Cars with long headlights: pros, cons and selection tips

Cars with long headlights is not just a stylish design element, but a functional solution that affects driving safety and comfort. Such optics, often called “extended” or “extended” headlights, are found both on classic retro models and on modern cars with an aggressive appearance. But what's behind this design decision? What benefits and risks do they carry such headlights for the driver?

In this article we will figure out what car models are equipped with long headlights, how they affect road lighting and what needs to be taken into account when using them. You will also learn how to choose the right replacement if the standard optics fail, and what legal nuances exist when installing non-standard headlights. Regardless of whether you are planning to buy a car with these headlights or are simply interested in the topic, here you will find answers to key questions.

What are long headlights and why are they needed?

Under the term "long headlights" usually refer to optical devices whose body is elongated horizontally, exceeding the standard dimensions of round or oval headlights. Such a solution can be either factory-made (for example, on Mercedes-Benz W123 or Volvo 240), and the result of tuning. Main objectives of the installation:

• 🔦 Improved lighting: due to the increased diffuser area, the light flux is distributed wider, covering a larger area of the road.
• 🚗 Unique design: Long headlights give the car a recognizable appearance, often associated with retro styling or sports models.
• 🛡️ Protection against mechanical damage: The elongated body can partially cover the radiator or bumper from small stones.

However, not everything is so simple. For example, on modern cars, long headlights can worsen aerodynamics, increasing air resistance. In addition, not all models of such headlights are certified for use on public roads - this is important to consider when purchasing.

Top 5 cars with long headlights: from classic to modern

If you're looking for a car with factory long headlights, check out these models. They became style icons and are still popular among collectors and lovers of unusual designs:

Model	Years of manufacture	Headlight Features	Average price (used), ₽
Mercedes-Benz W123	1975–1985	Rectangular headlights with chrome trim, often modified to LED	800 000 – 2 500 000
Volvo 240	1974–1993	Extended headlights with the ability to install additional foglights	500 000 – 1 800 000
BMW E24 (6 Series)	1976–1989	Four round headlights in an elongated housing, giving an aggressive look	1 200 000 – 3 000 000
Ford Granada (European version)	1972–1985	Wide rectangular headlights with integrated turn signals	400 000 – 1 500 000
Lada Vesta Sport	2018–present time	A modern interpretation of long headlights with LED technology	1 800 000 – 2 800 000

Important: on vehicles older than 20 years (for example, Mercedes-Benz W123 or Volvo 240) original headlights often require restoration - their plastic turns yellow and their reflectors lose their properties. Before purchasing, check the condition of the optics or budget for replacement costs.

Pros and cons of long headlights: what you need to know before buying

Before choosing a car with long headlights or installing them yourself, weigh the pros and cons. Here are the key points:

• ✅ Better visibility on the highway: Thanks to the increased diffuser area, the light is distributed more evenly, reducing blind spots.
• ✅ Unique appearance: such headlights make the car stand out in traffic, which is appreciated by tuning enthusiasts.
• ✅ Easy to upgrade: many models allow you to replace the lamps with LED or xenon without changing the housing.
• ❌ Difficulties with certification: not all long headlights comply with GOST R 51709-2001, which can lead to fines.
• ❌ Increased wear: Due to the larger area of glass or plastic, the risk of damage (cracks, chips) is higher.
• ❌ Price and availability of spare parts: original headlights for retro models can cost up to RUB 50,000 per pair.

⚠️ Attention: When installing non-standard long headlights, be sure to check them for compliance GOST R 41.48-2004 (UNECE Regulation No. 48). A traffic police inspector can fine you 500 rubles for non-compliance with the requirements for lighting devices (Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation).

How to choose long headlights: criteria and recommendations

If you decide to replace the standard optics with long headlights, follow these recommendations:

1. Compatible with car model: Check if the headlight housing fits the mounts on your car. For example, for VAZ 2107 headlights from Volvo 240, but the bumper will need modification.
2. Lamp type: give preference to models with support LED or xenon - they are more durable and brighter than halogen ones.
3. Housing material: Glass is stronger than plastic, but heavier. Plastic headlights are lighter, but become cloudy faster.
4. Availability of certificate: ask the seller for documents confirming compliance GOST.

Check compatibility with your model's mounts

Specify the type of lamps (halogen/LED/xenon)

Evaluate the case material (glass or plastic)

Request a GOST certificate of conformity

Compare prices in 3–4 stores -->

Pay special attention adjusting the light beam. Long headlights often require precise adjustment to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers. To do this, use special stands in car services or follow the instructions:

1. Place the car on a flat area 5 meters from the wall.
2. Make chalk marks on the wall at the level of the center of the headlights.
3. Adjust the screws on the headlight housing so that the light beam is 1–2 cm below the marks.

