231 HID Headlights.... not on mine.

[CarlW]

So I'm a bit baffled because I keep reading that all 231 models have the HID headlights fitted as standard. Well my 231 (2006) has most definitely got halogen headlights, (which are about as much use as driving with a head torch on ) it also has the headlight leveling sensors (which don't work) that I've read are only fitted to models with HID headlights.

I was actually looking at the leveller on the front nearside the other day and found a stray wire with a connector on the end tucked away. Hoping it's the reason why they don't work, if I can find out where to plug it in

Any thoughts?

[New Duke]

Are you 100% sure that you don't have a 192 with the front bumper from a 231 fitted? Serious question.

Or I suppose your headlights could have been swapped for 192 halogen headlights and that's why the washers were unplugged.

[Ollie]

I'd put money on a swap to 192 headlights personally.

[mrspiller]

That’s a right ball ache of a job to swap from what I gather


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[New Duke]

I'd put money on a swap to 192 headlights personally.

At least it's an easy test. Warm it up. Foot to the floor and see where the rev limiter cuts the fuel!

[Ollie]

This is true.

[Ainmhidh]

Unless it's been mapped higher...

[warpc0il]

Just to be clear, the 231 only has HID on the dipped beam. All 8's have H9 (Halogen) main beams.

It could be that someone had an issue with the self-levelling system, required for HID, and it was easier to retrofit 192 light units rather than get it sorted. This downgrade is easy, it's the upgrade to HID that's complex.

So, you have choices;
- find all the missing bits you need from another 231 and get the HIDs working with the self-levelling.
- replace the existing H7 dipped beam bulbs with Nightbreakers or similar, to get near HID performance from halogen. This would be my choice, replacing the main beam bulbs while you're at it.
- replace with some sort of LED system

[CarlW]

Definitely got a 231, so I have been thinking that it's had the front bumper replaced and lights as well. I'm guessing possibly by someone who didn't know there was any difference. That would certainly explain why the headlight leveling isn't connected.

Am I correct in thinking that those without the auto levelling are supposed to have the manual adjuster down by the DSC Off button?

[Phil Bate]

Correct. You might also find that the loom has been modified behind the headlight units as one of the connecters is different between the two types