just got my column switches wired up and noticed that when I switch from dip beam to main beam the dip beam goes out. I know that on my dads laguna the dip beam stays on so I was wondering if my lights are ok? Is it a legal requirement to have both dip and main beams on or is just the one bulb sufficient?

Cheers

Pete

i believe the theory is that too much heat will be produced with both dip and full. AFAIK all sierras did this. It is perfectly acceptable for the SVA.

i agree

you will have 110w from the bulb, which doesnt sound right.....

atb

steve

Oh good, that means my lights are sorted! Just gotta sort out the small matter of one of my fuses blowing every single time I put the sidelights on...

Pete

Normal for older cars such as Sierra, Escort etc.

Some modern cars make use of both on at once for better illumination. Stronger glass, diffrent bulb/glass distance, different lighting.

On a 7, any help for night driving helps. Even the halogen lights are only just adequate if you start pushing speed.

I don't go out in dark often, I feel more vulnerable.

I believe on the bike the dip goes out when main beam is on therefore not drawing more power from alternator/battery than necessary. Incidentally, our headlights are very bright compared to my tin top (Mazda6) even on dip beam, main beam...

IIRC the SVA stipulates the condition you describe and that's what our's is wired to do. It passed...