Easiest (economical) way to upgrade stock (non-HID) C32 headlights?
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,645
Likes: 2
From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Easiest (economical) way to upgrade stock (non-HID) C32 headlights?
Hey!
My 2002 C32 has the "bottom-of-the-line" stock headlamps, which have never been very bright, but which are now even worse as the lenses are clouding/yellowing.
What is the easiest way to upgrade the stock (non-HID) C32 headlights. I would like to go HID, but I do not want the "neon blue" look of some aftermarket kits. Is there any DIY way to do this without spending tons of $$$.
BTW, before you flame me, I searched the (many) threads on C32 headlights, and ended up more confused than before.
Any specific advice on how to go from the "10 candlepower" stock headlamps to HID without breaking the bank would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
My 2002 C32 has the "bottom-of-the-line" stock headlamps, which have never been very bright, but which are now even worse as the lenses are clouding/yellowing.
What is the easiest way to upgrade the stock (non-HID) C32 headlights. I would like to go HID, but I do not want the "neon blue" look of some aftermarket kits. Is there any DIY way to do this without spending tons of $$$.
BTW, before you flame me, I searched the (many) threads on C32 headlights, and ended up more confused than before.
Any specific advice on how to go from the "10 candlepower" stock headlamps to HID without breaking the bank would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada
2002 C32 AMG
You can buy a set of HID bulbs and ballasts for under $100 on ebay. Hook it up to your stock non HID headlights. This is the cheapset easiest way. However, they will be bright, but your beam pattern will be horrible. Basically it will be brighter but you'll blind the crap out of everyone driving infront of you.
The second cheapest is to buy Depo HID projector headlights, around $250-$300 on ebay for a pair. Most of the kits come with cheap HID bulbs and ballasts. Depo's quality isn't the greatest, but they look decent, have proper projectors and the beam pattern is decent too. Depo's quality is realyl hit or miss. I got a good set and haven't had any complaints so far.
You can also buy a used set of early model HID lights with reflectors (no projectors) which is what I had in my C32. I no longer need them, so make me an offer for them if you want. They come with oem ballasts mounted to the headlights, all you need are the HID bulbs.
Most expensive option is to get the eurospec OEM bixenons. They are amazing, you can find them used for $700-$1100 typically without bulbs or ballasts. Those are pretty much all your options right there.
BTW, 4300K is the most stock colour, more white than stock, so it's like a yellowish white. Most common aftermarket colour is 6000K which is whiteish blue.
I think the best option for you is to go with the Depo's. A lot of people will tell you they're crap. They're honestly fine, obviously not mercedes quality, but they function peroperly and look good.
good luck,
Bryan
The second cheapest is to buy Depo HID projector headlights, around $250-$300 on ebay for a pair. Most of the kits come with cheap HID bulbs and ballasts. Depo's quality isn't the greatest, but they look decent, have proper projectors and the beam pattern is decent too. Depo's quality is realyl hit or miss. I got a good set and haven't had any complaints so far.
You can also buy a used set of early model HID lights with reflectors (no projectors) which is what I had in my C32. I no longer need them, so make me an offer for them if you want. They come with oem ballasts mounted to the headlights, all you need are the HID bulbs.
Most expensive option is to get the eurospec OEM bixenons. They are amazing, you can find them used for $700-$1100 typically without bulbs or ballasts. Those are pretty much all your options right there.
BTW, 4300K is the most stock colour, more white than stock, so it's like a yellowish white. Most common aftermarket colour is 6000K which is whiteish blue.
I think the best option for you is to go with the Depo's. A lot of people will tell you they're crap. They're honestly fine, obviously not mercedes quality, but they function peroperly and look good.
good luck,
Bryan
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 450
Likes: 1
From: Los Angeles
2005 C55
http://www.bekkers.com/Merchant2/mer...=mhlightcclass
Since you mentioned your lenses are clouding just replace the whole unit. Or you can open them up to clean the lense and get upgraded bulbs from hoen.com.
Since you mentioned your lenses are clouding just replace the whole unit. Or you can open them up to clean the lense and get upgraded bulbs from hoen.com.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,645
Likes: 2
From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Thanks for the info
Thanks for the info. Could someone please explain to me the hierarchy of headlights and how they differ from one another?
Halogen
Projector
HID
Xenon
Bi-Xenon
I notice that the Depos are available with or without Xenon bulbs. Which Depos would be the best "plug and play" option to replace the zero candlepower, non-Xenon headlights in my C32?
Again, thanks for all the info. I never knew that something so seemingly simple as headlights was so complex! I guess that is life, isn't it?
