Which diagnostic tool

[SanderR72]

Ok it does look like you’re using LEDs as replacements for halogen and these aren’t legal in UK. Probably not an issue elsewhere in EU but definitely a NoNo here in UK. At best I can use uprated halogens like Osram but without knowing I was hoping a different van might be compatible and more with modern times. The dealer who sold me the van has admitted using a later light module fitted with LED’s and whilst admitting they aren’t legal he also said they aren’t detectable and don’t cause light splintering. I’m simply too old to risk losing my license so I’ll consider his advice with caution.

Indeed, LED replacements for the halogen, but I’m based in the Netherlands and no issue here.

I believe there are complete replacement units (so including the glass etc) that are road legal, maybe even in the UK but that will be certainly another price category.

Or - if legal in the UK - go for a set of (LED) beams that are mounted in the grill. I think I saw a forum member having these, but can’t find the post, nor know whether is was a UK based member.

 

[SanderR72]

Thank you. That’s really helpful and I can’t wait to contact them. My iPhone may be good but screen isn’t as big as I need for satnav.

I’m confident that the absolute5 guys can give you good advice. I replaced my head unit with a cheap Android based unit that supports wireless Apple CarPlay. Works ok, still relatively small screen as it needs to fit in the original bay. One major flaw: the tilt of the screen makes it very reflective and hard to see depending on the sun outside.

Keep the latter in mind when you get other advice.

 

[donboon]

I’m confident that the absolute5 guys can give you good advice. I replaced my head unit with a cheap Android based unit that supports wireless Apple CarPlay. Works ok, still relatively small screen as it needs to fit in the original bay. One major flaw: the tilt of the screen makes it very reflective and hard to see depending on the sun outside.

Keep the latter in mind when you get other advice.

Screen reflection appears to be the common complaint. I’ve already bought the CarPlay unit so might be better to use that. At least I can alter the angle. Only concern is view blocking. Another capital punishment in the UK: for some.

 

[vmaxkiddy]

I think https://transporterhq.co.uk/ do full replacement units

 

[Louis II]

I think https://transporterhq.co.uk/ do full replacement units

Did you find any on there that use LED for the full / dipped beam as opposed to LED for the DRL + halogen bulbs for the full / dipped?

 

[Louis II]

You can choose the whichever bulbs you want in the drop down menu:

View attachment 140402

But I suppose if you pick the LEDs you’re back to square 1 with an illegal set up?

 

[donboon]

Did you find any on there that use LED for the full / dipped beam as opposed to LED for the DRL + halogen bulbs for the full / dipped?

Not yet but still looking. It’s probably best to start a new thread/topic on this. There is still one possibility. Some modern lights throw a flat beam instead of a wedge. These don’t splinter light so they could be a solution.

 

[donboon]

Yes, you will be hunted down by the authorities!

Personally I would say that LED replacement headlight bulbs manufactured by a reputable company, with no blinding glare, which are road legal in other European countries present very little if no risk to other road users.

Some approved (non matrix) LED lights on recent cars seem far brighter. Some now even have full light bars across the grill,
Permanent driving/fogs lamps which are very distracting.

Followed a Tesla last night and couldn’t tell what might happen next. A solid red bar across entire width. Only saw indicators but no brakes. No doubt using “I” pedal and regen for braking. Not good for us regulars

 

[donboon]

Sorry if my topic has diversed so I’m going to look deeper into other threads to learn more about diagnostic tools, if that’s at all possible with my level of memory. Fortunately with several grandchildren all driving I’ve a ready made encyclopaedia all using AI at my disposal.
So thank you all for trying to help

 

[pjm-84]

I would avoid the VCDS....I have this and its overly complicated compared to other products I've previously used. Very powerful but not required for the home DIYer

 

[donboon]

I eventually settled on iCarsoft CR-Max. It’s dealt with several fault codes but can’t program, just as well as I’m likely to make mistakes. Plus I can use it on my other vehicles and of course it’s an excuse to see more of the kids, grand children etc.

 

[donboon]

You can choose the whichever bulbs you want in the drop down menu:

View attachment 140402

I’ve bought a set (MK 3) including the LEDs strictly on the promise from the seller that I won’t get into trouble with M.O.T.s etc. unfortunately the main beam raises a bulb fault, contrary to their promise that it shouldn’t. However the boss of the company has agreed to deal with it so it’s a win win.

 

[sidepod]

I would avoid the VCDS....I have this and its overly complicated compared to other products I've previously used. Very powerful but not required for the home DIYer

Bit harsh? Complicated? Not really. It’s certainly not intuitive but an hour on YouTube and you know what you need to. Infinitely more powerful than anything else.

The big advantage with it is you can rock up at the main dealership with the correct diagnosis and proof. No arguments or fobbing off.

 

[SanderR72]

Bit harsh? Complicated? Not really. It’s certainly not intuitive but an hour on YouTube and you know what you need to. Infinitely more powerful than anything else.

The big advantage with it is you can rock up at the main dealership with the correct diagnosis and proof. No arguments or fobbing off.

I get your point but my hourly rate (to spend on YouTube) is higher than a main dealership’s one and I never go to them because often they write the bill with a fork anyway.

So I’ll settle for a less powerful one.

 

[donboon]

Well I’m a little older and wiser as they say. I’ve been reliably (if such exists) told my newly fitted LED headlight units are proper legal but time will tell. I’ve kept the original headlight units and written text guarantees saved just in case.
Despite being told they wouldn’t throw up any faults they did. Apparently my August 2015 SE California model has bits of T6 fitted so I went to supplier who fixed the codes for free (not counting diesel and time spent)
Well worth the transition as expected.
I’ve purchased a versatile diagnostic tool (iCarsoft CR Max) to deal with random faults whilst I strip (make mistakes) and learn but now looking at the Ross Tech VCDS because I can see me needing it as I plough through a long list of modifications that I’m venturing to keep myself busy. I’ll be looking for help and advice on that matter if anyone can point me to a thread or topic.
Thank you all once again for your help and guidance.