Front Headlight Replacement

The factory halogen headlights had become so clouded internally that the cutoff line became blurred, and the low beam light was dangerously dim.

The decision was made to replace them with bi-xenon lights from a facelift model.

The following alternatives were considered*:

Cleaning and polishing the lenses inside and out, restoring the internal varnish coating, replacing the lens with a reflector for Hella Premium (1BL 009 999-001, halogen) ~ 607 USD**
Halogen headlights from a salvage yard (intact, clean, left-hand drive) ~ 533 USD
Xenon headlights with ignition blocks from a salvage yard (intact, clean, left-hand drive) ~ 760 USD

*prices include delivery costs

**cost also includes fuel for a trip to Minsk and hotel stay

Unacceptable options:

Switching halogen to bi-LED – the light source would not match the headlight marking, making it impossible to pass vehicle inspection; most modules are not certified for use in the CIS
Switching to xenon modules – for the same reasons
Headlights from right-hand drive vehicles – potential price benefits are offset by the need for a trip to the capital for modifications