Cheers.
Halogen
Projector
HID
Xenon
Bi-Xenon
I notice that the Depos are available with or without Xenon bulbs. Which Depos would be the best "plug and play" option to replace the zero candlepower, non-Xenon headlights in my C32?
Again, thanks for all the info. I never knew that something so seemingly simple as headlights was so complex! I guess that is life, isn't it?
Cheers.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 4,165
Likes: 4
PLAID
http://www.bekkers.com/Merchant2/mer...=mhlightcclass
Since you mentioned your lenses are clouding just replace the whole unit. Or you can open them up to clean the lense and get upgraded bulbs from hoen.com.
Since you mentioned your lenses are clouding just replace the whole unit. Or you can open them up to clean the lense and get upgraded bulbs from hoen.com.
Bad address or link!!!
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada
2002 C32 AMG
http://www.bekkers.com/Merchant2/mer...=mhlightcclass
Since you mentioned your lenses are clouding just replace the whole unit. Or you can open them up to clean the lense and get upgraded bulbs from hoen.com.
Since you mentioned your lenses are clouding just replace the whole unit. Or you can open them up to clean the lense and get upgraded bulbs from hoen.com.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada
2002 C32 AMG
Thanks for the info. Could someone please explain to me the hierarchy of headlights and how they differ from one another?
Halogen
Projector
HID
Xenon
Bi-Xenon
I notice that the Depos are available with or without Xenon bulbs. Which Depos would be the best "plug and play" option to replace the zero candlepower, non-Xenon headlights in my C32?
Again, thanks for all the info. I never knew that something so seemingly simple as headlights was so complex! I guess that is life, isn't it?
Cheers.
Halogen
Projector
HID
Xenon
Bi-Xenon
I notice that the Depos are available with or without Xenon bulbs. Which Depos would be the best "plug and play" option to replace the zero candlepower, non-Xenon headlights in my C32?
Again, thanks for all the info. I never knew that something so seemingly simple as headlights was so complex! I guess that is life, isn't it?
Cheers.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,040
Likes: 125
From: Atlanta Metro
Current: C217 V12TT AMG Previously: C55 AMG, SL65 AMG
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,645
Likes: 2
From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
This is what I should've done the first time. https://mbworld.org/forums/c32-amg-c...ml#post4426599
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 12
From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
Vomit-
I’ve a pair of perfectly serviceable OE frosty xenon headlamps taking up space in the spares bin.
PM a shipping address and they’re yours gratis. How’s that for economical? Do avoid Depo junk in your C32.
reference
Senior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 362
Likes: 0
From: San Diego, CA
2002 C32 AMG
I recommend these other then OEM.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/01-07...ht_16272wt_939
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/01-07...ht_16272wt_939
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada
2002 C32 AMG
I recommend these other then OEM.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/01-07...ht_16272wt_939
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/01-07...ht_16272wt_939
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada
2002 C32 AMG
Nothing! I also have Depos but they seem to be frowned upon on this forum. What a lot of people don't realize is that people who own C32's aren't the sort of people who also buy SL55's and C63's. It's an old car and it's really quite cheap to buy considering what it is. Who's going to spend $1000+ on a set of OEM bi-xenons on a car that's worth 10-15K? The Depo's are good for what they are. They work well, fitment is acceptable, and they look great. They are by no means MB quality, but for the price, why would they be? I'd rather blow $1000+ on suspension/tire upgrades. Lights are mostly cosmetic. The Depo's beam pattern is nice.
Hardcore Merc fans who are probably middle aged will settle for nothing but the best. However, for the rest of us younger guys who aren't as well established, we tend to go for the cheaper stuff. If money wasn't a factor, I wouldn't be driving a C32. I'd have a black series.
Hardcore Merc fans who are probably middle aged will settle for nothing but the best. However, for the rest of us younger guys who aren't as well established, we tend to go for the cheaper stuff. If money wasn't a factor, I wouldn't be driving a C32. I'd have a black series.
Last edited by Autotechnica; Jan 8, 2011 at 10:40 AM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,645
Likes: 2
From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
In spite of your admonition, you’re incorrect. 
Vomit-
I’ve a pair of perfectly serviceable OE frosty xenon headlamps taking up space in the spares bin.
PM a shipping address and they’re yours gratis. How’s that for economical? Do avoid Depo junk in your C32.
reference
Vomit-
I’ve a pair of perfectly serviceable OE frosty xenon headlamps taking up space in the spares bin.
