Headlights - again!

[ronk]

We are off to Europe twice this year, once in the 335xd and once in the 35is

Both cars have adaptive headlights and the 335 also has High Beam Assist.

I asked my local BMW main dealer if Beam Benders were needed - They said NO
I asked another BMW main dealer and they said YES
I asked BMW customer services they said I DON'T KNOW

You wouldn't think that it would be so difficult - I gave all three parties the Vin Numbers

[Kingfisher]

I asked the same question when I bought the car as I was taking it to France permanently ... was told they dip flat, which is what my Jaguar does and I didn't have to change anything on that one ... haven't been flashed at in the Z4 although I've only driven it a couple of times in the dark since bringing it over in November. Looking in the handbook it seems the lights do all sorts of tricks with lights from oncoming cars ... can't say I've noticed anything, all I know is I don't get flashed at and if anyone is going to flash at you for being blinded it'll be a Frenchman coming the other way! Wouldn't worry about it if I were you!

[ronk]

I have just been given the following info from a dealership (Carrs Bury St Edmunds)

Switch the Headlights on MANUALLY and not Auto -The flat beam will then be given.

Thats the first definitive answer I've been given.

[Nictrix]

You would think they would know if different headlights were fitted between cars that drive on the left or the right.

[ronk]

I've spoken with three different main dealers and two different BMW customer service agents and they have all given a different answer!

The only advice that I've been able to verify is the "manual switch on" advice - I looked at the beam pattern and it does have an effect - the beam pattern does change.

[ronk]

The answer from BMW:-

As both your vehicles have the adaptive headlight option fitted , no adaptors are required as the beam is flat and therefore will not dazzle oncoming traffic.

This is covered in your owner manuals also as below. Turn off adaptive lights

“Adaptive Headlights, When driving in a country where you drive on the opposite side of the road from the country the car is licensed, do not drive with the setting, otherwise this could cause a dazzling effect from the cornering light.”

Kind regards

[pvr]

If they do flash you in France, it is because there is a speed trap ahead

Just came back last night through France with my X5, never been flashed and drove every night in Europe during the last week.