2012 Estima Hybrid - What do I need to know about headlights?

[jascination]

Hi everyone,

I have a 2012 JDM Estima Hybrid (I'm in Australia) and I'm not loving the headlights on this car. They seem to work ok but they don't do a great job of illuminating road lines and in general compared to my 2020 Mazda3 they're rubbish.

I know absolutely nothing about headlights. So can anyone tell me:

- What type of headlights these are?

- What type of light I would be replacing them with (is it possible to put in LED lights?)

- Would I be replacing just the bulbs or the whole housing?

- Which of the lights would I be replacing?

- Is it best to take off the bumper to access the lights?

 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Paulscarbs]

Welcome.

Technology moves on quickly, so your Mazda is bound to have better road illumination.

Your HID/xenon bulbs may be beyond their best and can be accessed, if you have tiny hands, through the wheel arch. Otherwise the front bumper will need to be removed. New ones, with a 10 year warranty, are available.

I have not yet heard of anyone successfully using LED bulbs legally (UK).

Do post anything you attempt as many of us would be interested.

[jascination]

@Paulscarbs Will do, thanks for the advice. From what I've seen on Youtube, it's best to remove the bulbs first to see what's actually in there, and then replace with a new version of the same model, is that right?

I have large hands so looks like it's the bumper route for me!

[Paulscarbs]

21 hours ago, jascination said:

@Paulscarbs Will do, thanks for the advice. From what I've seen on Youtube, it's best to remove the bulbs first to see what's actually in there, and then replace with a new version of the same model, is that right?

I have large hands so looks like it's the bumper route for me!

Pleasure. Regarding replacement bulbs, yes, fit the same as what is designed IMO.

You could always employ a small-handed individual!