Inspired by the iconic BMC Mini, BMW put Frank Stephenson in charge of creating an entirely new, technologically advanced version. His team’s original clay design mock-up was so good, the board members told him not to change a thing (and this in spite of the fact that Frank had resolved to using an empty beer can when he realised that the clay model lacked an exhaust pipe; hence the prominent exhaust pipe seen in production cars today). This first generation became incredibly popular and remained in production 2000-2006. But the lighting technology used in this car is more than 20 years old today.
Factory-fitted options included H7/H7 halogen and D2R/H9 or D2S/H9 single xenon (the latter two for pre-facelift and facelift models respectively).
The halogen version features an H7 reflector that produces an average light beam even when new. In many cases, its light output has been further compromised as bulb heat and general ageing cause the reflective layer to peel off.
The single-xenon setup features a 2.5-inch projector, designed in the late 90s. These projectors are known to lose their reflective layer right to the point where they become black inside, causing dangerously low light output.
Needless to say, buying new or used original headlights for your Mini Cooper R50 R52 R53 is not recommended. But there is fortunately no need for that. Whether your car was factory-fitted with H7/H7 halogen, D2R/H9 or D2S/H9 single xenon headlights, there are upgrade kits that will fit inside your existing headlights.
These complete retrofit kits not only provide you with superior brightness and durability; they are also more affordable than average Mini Cooper R50 R52 R53 xenon headlights with bulbs and ballasts, and since all components are brand new, they come with a 2-year warranty. Additional benefits over OEM headlights include Canbus-proof designs and effortless halogen-to-xenon conversions. What’s more, the levelling systems will work without any adjustments to the headlight connectors, and you can use any ballasts that you might already own to save further on xenon upgrades.
No matter which retrofit upgrade kit you pick, you will improve the light output considerably, making for safer and more enjoyable driving. And, of course, your Mini Cooper R50 R52 R53 will look awesome with the luxurious bright light of the latest xenon technology.
