Xenon Headlight load sensor

[neilm]

While my C4 was in PSR Automotive yesterday having new rear Contis and a full geometry reset (thanks Paul for a superb job- the car feels so much better!) it was noted that a sensor on the wishbone for the Xenon Headlight levelling was broken.

I can't find much info on these beasties nor how much it would cost to repair/replace.

Has anyone else had a similar issue?

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

It is usually the mounting bracket on the wishbone or the plastic link which breaks, and they are available separately (£2.22 and £13.51 respectively). If the sensor itself has broken, these are £46.70.

Pic of front sensor:

 

[neilm]

Not too bad then, in the great scheme of things!

Thanks once again for your speed of reply and encylopaedic knowledge

 

[996Martyn]

i've just installed a Xenon kit for my dipped beam, but i didn't have this level sensor. Can i ask a really stupid question and ask what does this sensor do and should i get one?

Thanks
Martyn

 

[Nick_USA]

ORIGINAL: 996Martyn

i've just installed a Xenon kit for my dipped beam, but i didn't have this level sensor. Can i ask a really stupid question and ask what does this sensor do and should i get one?

Thanks
Martyn

Senses changes in the suspension height and compensates the headlight beam accordingly.

If your xenon kit was the Porsche one it does not come with the sensor.

 

[neilm]

It is a legal requirement that new cars with factory installed Xenon headlight must have an automatic levelling system that prevents the risk of dazzling other drivers, as the lights are around 30% brighter than halogens. This still requires the initial levelling to be correct (and it often isn't)

It is not a requirement for aftermarket fitting, though it probably ought to be! I'm not sure if the standard halogen models have a manual adjuster so it is imperative that the lights are aimed correctly.

At least with most Porsches, the luggage compartment in the front means that the lights will tend to point down when fully loaded, which is rather safer for oncoming drivers!