DRL thread resurrection

[sapphireblack]

Starting a new thread on this as i'd like to press on and fit some now

It seems the OEM/Philips kit is a five lamp module http://shop.philips.com/store?Action=Di ... =234594800

The slightly smaller four module unit is this one http://shop.philips.com/store/rpeeub2c/ ... .234594400

On an E53 the smaller unit looks easier to fit physically and more sensible in the lower air intake. But, my question and search for help is, how to route the cables? I've looked pretty hard, though not yet exhaustively and there seems no (easy) way to elevate the cables from behind the lower mesh without having to perhaps remove the front bumper cover, not an option really, or, possibly both headlamps

So, has anyone delved into these areas for other tasks and can offer some tips? I do not want to rip the car apart to acheive this, though it would be nice/good to have them.

[Sanj]

SB - so close to pulling the trigger on this too. Kept your eBay links as well. I just need to find time to look and see if the lights will look good or just out of place.

These Philips one's are quite dear too. Would they be this kind of price because they really will be proper bight LEDs (unlike most I see on the road), giving a more OEM look?

Might try a photo edit and post up for opinions. Priority will be location, I'll worry about routing it afterwards.

[sapphireblack]

Location for me is sorted 'cos it's an obvious place, not to say a legal place to meet regulations. I want to do this but not if the work involved is disproportionate.

There are indeed numerous cheaper kits on eBay but i'd rather buy Philips. They're approved by BMW and look super bright, which is of course the whole point.

[shadrack]

im thinking of this mod soon, i cant remember which ones i saw on ebay but they had some kind of module so they turned off in the dark! am i right in thinking on some of the new mercs the drls are still on in the bumper at night when the headlights are on?

[Sanj]

Yes - they either ALWAYS on or off. Never change should you put the headlights on late evening...

SB you going for the bumper where the PDC's are?

Not sure where to go on the face-lift???

[sapphireblack]

I can't see whats behind the PDC areas without bumper removal which is a pita, so the lower air intake outer edges for me. The non available BMW kit shows that as the factory's intention too as the mesh section was replaced within the kit, (suggesting it is a bumper off scenario?) which i can't get and would cost even more if i could.

I am still a little baffled at this time to work out where to run the cables though. I've had another look while in the garage since posting last and really cant see any way to access the watertight/sealed off areas surrounding the lamps etc

[sapphireblack]

Paid my dealer a visit earlier today and according to one of the friendly techies, to fit any DRLs properly it does require the bumper to be removed So that's a little mod that won't be happening anytime soon

[shadrack]

why just get the bumper off!!

[sapphireblack]

[quote=""shadrack""]why just get the bumper off!![/quote]


Ever done that yourself? A pretty big task, not to be undertaken lightly and needs two pairs of hands. I only have one pair

[Raj]

I've had the front bumper off about 3 times already and it's not a 2 man job tbh. Can get it off in about 20 minutes.

Want to see how this turns out.

[sapphireblack]

I believe it's an easier removal on the facelift model? Regardless, i don't want DRL's enough for this much work

[shadrack]

just ordered these, gonna give them a go for that price, where im planning on putting them i wont need to remove the bumper but even so removal would not detur me!
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DRL-Daytime-R ... 336ea785aa

[Sanj]

Shad,

Where you mounting them - I looked wasn't too sure I like them in the lower grilles.

And an after shot is mandatory!

[shadrack]

gunna put the hidden back, in the mesh under the number plate i think however, im un sure, also going in for bodywork so could go anywhere really, if they will look sh*t i will just bin them thats why i went with ones for cheap!!

[storminmike]

If...as in the video these are 3rd wired to the sidelights (simple relay?) do the only come on when the sidelights are on...and if so what's the point

plus...will it annoy the error check system on the side lights/rings