2005 ZHP 330ci convertible Headlight lens Replacement: Where to purchase?

[Satcho]

I have a 2005 BMW ZHP 330ci convertible that needs the headlight lenses replaced. Will LCI replacements work?

See this link:

https://www.bimmerjakes.com/en/headlight-lens-plastic-covers-for-bmw-3-e46-1998-2006/3-28-bmw-3-series-e46-coupecabrio-facelift-new-headlight-lens-plastic-cover.html#/114-left_right-pair

Note: BimmerJakes states that they hope to have LCIs in stock next year.


I also find several Ebay products from China but they also state for Halogen such as:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/154609004829?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

https://www.ebay.com/itm/224673905255?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649


FCP Euro states that according to realoem.com, the headlight assembly is part numbers are #63126935725 and 26. A OEM headlight assembly is over $1,000.

Where can I purchase headlight lenses? It appears to me that they simply snap off upon visual inspection.

[papa_g]

They are glued on. You have to bake the headlight in the oven to melt the adhesive and then pull off the lens.
I would consider replacing mine too if I could find a decent value product.


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[Satcho]

[QUOTE=papa_g;611330]They are glued on. You have to bake the headlight in the oven to melt the adhesive and then pull off the lens.
I would consider replacing mine too if I could find a decent value product.


I was hoping the oven method would not be required. I've seen some say 200 degrees F and another said 250 degrees F for 10 to 15 minutes. What temperature is appropriate.

I am seeking other ZHPMafia members input on alternatives and whether any of the Ebay alternatives stating LCI or halogen fit properly.

[John in VA]

What I've read is that Bimmerjake's is the best solution, but they have not had the lenses for several years. No feedback on eBay lenses.
Schmiedmann has coupe/vert lenses but I believe they only fit pre-facelift:
https://www.schmiedmann.com/en/bmw-E46/catn-ol/1?q=headlight%20lens

[t.er]

I just bought a used headlight for real cheap - the lense was super pitted and yellowed. Sanded all of that down and shot it with 2K clear-coat in a can, and they look brand-new again.

Unless you have a crack in your lense that warrants a replacement, I'd do the same

[Satcho]

John in VA:

I contacted Bimmerjake's. They stated lens may be available next year. I just sent another inquiry for a full headlight assembly. Awaiting a reply.

Also, I've contacted Umnitza, Retrofitlab, and eeuroparts for product availability and proper fitment.

I just had a Chat discussion with Carid.com to determine if they have proper products. As a result of two different representatives providing two slightly different products (Magneti Marelli) and the lack of BMW part #s for cross-referencing, I have eliminated them as a source. No confidence in their fitment process.

Also, Spyder replacement products are not offered for Xenons.

John, just sent an email to Shmiedmann.com. It appears that they do offer facelift headlight assemblies.

[Satcho]

I just bought a used headlight for real cheap - the lense was super pitted and yellowed. Sanded all of that down and shot it with 2K clear-coat in a can, and they look brand-new again.

Unless you have a crack in your lense that warrants a replacement, I'd do the same

I started a re-finish process but errored by letting the polisher remain on a stubborn mark too long ... discolored the plastic ... too hot. I was so close to fully removing the mark but did not realize the heat issue. Therefore I need to replace the passenger. The re-finished driver-side lens is improved but not great. I am willing to bite the bullet and replace. Just want plug and play. FCP Euro has OEM replacements but they are over $1,000 for each.

[fredo]

Magneti Marelli is the OEM provider. I plan to buy a set to fix my burnt bowls issue. I read there’s a fitment problem on sedans (cars with headlamp washers vs without). Luckily my sedan doesn’t have the washers so it should be a direct fit.

[papa_g]

I was hoping the oven method would not be required. I've seen some say 200 degrees F and another said 250 degrees F for 10 to 15 minutes. What temperature is appropriate.


200 is fine for like 10 minutes



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[Satcho]

I am probably going to just replace the entire assembly.

Umnitza has a product for my 2005 ZHP convertible. The price will be $539.98 for bi-xenons for a pair. If angel eyes are added another $50 to $280 depending on whether one selects halogen or Orion V2 or V4 or Orion multicolor.
https://www.umnitza.com/projector46-coupe-e46-04-06-facelifted-chrome-or-black.html

Will update with other options. i have made several inquires to clarify proper fitment to my vehicle. eEuroparts lists a Magenti Marelli but the part number does not match my vehicle's part number provided by FCP Euro.

[t.er]

I started a re-finish process but errored by letting the polisher remain on a stubborn mark too long ... discolored the plastic ... too hot. I was so close to fully removing the mark but did not realize the heat issue.

If it's discoloured just on the surface, you could try to sand it out? Going with the clear-coat route, you have to sand up to 800 grit anyways, so it's possible you could get that burn mark off with a lower grit.



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[wellcraft]

I just removed the lenses from my headlights today and I didn't use the oven l, I just used a heat gun. Super easy, it took me probably a bit over 5 minutes to do each headlights. I was actually surprised as to how easy it was.i did a set of taillights a few years ago and those a pita.

[Satcho]

I received a response from Spyder (https://www.spyderauto.com/home.php)

The only headlights offered for the 2005 model will be for a halogen
headlight from OE.

We do not currently have a Xenon/HID model.

[wellcraft]

I received a response from Spyder (https://www.spyderauto.com/home.php)

The only headlights offered for the 2005 model will be for a halogen
headlight from OE.

We do not currently have a Xenon/HID model.

When you say xenon/HID light, do you mean halogen plus xenon? That's what I have and I wanted to replace my lenses but I now realized they are not available.

[sillieidiot]

This is why I collect the lenses lol I think I have like 2 pairs. But mines never going to go bad cause I have PPF on lol I've been meaning to sell them, but too lazy to take it out of storage.

[Satcho]

This is why I collect the lenses lol I think I have like 2 pairs. But mines never going to go bad cause I have PPF on lol I've been meaning to sell them, but too lazy to take it out of storage.

I believe you are correct. One halogen and one bi-xenon dynamic

[Satcho]

I did not trust the information that the Ebay sellers because they could not confirm fitment nor provide BMW part #s for cross-referencing.

I purchased a pair Umnitza ... more money than I anticipated but it depends on what you add ,,, such as angel eyes $230, and I sought to retain the "dynamic" features so another $60, and $30 film protection for lenses. Ultimately a total of $1000 for a pair which includes the bulbs and ballasts.

I asked BimmerJakes if they had the complete assembly ...NO.

The only other potential option is Retrofitlab. A little slow to reply. You retain your bulbs.