Headlamp unit please help

Discussion in 'Problems, Fixes, Tips...' started by Jemlins, Mar 10, 2018.

  1. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2013
    Location:
    Notts
    Car(s):
    Copen 2007
    my much loved Copen failed its MOT today because they said the headlight unit couldn’t be adjusted to alter the beam.

    They couldn’t get parts and I’ve tried a few car parts companies.

    I’m so gutted as everything else passed fine. They think the unit might be deteriorating. Headlights work fine just cant be adjusted.

    Are there any recommended part specialists for Copens? So gutted I can’t drive little Hugo, all for a headlamp unit.

    Any help would be gratefully received.

    Thanks

    Jem
     
  2. Vin Petrol

    Vin Petrol Copenworld Regular

    Joined:
    Jan 21, 2017
    Location:
    Stockport
    Car(s):
    2004 0.7 Copen
    I haven't had to do mine, but I'm sure I read somewhere that it's just a screw at the back of the unit to adjust? If the thread is worn, that's an easy fix with some epoxy, did they say why they couldn't adjust it?
    Is it one side or both sides?


    Adam is breaking 2 copens at the moment, he probably has a second hand one at a very reasonable price. breaking copens x2

    As for new, SG Petch has them for £183...each. Headlamps Daihatsu Copen 2003-2007 659 Turbo 67bhp PETROL
     
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  3. Salieri

    Salieri Copenworld Veteran

    Joined:
    Jun 19, 2012
    Location:
    Germany
    Car(s):
    Used to have a White Copen, but I sold it in 2023
    It failed MOT because there is no switch in the cockpit to adjust the headlights or they couldn't adjust the headlights directly at the headlight?
    If its the first tell them there is no switch because its not needed :D
    And there are definitely adjuster screws on the headlights itself
     
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  4. BRUCE REYNOLDS (GTR)

    BRUCE REYNOLDS (GTR) Copenworld Member

    Joined:
    Jan 12, 2014
    Location:
    london
    Car(s):
    copen 1.3
    Jemlins…

    The headlamp is definitely adjustable i had to replace my front bumper and indicator/spot lamp unit after a small prang... i had to readjust the headlamp to take into account the impact on the unit.. The workshop guide explains the adjustment procedure..
     
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  5. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2013
    Location:
    Notts
    Car(s):
    Copen 2007
    They said they couldn't adjust the beam. I questioned them on this and they said they thought the unit was corroded so it couldn't move. So confusing. They'd tried to find a suppler for parts and then couldn't find anyone. I'll ring them again today.

    Thanks for your reply : )
     
  6. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2013
    Location:
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    Car(s):
    Copen 2007
     
  7. Vin Petrol

    Vin Petrol Copenworld Regular

    Joined:
    Jan 21, 2017
    Location:
    Stockport
    Car(s):
    2004 0.7 Copen
    They claim a plastic headlight housing has corroded? I think you may need a new garage...
     
  8. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2013
    Location:
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    Car(s):
    Copen 2007
    They said it was something to do with the reflector inside not projecting the light..?
     
  9. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2013
    Location:
    Notts
    Car(s):
    Copen 2007
    Thank you so much for your reply, I found some on SG Petch too. The guy at the garage said the reflector inside isn't projecting the light. I had the most confusing conversation with him to find out exactly what the problem is.
    I'll get in touch with Adam too. Superstar thank you!
     
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  10. Vin Petrol

    Vin Petrol Copenworld Regular

    Joined:
    Jan 21, 2017
    Location:
    Stockport
    Car(s):
    2004 0.7 Copen
    Wait, you don't have HID fitted do you? Otherwise I'd really say go to another garage, there's nothing complicated about headlights unless they're deliberately trying to waffle nonsense.

    What did the actual MOT failure say?
     
    Last edited: Mar 12, 2018
  11. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2013
    Location:
    Notts
    Car(s):
    Copen 2007
    No, no HID. It just said failed and the reason passenger headlamp.

    When I questioned them they said the projected beam image was incorrect, probably caused by corrosion.
     
  12. Vin Petrol

    Vin Petrol Copenworld Regular

    Joined:
    Jan 21, 2017
    Location:
    Stockport
    Car(s):
    2004 0.7 Copen
    Ah right, so they say the mirrored housing around the bulb is corroded and not directing the beam correctly.
    Might be worth trying to clean the front if it looks murky, especially if you've had your car cleaned commercially since not all car washes keep the wax off the lights.
    An abrasive polish or even toothpaste will work to clear any hazing on the lens that might be distorting the beam pattern.

    That's feasible though, I was confused by the adjustment bit and thought they were trying to rip you off.

    You can check your beam image against a wall if you wanted to see if for yourself, that's all they do at the test.
     
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  13. Jemlins

    Jemlins Copenworld Newbie

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    Location:
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    Copen 2007
    Just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who replied to my post :)

    Copenworld is such a great, supportive and helpful place! Managed to get my car sorted, and massive thanks to @Vin Petrol for suggesting getting parts from @jennings1992 - managed to get a new head lamp and it’s passed its MOT. Happy days all round
     
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  14. Blaine

    Blaine Copenworld Newbie

    Joined:
    Aug 1, 2021
    Location:
    Canada
    Car(s):
    Diahatsu Copen
     
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