Can the headlights of Changan Oshan X5 be modified?
2 Answers
Yes, headlights are not considered part of the vehicle's exterior, and modifying them with LED lights can pass the annual inspection. The annual inspection for headlights focuses on two aspects: first, whether the brightness meets the standard (currently, the minimum lumen value is 1400, and the brightness must not be lower than this); second, whether the beam angle is correct—as long as the high and low beam angles are appropriate, the vehicle will pass the inspection safely. Here are some considerations for modifying headlights: 1. Whether the vehicle can accommodate LED lights: Although LEDs start with low current and do not interfere with most vehicles, some models that detect power may require an additional decoder. 2. Whether to install a lens: Before installing LED headlights, check if the vehicle's halogen lights have a lens. If not, there are three solutions: first, install LED bulbs with a "built-in cutoff line" for the low beam, which mimics the effect of a lens and creates a left-low, right-high light pattern to reduce glare for oncoming traffic; second, install a lens along with the LED headlights; third, use LED bulbs with excellent focusing performance. The choice depends on the specific vehicle model. 3. Check the original headlight model: Not all vehicle models can accommodate LED lights, as the socket types vary, and different models require different LED bulbs.
Last time I modified the headlights on my Oshan X5, I visited three different modification shops. It's definitely doable but requires some know-how. The factory halogen bulbs can be directly replaced with LED or xenon bulbs, but you must choose vehicle-specific models to prevent circuit damage. The LED bulbs I installed have worked flawlessly for half a year, though I got pulled over once for excessive brightness. You can also replace the entire headlight assembly with those cool models featuring sequential turn signals, but you'll need to check if there's enough space in the front end. The safest option is to get the factory upgrade package at a 4S dealership - though more expensive, you won't have to worry about annual inspection issues. After much deliberation, I opted for a compromise solution: just replacing the bulbs and adding a lens. Now driving on highways at night is noticeably brighter.
