Version Identification & System Summaries
Version identification is specific to vehicle model with the exception of the E38.
There are two E38 Xenon systems. The early system identified as Generation 2.1 and equipped on 95-98 model year 750iL vehicles. The headlight design of this version has a flat bottom edge.
The Generation 3 system has been introduced on 1999 model year E38 vehicles. This system can be visually identified by the rounded bottom edge of the headlight assembly.
Scheme 148
LWR: All 1999 model year systems are also equipped with LWR (Headlight Beam Throw Control). This system automatically adjusts the vertical position of the headlight beams to compensate for vehicle loads ensuring optimum beam throw. LWR components and function is described further on in this section.
Headlight Replacement Parts: In previous model years, individual replacement parts were not available for headlight assemblies. This was due to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) relating to pitting or corrosion of the reflector components in non-sealed beam light assemblies.
BMW has submitted corrosion test data for headlight replacement components which have passed the FMVSS providing availability of headlight assembly spare parts. The approval has been given for all Bosch headlight assemblies (including halogen systems).
| Vehicle/ Model | Model Year | Manufacturer(s)/ Version ID | LWR- Head Light Beam Throw Cont. | Individual Replacement Parts Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E32/750iL | 93-94 | Hella (Light & CM "control module") Generation 1 | No | No |
| E38/750iL | 95-98 | Bosch (Light & CM) Generation 2.1 | No | Yes |
| E38/ All | 99 | Bosch (light) Hella (CM) Generation 3 | Yes | Yes |
| E39 All | 99 | Hella Generation 3 | Yes | No |
| E46 | 99 | Bosch (Light & CM) | Yes | Yes |
BMW CORROSION TEST DATA FOR HEADLIGHT REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS