Aftermarket Hight Intensity Discharge lamps

Question

I have noticed that HID (xenon) lamps are being sold as aftermarket accessories for cars that do not have them as original equipment. Is this legal? My understanding is that cars that come out with factory fitted xenon lamps also have automatic levelling mechanisms to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. The aftermarket kits do not have this feature.

Answer

If what you state is correct, then the matter relates to two issues (1) non-OEM (original equipment fitted by manufacturer) equipment and (b) road-worthiness of the vehicle in terms of positioning of the dipped beam of the main driving lights. In both instances, the Act requires that any non-manufacturer (non-original) items of equipment that are fitted to a vehicle, and which may affect the handling, control and operation of the vehicle, require that the vehicle be presented at a vehicle test station to test the relevant equipment for compliance with the roadworthiness requirements (for example, this will include steering wheels, braking systems, exhaust systems, tyres and rims outside the manufacturers specifications, lamps and lighting devices, suspension, etc). Note: the above examples are not exhaustive. The position of the dipped beams of the main lights is important and (although very uncommon) drivers / owners of vehicles can be prosecuted for incorrectly set driving lamps. In finality to your question: NO, there is no specific reference to these bulbs (or type of lamps) in this scenario. Reference is only to height of lamps above road surface, number of lamps, colour of lamps and the setting of the dipped beam. Please contact us again should you require further information or need further clarity.