2005 05 Avensis Headlight Lens

[Wingnut 001]

I know there is an issue with the effectiveness of the 2005 model's headlights when dipped but I've noticed that the outer dipped 'lens' of my headlight units are milky-looking. Question is is this normal or have they gone opaque due to over-heating/fault in design. I've bought a pair of Philips Xtreme Vision bulbs for the dipped lights but if the lenses are goosed then it seems a bit daft changing the bulbs when the whole thing needs replacing.

If it is the lenses that are duff, can you change them without changing the whole unit and do you have to take the bumper off to do it?

[duncanda]

Hi Wingnut

Assuming that the 2005 model headlamps are the same as the 2003 model, then I think the lenses are glass, so it seems odd that they have gone opaque. I replaced my headlamp units recently and still have the old ones in the garage and I'll have a look at them tomorrow to see if the lenses can be replaced, but I don't think they can. To replace the headlamp units you need to remove the bumper. I have a pdf document showing how to do it if you need it?

[Jamesbelfast]

For obvious safety reasions most if not all headlight lenses are now plastic. Discolouration is a big problem. Try polishiong a small area with brasso or T-Cut and see if it improves. If is clears then it may be worth polishing the lens. Go to Youtube and search for polish headlights - there are loads of video clips on the topic.

[duncanda]

For clarification, do you mean the outer plastic headlamp cover is opaque or the projector lenses in front of the dipped bulb? If it's the former then try what Jamesbelfast has suggested. If it's the latter, then I've checked with my old headlamp units and you won't be able to replace the projector lenses. You'll need to buy new units. I bought and replaced mine for half the price I could find elsewhere.

[Wingnut 001]

Thanks for the info all.

It's the lens and not the headlight outer Shell thats opaque - I suppose I could try looking at other cars lights and comparing but if its a common trait then they'll as likely be the same. Just dont fancy shelling out full wack for ones from Mr T. Don't know what the oem ones are like but I may give them a go.

[Wingnut 001]

Hi Wingnut

.......... To replace the headlamp units you need to remove the bumper. I have a pdf document showing how to do it if you need it?

That would be a great help, thank you

[duncanda]

Hi Wingnut

I've hopefully managed to attach the necessary documents. Good luck.

LIGHTING.pdf