Hi,

I have a 1995 C-Class. I have upgraded the light bulbs (and replaced the headlight lenses) to make the headlights look like the new W210 E-Class lights - more whitish in appearance, than typical halogen headlights. Anyhow, i was wondering if anyone knew of a cheap way to get the real xenon lights? I would really like the xenon lights (because they look cool) and really do aid visiblitiy or should I just stay with what i have?

thanks,
Troy

The only real way to have Xenon lights is to replace complete lighting system. When you price the componets, it's not a bad deal to order car with them!! I'm sure that the lights are $2000+ to install.

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Hi again,

Theres an ad on the "mbnz.org" website where a guy is advertising true xenon lights for Mercedes for 599 - its the Phillips OEM HID for Lexus, MB, BMW, and Audi; so supposeduly what the factory offers. I've visisited the website, and it says the kit includes everything needed for installation. Anyhow, would anyone know of a cheaper way to get xenon lights or could really tell me if xenon lights are actually that much better than halogen lights. I'm running blue-tinted superwhite bulb in my headlights now which is better than the stock bulb. When my headlights light up at night they resemble the W210 E-Class Halogen Headlights (Anyone ever noticed how those headlights are a realy bright white?). I just wanted to know if xenon are really that much better. I would appreciate any comparisons.

Thanks,
Troy

Hello Troydw,

If you're looking for a cheaper way to get real xenons for your Benz then the offered Phillips for $599, I think you have to search very well!
I myself own a C-class as well and changed about every possible part of it (I went from a 1993 classic to a full-optioned 1996 sport-//AMG). I thought about putting xenons as well and I must admit that the light of xenons is way better then the standard headlights (my father ownes a E-class with xenon lights and the difference is very big).
Despite what manufacturers tell, the xenon bulbs tend to stop illuminating to often and sometimes to quick in stead of lasting a life-time! Replacing these bulbs is about 10-15 times more expensive as changing the standard Halogen bulbs.
If you want to install xenons, you will be needing some wiring and whipers as well.
Anyway, I decided for myself that the costs were not worth the effort although I already put in the wiring for the xenons and wipers in my car.

by the way: I've seen your name on mbnz.org several times as well concerning this issue...

greetingz

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1990 300SL-24
1993 C250D with a minor 600+k kilometer
www.MBenzNL.com(the Netherlands)

Hello,

I've visited the website mentioned on mbnz.org myself as well and I don't know whether these "xenon lights" are to be considered good or not.
On this internet page is claimed that all necessary parts and wiring are included and installation will take 45 min "DIY"...
I presume that it is well known that the OEM headlight units and lenses for xenon are different from the standard ones. Just take a look at the W210 E-class and the difference can be seen right away.
I don't know what the US DOT regulations are about these xenon lights, but in Europe you are only allowed to have them in combination with headlights washers/nozzles.
The total package mentioned on http://www.xenonhid.com does not contain any parts or wiring for the C-class headlight wipers.
For a C-class you will need additional wiring, waterpump, hose (or however it is spelled), (painted) trims underneath the headlight units, and wipers with nozzles.

Even after visiting this page with the cheap "xenon-like" bulbs, I do not consider it worth the effort (like others already wrote as well).
You can have the lights upgraded by the dealer....

greetingz

__________________
1990 300SL-24
1993 C250D with a minor 600+k kilometer
www.MBenzNL.com(the Netherlands)

There is another problem and that is that the color will be most likely yellow. This is a big issue for these HID retro kits. It isn't really the time, money, or whatever else you may or may not encounter. These HID bulbs are about $90/bulb, but they rarely burn out. Sure, there are advantages, but if seeing is the main point. Then, it may not be worth it. If you have E-code headlights or even if you have a H-4 bulb. You're seeing better than me. If you ask me, then get the E-code lights. The HID Kits come only with the electronics behind the light, not the lamp assembly itself, so you'll be using the same lens and reflectors, just brighter. If you need more info., I suggest you visit the Philips Automotive Lighting Forum. There is a lot of info on the subject and references also.

Personally I prefer the original Mercedes Xenon headlight units. I just installed a pair in my 94 S420. All I had to do is change the two fuses from 7.5amp to 15amp. Everything else just plugs in, very clean. You don't have to worry about cutting original wires or any water leaks.
I think they cost about $1600 for your car. If you don't want to spend that much you can always buy used ones. All you need is a lot of patience, because they are not easy to find. You can check with Potomac or sometimes you can find them on eBay.
If you want the Philips, I have good news for you. There was a guy selling them a few days ago on ebay. He paid $900 some for the kit, but is willing to let it go for $425. It has never been used. Check it out, item #535242962. They never reached his reserve, so I suggest emailing him if you are interested.
As for the difference, it's like night and day. They are awesome and I would never think about buying a new Benz without them.
My brother just bought a new C320 with sport package. He really wanted the Xenon's, but the waiting list was too long. If he wanted to install them now he would have to dish out $2000. He'll stick with the regular lights for now, which by the way don't look bad on the newer cars.