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Posted on Aug 05, 2009
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Headlights aren't bright enough at night

I have a 2002 VW Passat W8. Just bought it and the headlights seem really dim when I drive at night. I just can't see far enough ahead of the vehicle to know what's coming up. It almost appears as if they are pointed downward, instead of forward. When you look at them head on, they don't appear dim at all though. Any suggestions on what might be the problem? And also how to correct?

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  • Posted on Aug 21, 2010
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Having same problem with my 2001 vw passat 1.8t. My headlight lenses are crystal clear but my normal headlights are extremely dim and my brights are as bright as my headlights should be. What is the least expensive option?

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  • Posted on Aug 11, 2009
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Don't change to HID Xenon or Bi-Xenon unless you change the entire headlight unit, as your standard headlamp units are not designed for this. You will only end up blinding oncoming traffic, and your beam scatter will be all over the place.

Take your car to a servicing garage or dealer and ask them to check the headlight alignment. If you are still unhappy with the headlight performance, there are plenty of quality halogen bulbs out there - just look at the Philips or Osram automotive range.

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  • Posted on Aug 05, 2009
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I would first check the allignment. At night pull up to your garage door with the door down and stop about 6 feet or so in front of it. You will be able to see exactly where your lights are shining if they are in fact shining in front of your car or at the ground. If the allignment is good and your lenses are not foggy or dirty, you could always upgrade your bulbs. There is a wide selection of lights for cars nowadays like the xenon and others. Good Luck!

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