Headlights

[sboost]

I have a 2000 Boxster (USA model) with regular halogens. The face of both headlights are somewhat yellowed and burned, the same as I have seen on so many other Boxsters. I got a great price on a good used pair from a 1999 model off of Ebay from someone in the UK. I was a bit unsure if there would be any difference between the assemblies from LH versus RH drive vehicles, but the price was right so I took a chance. I received and installed them this weekend. The rubber edge seals were a bit different, as was the glass pattern on the face of the main beam, but I suspect this was because they were from different years (1999 versus 2000). Beyond that there was no distinguishable difference, all the bulbs were per spec and the headlights fit and work perfectly. I removed P/N 986 631 032 04, 986 631 031 04 and installed 986 631 032 11, 986 631 031 11.

The European parts catalogue has option code M492 "for left hand traffic" listed against the replacements I installed. I was unable to note any difference between them. Does anyone know if and what the actual difference may be between the assemblies for LH versus RH vehicles?

[Glyn]

I have a 2000 Boxster (USA model) with regular halogens. The face of both headlights are somewhat yellowed and burned, the same as I have seen on so many other Boxsters. I got a great price on a good used pair from a 1999 model off of Ebay from someone in the UK. I was a bit unsure if there would be any difference between the assemblies from LH versus RH drive vehicles, but the price was right so I took a chance. I received and installed them this weekend. The rubber edge seals were a bit different, as was the glass pattern on the face of the main beam, but I suspect this was because they were from different years (1999 versus 2000). Beyond that there was no distinguishable difference, all the bulbs were per spec and the headlights fit and work perfectly. I removed P/N 986 631 032 04, 986 631 031 04 and installed 986 631 032 11, 986 631 031 11.

The European parts catalogue has option code M492 "for left hand traffic" listed against the replacements I installed. I was unable to note any difference between them. Does anyone know if and what the actual difference may be between the assemblies for LH versus RH vehicles?

The beam spread of lights between is different between left and right hand drive, On a right hand drive car the the nearside (left hand side from the driving position) headlight should throw a beam of light towards the nearside to highlight kerbs etc, the same is true for the right hand side for left hand drive cars, if you use the wrong type of unit the car will fail its annual MOT, A UK car being used in a country that drives on the right we have to fit defusers to change the beam spread.

The light unit will look almost the same but internally they will aim the beams differently

Glyn

[ssflai]

I just bought a pair of halogen headlights from UK as well... now, i know the differences between the LH and RH lights. But then, in North America, i thought all we care is the beams are wide, far and bright..:lightbulb: