Talk to me about Audi A3 Headlights

[Old Merc]

I`ve just purchased a 2014 A3 TFSI S line S Tronic Saloon.( so I must change to Old Audi ).

Its a low mileage one owner, immaculate, no problems. I`m a bit confused with the headlamps, I was expecting them to be much brighter, or is it me not used to A3 lights. It passed the MOT so they must be set up correctly. The lamps are clean and not faded or damaged.

They must be xenon as there is not a manual beam levelling switch, the book says its all automatic. When I switch on the lights for the first time at night, the dip beam is bright then instantly goes less bright? is there any way to stop it doing that? also the main beam is a big wide light, not a direct beam. Is that normal ?

To be honest the headlamps on my old Mercedes C class shed were better.

Comments from you Audi experts would be appreciated.

[stogbandard]

Just a wild thought, but have you checked, using the MMI, to make sure they’re not on the ‘headlamp converter’ setting for driving in France? That reduces range.

[Dr G]

Xenon bulbs fade/dim over time. Replace them.

I recommend Osram Night Breaker Xenarc.

[Old Merc]

Thanks for the replies Guys.
The issue I don’t understand, when I switch on the headlights first time at night. The dip beam is bright then instantly clicks “less bright” and stays that way.

[Dr G]

Xenons use a lot of current to start (hence the flare when you turn them on) then back down once they're running at normal level. They will also typically do a motor sweep on turning on so you'll see them momentarily aim higher than normal.

[FMOB]

The headlights passing an MOT does not mean they have optimal alignment just that aren't a problem.

Suggest getting the beam alignment checked to confirm this is in spec first before looking at replacing bulbs for £20+ each.

[oldaudi]

Old Merc said:

I`ve just purchased a 2014 A3 TFSI S line S Tronic Saloon.( so I must change to Old Audi ).

OldAudi is taken, I need to be Old BMW now