Clear view - retrofit the headlight cleaning system!

Recently updated on October 11, 2023 at 03:09 am

[Update: 11.10.2023] This post was updatedto take more recent information into account. Headlight cleaning systems are a must for xenon headlights, and also offer a significant advantage for other headlights. Thanks to such a cleaning system, completely dirty headlights are a thing of the past and the driver can always rely on good headlight brightness. Provided that the headlight cleaning systems are installed optimally and function properly. By the way, there is more about headlights in our large overview "Headlights from halogen to LED to xenon - an indispensable companion"! So what should you know about retrofitting a headlight cleaning system?

Retrofitting a headlight cleaning system – why?

Anyone with his car Xenon pig launchers would like to equip, usually also needs a headlight cleaning system. However, there are vehicles that have installed such a system in combination with simple halogen headlights. The specialist dealers of various types of car often even offer retrofitting options and explain in detail what needs to be considered when retrofitting xenon headlights. As a rule, the seller will make an offer that includes all the necessary elements for retrofitting xenon headlights and the headlight cleaning system.

• Tip: Does the headlight cleaning system no longer work? Our contribution "Headlight cleaning system defective? Do you have to pay attention to this?“Helps to find the problem.

However, the price can be disproportionately high and tuning workshops could possibly offer a cheaper price. If you are a tuning enthusiast who doesn't necessarily want to use a headlight cleaning system in combination with xenon headlights, but rather wants to equip "normal" headlights with it, you will find countless videos on YouTube & Co. about how to install it yourself. It is also possible to order suitable item sets for retrofitting the headlight cleaning system from specialist retailers. However, installation on your own should only be carried out with specialist knowledge.

Pay even more attention to Xenon headlights

Who common 35 watt xenon headlights If you want to retrofit, you don't just need a headlight cleaning system. It may be necessary to either change or at least edit the entire front apron for installation. Finally, the spray nozzles have to be screwed on and if you want the stylish version with retractable nozzles, a corresponding recess must be cut out. Furthermore, one is automatic regulation the headlight range required for xenon headlights. When retrofitting, there are therefore a few things to consider that should be explained in more detail by a tuning expert or the knowledgeable employees of an authorized workshop. In case of doubt, the retrofitting of the essential elements should be carried out by an authorized workshop or a tuning workshop.

Tip: 25 watt xenon variant without SRA

But if you only want to retrofit the headlight cleaning system and do not want to install xenon headlights, you can buy a headlight cleaning system set from specialist retailers. The sets are available as retrofit kits and can even be purchased in universal versions. A set usually consists of the washing water tank, the spray nozzles, PVC hoses for water transport and a 12-volt pump as well as some small items. The windshield washer system set can be purchased with a convenient 1,4 liter tank, for example.

Retrofitting a headlight cleaning system and space?

Of course, it must be clarified beforehand whether the tank can even be installed for reasons of space. The 12 volt pump can connected to the circuit of the vehiclen be. When buying the set, attention should be paid to compact dimensions (197 mm x 128 mm x 105 mm, for example). The tank should be big enough. The PVC hose should also be long enough and not under tension. Variants with 1,7 m hose are available. The hose can often be shortened as required. The hose usually also includes a pressure switch, as well as the appropriate bracket and wiring. By the way, the cover cap of the SRA can also be modified!

Headlight cleaning system - what to look for?

The headlight cleaning system should work perfectly after installation. It is therefore important to purchase a variant that is suitable for the vehicle type when installing it yourself. Furthermore, the system should be able to be connected to the car’s electrical circuit. Customer reviews can help you find the right item. The information and legal requirements in Section 50 StVZO must be observed and adhered to if xenon light is to be introduced.

FAQ: Everything you need to know about retrofitting a headlight cleaning system

Is a headlight cleaning system TÜV relevant?

• Yes, especially if the low beam has a luminous flux of more than 2.000 lumens a headlight cleaning system is mandatory. This applies, for example, to headlights with 35 watt xenon.

Why is a cleaning system not mandatory for LED light?

• Some manufacturers design theirs LED or Xenon lights so that they remain below the limit of 2.000 lumens, so that no headlight cleaning system is required by law.

Is a headlight cleaning system generally mandatory?

• Yes, Because light-intensive headlights can cause more glare due to contamination. The law therefore requires a headlight cleaning system for such powerful headlights.

When did headlight cleaning systems become mandatory for cars?

• Since 1 April 2000 In Germany, a headlight cleaning system is required for motor vehicles with gas discharge lamps (e.g. xenon lights) for high and low beam, in accordance with the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations § 50 para.

Technical information about the headlight cleaning system

How is a headlight cleaning system structured?

• The headlight cleaning system works similarly to the windshield washer system: cleaning fluid is pumped from a tank and sprayed. Modern systems use high-pressure nozzles in front of the headlights; In newer models they are often hidden in the bumper and are extended when necessary.

How has the headlight cleaning system developed?

• From the late 1960s Headlight cleaning systems became widespread. Early models were often equipped with small windshield wipers that were moved by electric motors. For older vehicle models, such as B. from Rolls-Royce or Volvo, a cleaning method using washing liquid and mechanical dirt removal was sometimes used.

What types of headlight cleaning systems were there?

• Some models, like those from Rolls-Royce, Volvo, Saab, Simca 1308 and older models of Mercedes for Scandinavia, used bristles on the wiper arm instead of a rubber lip. Cleaning was carried out through a combination of washing liquid and mechanical dirt displacement.

We hope that you the info report on the topic / term Headlight washers (further names / keywords: windscreen washer system, headlight cleaning, headlight cleaning system, SRA, wash water nozzle) from the field of autotuning.

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