I've read that the Zenon headlights can be switched to LHD by a switch under the removal cover of the lamp.

I've taken the cover off but cannot see any switch or lever.

Have I got it wrong (as usual!) or can this be done. It's aRHD but will be with me in France and will be imported in a few weeks time, as soon as the V5c come back.

Thanks,

Norman Verona

Yeah that's right, if it's a 2005 Cooper S you have then I assume it's a facelifted model - I've not looked at the xenons on a 1st gen, but on the 2nd gen there is a small white lever within the headlight, tucked to the side. It's quite hard to see, but I assume it's something similar on the 1st gen

Thanks 118. I'll have a really good look with a torch. Only problem is refitting the damn bulb assembly (if I take it out). I have a bad back at the moment and trying to lean over backwards to refit it is a no no.

Keep you informed.

They are quite awkward, even worse on yours being a 1st gen with the clamshell bonnet and integrated headlights! Good luck

I'm going outside right now, before I get sidetracked anymore. Just waiting for the ride on to cool down so I can finish the bit of grass in front of the house. Have a really big one for the other 10 acres so I suppose I have 9 vehicles in all.

Agree with Ian! I sure I've read it's just a case of flicking a switch!

Facelift first gen xenons have a flat beam and aren't adjustable as a result. My dealer told me ni need for beam deflectors or anything like that, and when i took my r53 to France i had no issues with dazzling or the police.

Sorry Moon but you and the dealer are wrong. I believe mine is an R53.

Remove the power pack and the bulb holding ring. Do not touch the bulb, if you do wipe with nail varnish remover (acetone). If you look into the light reflector you can see the beam deflector plate (beam me up Scotty). If you now look to the outside of the plate (outside the housing) in the horizontal plane you will see a tiny white lever almost covered by the plastic bulb housing. Use a thin electrical screwdriver to move it up or down.

If anyone wants photo's I'll take some on Sunday (out tomorrow and too knackered now), just shout and your wish will be my command.

Many, many thanks 118. I've got your number.

Haha no problem, glad you managed to find it

That'll be another mechanic on my s**t list.

^ I get the impression that's a fairly substantial list sir

felt_tip_felon wrote:

^ I get the impression that's a fairly substantial list sir

Several pages now. There must be at least 6 mechanics on there. I cannot abide incompetence. Mistakes are fine, but telling me that there was nothing wrong with my automatic car when I showed them it stalling is downright lunacy.

Having spent 20 years running workshops the biggest problem, as I see it, is no one gives them the basics.

I taught my receptionist to accept if a customer said there was something wrong - there was something wrong. Because he (mechanic or receptionist) couldn't find it didn't mean it was all right.

The other thing we practiced was to have the keys to a loan car in reception. If a customer returned with a complaint the routing was  "That's not good, is it Sir/Madam. Take this red Laurel (we were Nissan dealers from 76 to 89) and we'll fix yours and then bring it back to you.

Considering we were in Whitechapel Rd and violence was common, it's amazing how that stops them in their tracks and sorts the situation out.

Finally, never quote specs without having the book in front of you for confirmation.

I think it's probably easier than doing it wrong.