Thought it would be a good idea to give TM some info on upgrading headlamps and the MOT ( in the UK) as things have just changed a bit.
The upgrading of existing halogen headlamps with HID bulbs has been a MOT fail for a few years now. However upgrading with LED bulbs was OK. Not anymore! From 11/01/2021 the MOT rules have been updated to make the fitment of LED bulbs ( in existing halogen units) a fail.
I attach the new rule for clarity.
4. Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
4.1.4 Headlamps - Compliance with requirements - Changed sentence from 'Existing halogen headlamp units should not be converted to be used with HID bulbs. If such a conversion has been done, you must fail the headlamp.' to 'Existing halogen headlamp units should not be converted to be used with high intensity discharge (HID) or light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. If such a conversion has been done, you must fail the headlamp.'
Many thanks for update Andy although not surprised given HID headlamps pre dated LED'S. You couldn't maintain regulations for one technology then ignore another newer one with the same potential.
What of the self levelling and headlamp cleaning requirements though for LED's as already established for HID units or is this something that is not checked during MOT's?
