I was wondering if anyone has retrofitted bixenon projectors into a facelifted (2007-2009) W211. I'm particularly interested in knowing if any of you used a projector other than the E55.

I have a 2008 E350 equipped with halogen headlights. Initially, I was dead-set on using OEM bixenon headlight assemblies. However, not only are they quite expensive, but apparently it's not as simple as plugging them in and having the xenon = present feature activated. From my research, there's about 3 features that need to be activated and an additional ground needs to be wired to each headlight. I was unable to find any specific information on this, so I have given up. In addition, I have learned that the projector performance is rather mediocre, which has made my wallet tighten up.

My new plan is to get new OEM halogen headlights or in the alternative, use my existing ones, buy Depo headlights and replace the lens covers, and retrofit bixenon projectors. So far, my options seem to be:
1) OEM E55 projectors;
2) EvoX-R (E55 replicas by Morimoto/TRS); or
3) Use my halogen projectors with rebased HID bulbs.

My considerations are:

E55: I was happy to learn that the OEM E55 projectors are a straight bolt-on without additional modification needed. However, further research indicates a lackluster performance compared to other alternatives, and that the bowls have a tendency to burn quickly.

I also read there's an upgraded version of the E55, but I could not find any info as to what the improvements are, what years and models of vehicles they are used in, or any other identifiable characteristics to distinguish them from the gen 1 E55's.

EvoX-R: These are E55 replicas, and thus are also apparently a bolt-on application. Many claim they are a noticeable improvement over OEM E55's however, many also noted a disappointing beam throw (mostly width, some mentioned a short forward light distance, and others mentioned streaking). Also, there was mention that the relay is positioned differently, causing fitment issues (again, no specific details). Anyone know if the narrow/short beam is greater than, equal to or less than OEM E55's?

Halogen Projectors: That's exactly what I have right now - rebased HID bulbs by Morimoto. Many have said the halogen E55 projectors are the same as the xenons (identical bowls), sans the bixenon option. I must say that although running aftermarket HID bulbs is an improvement over the halogen bulbs, this option leaves a lot to be desired. I seriously doubt it's the same projector design (unless the Fresnel lens really reduces output that much). Thus why I'm looking for alternatives.

Other alternatives: Have any of you used a different projector that the above? Which projectors? What is your experience with performance, degree of modification required and difficulty of fitment?

Those of you that have used the E55's or EvoX-R's, please let me know your experiences and any input on the above issues.

Ballasts: I am currently using a Morimoto kit (XB35) on my halogen projectors, but I'm a little disappointed in the amount of time it takes the capsules to warm up to full intensity. After the retrofit, I'd like to use OEM ballasts & igniters if possible. However, it appears the facelifted W211 all have the AFS circuitry and thus make take me back to square 1 as if retrofitting OEM bixenon headlights.

Apparently, the pre-facelift W211 uses a different harness plug on the ballasts and thus may not be a viable option. What ballasts have you all used?

Thanks in advance for any input on the above. Sorry for the long-winded post, but I want to be as specific as possible.

Output shots would be nice

 

There is another thread 3 down from yours...doing exactly this. While it is a 2005...the headlight assembly (IIRC) is the same.

https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...der-150-a.html

 

I read that thread - thanks. That's the one that led me to the EvoX-R option. However, I'm looking for a little more in-depth technical feedback as to performance, comparisons, etc. Also, the pre-facelift W211 arguably uses a different harness plug and different OEM ballast. I still haven't determined whether the facelift W211 uses the same halogen projector as the pre-facelift. That's why I'm looking for feedback from people who have actually done this on a 2007-2009 W211.


[EDIT]: I should clarify that I read that on the facelift models, the bixenon OEM projectors are different than the E55 projectors. I don't know if the halogen headlights still use the halogen E55 projectors.

 

bUMp


Really??? No facelift owners have retrofitted???

 

Did you do it after all? I have the bixenon headlights with autolevel without afs and I want to put the evox-r 2.0 in but I'm not sure if they will fit.

 

Yeah, I ended up doing it. Well worth it the improvement in light output is huge! The Evo-XR 2.0 is a direct bolt-in, you won't have to cut or modify anything to mount them in there.

Here's a combined write-up which includes mine and other members' retrofit process: Evo-XR Retrofit

 

Thank you!

 

You're welcome. Let us know how it turns out!