PM a shipping address and they’re yours gratis. How’s that for economical? Do avoid Depo junk in your C32.
reference
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,645
Likes: 2
From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Nothing! I also have Depos but they seem to be frowned upon on this forum. What a lot of people don't realize is that people who own C32's aren't the sort of people who also buy SL55's and C63's. It's an old car and it's really quite cheap to buy considering what it is. Who's going to spend $1000+ on a set of OEM bi-xenons on a car that's worth 10-15K? The Depo's are good for what they are. They work well, fitment is acceptable, and they look great. They are by no means MB quality, but for the price, why would they be? I'd rather blow $1000+ on suspension/tire upgrades. Lights are mostly cosmetic. The Depo's beam pattern is nice.
Hardcore Merc fans who are probably middle aged will settle for nothing but the best. However, for the rest of us younger guys who aren't as well established, we tend to go for the cheaper stuff. If money wasn't a factor, I wouldn't be driving a C32. I'd have a black series.
Hardcore Merc fans who are probably middle aged will settle for nothing but the best. However, for the rest of us younger guys who aren't as well established, we tend to go for the cheaper stuff. If money wasn't a factor, I wouldn't be driving a C32. I'd have a black series.
The only way headlights would give me a $1,000.00 worth of joy is if I were to die and return to life as a road critter who avoids nighttime roadkill death because some C32 owner bought the best possible headlights and was able to swerve to avoid me.
MBworld Guru
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 22,058
Likes: 18
From: Diamond Bar, CA
W206 PHEV AMG
nothing's wrong with DEPO for the price you are paying. some ppl just don't like how the projectors on the DEPO light up.
for me tho i had my bi-xenon installed in 04, so i didn't mind how much i paid plus the fact my car came with xenon so i didn't want to loose the auto-leveling feature. i wouldn't mind DEPOs if i didn't already had xenon.
only running the HID kit on the w204 and it works great, but the 204 does already have a pretty nice projector.
for me tho i had my bi-xenon installed in 04, so i didn't mind how much i paid plus the fact my car came with xenon so i didn't want to loose the auto-leveling feature. i wouldn't mind DEPOs if i didn't already had xenon.
only running the HID kit on the w204 and it works great, but the 204 does already have a pretty nice projector.
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 12
From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
Nothing! I also have Depos but they seem to be frowned upon on this forum. What a lot of people don't realize is that people who own C32's aren't the sort of people who also buy SL55's and C63's. It's an old car and it's really quite cheap to buy considering what it is. Who's going to spend $1000+ on a set of OEM bi-xenons on a car that's worth 10-15K? The Depo's are good for what they are. They work well, fitment is acceptable, and they look great. They are by no means MB quality, but for the price, why would they be? I'd rather blow $1000+ on suspension/tire upgrades. Lights are mostly cosmetic. The Depo's beam pattern is nice.
Hardcore Merc fans who are probably middle aged will settle for nothing but the best. However, for the rest of us younger guys who aren't as well established, we tend to go for the cheaper stuff. If money wasn't a factor, I wouldn't be driving a C32. I'd have a black series.
Hardcore Merc fans who are probably middle aged will settle for nothing but the best. However, for the rest of us younger guys who aren't as well established, we tend to go for the cheaper stuff. If money wasn't a factor, I wouldn't be driving a C32. I'd have a black series.
Frittered away more disposable income on cars than a sane enthusiast should. Have never driven a stock one during my stewardship. Those receipts have been duly filed away for deductibility purposes, never to be referred to again. A cursory search will confirm the subtle upgrades on my lowly C. “What have you done to yours?” That it’s stock-appearing to the untrained eye only adds to the smug pleasure derived from beating up on other marques during closed course events.
Far be it from me to dissuade anyone from fitting off-Broadway headlamps to his machine. Seems peculiar that by your own admission “you will notice the quality drop when you install them.” Not a slight on you personally, likely a different mindset is all. Electronically inclined members have upgraded budget housings to OE-quality projectors with favorable results…https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...ro-thread.html
edit:
Trust you’ve already received a message regarding your contemplated wheel purchase from other members. Small world, huh?
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 12
From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 2,136
Likes: 6
From: GA
2016 Chevrolet SS, 2006 Cadillac STS-V
I would suggest getting some of the face-lift clear lens stock headlights, plenty of people have changed their's out so there are plenty of real MB parts out there. I was impressed with the output of the stock housings even with the halogen bulbs. Then if you want a little more, buy an HID kit but get them in 4300k bulb temp so they won't have the blue color to them.
Depos are junk, I've never been impressed with them on any car I've had them on.
Depos are junk, I've never been impressed with them on any car I've had them on.
