FAQ
TL;DR: For a pre-facelift Audi A4 B5, don’t expect a "mega effect" from cheap HID kits; one user argues they still beat +130% halogens and suggests swapping to stock bulbs for inspection. "Chinese xenon still gives better light than the mega philips osram bulb, etc. 130%." [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #16796827]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps A4 B5 owners decide if an HID retrofit is worth the light gain versus inspection, legal, and insurance risks.
Quick Facts
- Pre-facelift A4 B5 lamps often need polishing first; otherwise light output disappoints. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796546]
- Expect inspection challenges; some stations now charge even for negative results. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796591]
- Road checks can halt your trip and lead to towing, according to users. [Elektroda, paszczakq, post #16796631]
- Insurance disputes can arise over non-compliant mods; a user reports AC refusal over tire size alone. [Elektroda, paszczakq, post #16798678]
- Some drivers feel budget HID outshines +130% halogens, but regulations still apply. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #16796827]
Is it worth installing a xenon HID kit on a pre-facelift Audi A4 B5?
Often not. Owners report that without restoring headlamp clarity first, the lighting “mega effect” won’t appear. Pre-facelift lenses may be dull, so polish them before any upgrade. Even then, users warn you may face inspection issues that outweigh modest gains on old optics. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796546]
Will an aftermarket HID kit pass a vehicle inspection?
Users report frequent inspection problems with retrofit HID. One notes you can even be charged for a failed result now. If compliance matters, plan to refit halogens for the inspection or avoid the retrofit altogether. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796591]
Can police stop me and send the car off on a tow truck for retrofit HID?
Yes, a commenter warns roadside control can end your journey and lead to towing. Others add that you might be directed for immediate inspection instead. Either scenario disrupts travel and risks additional costs. [Elektroda, paszczakq, post #16796631]
How do insurers treat lighting modifications like HID retrofits?
One user reports an AC payout refusal over a tire size mismatch. That story illustrates a risk: if a non-compliant part contributes to a claim dispute, you may face denial or blame. Keep your lighting compliant to reduce that exposure. [Elektroda, paszczakq, post #16798678]
Are cheap “Chinese” HID kits reliable in the long run?
Owners caution that modules can fail and carry dubious markings. Expect inconsistent longevity and potential part failures. If a ballast or igniter quits, you could be stranded or face fault tracing across multiple modules. [Elektroda, szymitsu21, post #16796618]
Do budget HID kits really beat +130% halogen bulbs?
One experienced user insists budget HID still gives better light than premium +130% halogens. Quote: “Chinese xenon still gives better light than the mega philips osram bulb, etc. 130%.” Perception varies, and legality remains separate from brightness. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #16796827]
My A4 B5 has short projector lenses—does an HID kit still make sense?
If your lenses are short or swapped, output may remain limited. The thread starter questioned whether the effort makes sense with such optics. Evaluate lens condition and design before investing in a kit. [Elektroda, agencikkk, post #16796562]
What does “pre-lift” (pre-facelift) mean for these headlights?
It refers to earlier A4 B5 lamps that often haze with age. A user advises polishing them to a shine before expecting any improvement from HID or halogens. Clean optics first, then reassess. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796546]
What’s the real risk during roadside checks with retrofitted HID?
One member says you could be ordered to a first inspection immediately, unless an unusually lenient officer appears. That means lost time and potential costs, even without towing. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796805]
Is swapping back to halogens for inspection a workable tactic?
A user suggests inspecting on stock bulbs, then reinstalling HID afterward. Quote: “Inspect it, give an ordinary bulb and then fly…” This reflects owner practice, not legal endorsement. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #16796827]
What’s an edge case I should consider before retrofitting HID?
If an accident occurs and an expert notes a non-compliant mod, you could face compensation issues. One user’s example involved tires, highlighting how minor deviations can trigger denial. [Elektroda, paszczakq, post #16798678]
How can I minimize hassle if I still install a kit?
Three-step approach:
- Keep halogen bulbs handy and plan to refit them for inspections.
- Verify aim after any swap to avoid attention.
- Document your setup for quick reversal if required.
This mirrors user practice, not legal advice. [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #16796827]
Will officers always ignore retrofit HID if the beam looks clean?
No guarantee. One user believes some officers may “turn a blind eye,” but others note inspections or towing can follow. Assume enforcement risk remains even with tidy beams. “Let’s face it, millions … fly Chinese.” [Elektroda, Ireneo, post #16796827]
If I decide to proceed anyway, what expectation should I set?
Expect modest real-world gains on aged optics, plus recurring legal and inspection friction. Another user concludes warnings were “not needed,” accepting the risks. Make a conscious, eyes-open decision. [Elektroda, agencikkk, post #16834221]
Bottom line: HID kit or high-performance halogens?
HID may appear brighter to some users, yet it brings legal, inspection, and reliability trade-offs. Upgraded halogens avoid many compliance issues, especially if lenses are restored first. [Elektroda, nici, post #16796546]