Installation and tuning of long headlights: step-by-step instructions

You can install long headlights yourself if you have basic skills in working with auto electricians. Here is a universal algorithm (using the example of replacing with VAZ 2106):

1. Disconnect the battery by removing the terminal "−".
2. Remove the old headlights by unscrewing the mounting bolts (usually 3-4 pieces for each).
3. Disconnect the power connectors from the lamps.
4. Install new headlights, connect the wires, observing the polarity.
5. Adjust the light beam (see instructions above).

For tuning they often use:

• 💡 LED strips along the contour of the headlights for illumination.
• 🔧 Chrome grilles on the headlight housing.
• 🎨 Glass tinting (but no more than 30% dimming, otherwise fine!).

⚠️ Attention: When installing LED bulbs in halogen headlights, check that they have a built-in current stabilization driver. Otherwise, the case may overheat and melt.

Maintenance and repair of long headlights: expert advice

Long headlights require more careful maintenance than standard optics. Here are the basic rules:

• 🧽 Cleaning: use special products for plastic (for example, Sonax Plastic Cleaner) to avoid microcracks.
• 🔧 Replacing lamps: Do not touch the glass of halogen lamps with bare hands - grease marks will shorten the service life.
• 🛠️ Crack repair: minor damage to plastic headlights can be repaired using UV glue (for example, 3M Scotch-Weld).

If the headlights fog up from the inside, this is a sign of depressurization. Temporary solution - place inside silica gel bags (like shoes), but it’s better to send the optics to a service center for restoration.

How to restore yellowing plastic headlights?

For this you will need:

1. Sandpaper, 1000–2000 grit.

2. Plastic polish (for example, Meguiar's PlastX).

3. Protective coating (varnish or “liquid glass”).

Process:

1. Sand the surface of the headlight to remove any yellowness.

2. Apply polish in a circular motion.

3. Coat with varnish to protect against UV rays.

The result lasts 1–2 years.

Legal aspects: what does the law say about long headlights?

In Russia, the use of lighting devices is regulated GOST R 51709-2001 and Technical Regulations of the Customs Union 018/2011. Here are the key points:

• 📜 Color of light: Only white, yellow or orange (for turn signals) are allowed. Blue, red or green lights are prohibited.
• 🔍 Brightness: Luminous flux should not exceed 2000 lumens for low beam and 4000 lumens for high beam.
• 🚔 Fines: for non-compliance with the requirements - 500 ₽ (Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation), for red or blue headlights - deprivation of rights for 6-12 months.

If you are installing aftermarket headlights, be sure to keep:

• 📄 Certificate of conformity (must be included).
• 🛒 Receipt or purchase and sale agreement.
• 🔧 Installation certificate (if the work was performed by the service).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about long headlights

Is it possible to install long headlights on any car?

Theoretically, yes, but in practice it depends on the design of the bumper and fastenings. For example, on Toyota Corolla it will be necessary to completely redo the front part, which is expensive and impractical. It is better to choose headlights that are designed for your model or are compatible with minimal modifications.

What is the service life of long headlights?

The service life depends on the material and type of lamps:

• Halogen headlights: 500–1000 hours.
• Xenon: 2000–3000 hours.
• LED: up to 30,000 hours (but drivers may fail).

Plastic cases last 5–7 years, glass cases - up to 10 years with proper care.

Do I need to register headlight replacement with the traffic police?

If the new headlights are certified and comply GOST, you do not need to register them. However, if you change type of light fixture (for example, from halogen to xenon), this is considered a design change, and data must be entered into the STS (clause 7.18 of the Technical Regulations of the Customs Union).

What should you do if, after installing long headlights, you start to blind oncoming drivers?

The problem is usually incorrect adjustment. Carry out the setup at a service station or yourself (see instructions above). If the headlights are still blinding, check:

• Compliance of the lamps with the declared power (not higher than 55 W for halogen).
• Integrity of the reflector (if damaged, the light scatters chaotically).
• Headlight tilt angle (should be no more than 1.5% for low beam).

Where to buy high-quality long headlights?

Reliable options:

• 🛒 Official dealers (for new models, for example, Lada Vesta Sport).
• 🌍 Online platforms: Auto.ru, Drom.ru, Avito (check seller reviews!).
• 🏬 Auto parts stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc (there is a filter by certification).
• 🇩🇪 Foreign sites: Amazon DE, Ebay (but please consider customs duties).

Average price for long headlights:

• Used (from disassembly): 5,000–20,000 ₽.
• New (Chinese replicas): 15,000–40,000 RUR.
• Original (for retro models): 30,000–100,000 ₽.