTH 1: Xenon HID bulbs are difficult to fit

Not true - Once the headlamps and ignition are switched off and the fuse removed, the bulb can be replaced in very much the same way as a standard halogen filament bulb.

ABIDE BY THE LAW!

HID conversion kits are illegal in the UK. In order for a HID bulb to be fitted in a car designed for halogen bulbs, the entire headlight unit needs to be replaced.

MYTH 2: Xenon HID bulbs must be replaced by the main dealer

Not true - Fitting a Xenon HID bulb is relatively simple; there isn’t any reason why independent mechanics and technicians cannot fit them.

MYTH 3: You can’t tell the quality of a Xenon HID bulb just by looking at it

Not true – All Ring Xenon HID bulbs are E marked to identify that they meet the strict requirements of ECE Regulation 99 – the UNECE standard for gas discharge light sources for vehicles. Before buying, look for the E mark (and approval number) on the base.

MYTH 4: The market for Xenon HID bulbs is in decline

Not true – On the contrary, HID headlights are expected to become more common as the number of vehicles with HID headlamps entering the car parc is still growing. Demand for D3S and D4 bulbs in particular is growing significantly due to changes in legislation regarding the use of mercury. Approximately 10% of vehicles in the UK car parc have HID headlights, a number which is expected to grow rapidly as HID bulbs are no longer restricted to just premium or luxury vehicles.

MYTH 5: Xenon HID bulbs last forever

Not true – While you can expect Xenon HID headlights to last 2-3 times longer than standard halogen headlights, Xenon HID bulbs will change colour temperature during their service lifespan, and eventually their light output will fall. With this in mind, Ring recommends replacing both Xenon HID bulbs at least every five years, to ensure light output is consistent.

LIGHTING THE WAY

HID bulbs offer customers better visibility from the crisper, whiter light provided by HID bulbs, with better energy efficiency.

 

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