Feeble Headlights On 56 Reg Rav

[Bri1892]

I bought a 56 reg Rav4 Diesel a few months ago, and what a cracking car it is ( first Toyota I've had in 30 years of motoring). However, I'm working in rural Cumbria at the moment going to remote farms and the like, often driving down twisty dark lanes with hidden floods etc.

The car has been brilliant so far, but I find even full beam doesn't light up the road ahead as well as I'd like.

I can't afford to fit new headlamp clusters, and wondered if anyone has any suggestions ? Maybe better bulbs ? ( specify which ones please) or other suggestions.

Cheers,

Bri.

[FROSTYBALLS]

Two things you can consider:

1) cleaning the headlights - see http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/topic/146892-headlight-cleaning/?hl=%2Bclean+%2Bheadlights#entry1281537

2) fit upgrade bulbs like Osram Nightbreaker Unlimiteds (think your car may have HB4 bulbs - but check) - http://www.amazon.co.uk/OSRAM-NIGHT-BREAKER-UNLIMITED-Headlight/dp/B00FQ8ANTE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414524215&sr=8-1&keywords=hb4+bulbs

[gjnorthall]

This model has separate bulbs for main and dipped beam so works out expensive to upgrade both. Many owners upgrade just the dipped beam bulb.

[Bri1892]

Thanks guys, that's really helpful.

I've checked out the Osram bulbs at £25 the pair, well worth it.

Plus the link to previous threads, with tips on cleaning the lenses etc., which I'll try first.

Bri

[gjnorthall]

The lenses on the 4.3 model don't tend to go opaque / yellow - unlike previous models. Cleaning opaque lenses involves abrading a layer of plastic on the face of the lens - best avoided if the lens is essentially OK.

The headlamps on your model have levelling adjustment - check that the beams aren't set too low.

[Heidfirst]

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/accessories-tyres/76760/car-bulbs-2014-halogen-headlight-bulb-reviews