Mandatory by law in Germany
A "clean" task for a headlamp cleaning system. It ensures its optimum effect and prevents glare, especially in dirty winter weather, in bad weather and on unpaved roads. All vehicles which have been registered since April 1, 2000 and which have a dipped beam with a luminous intensity of more than 2,000 lumen must be equipped with such a headlamp cleaning system. In particular, many of the xenon headlamps installed today (35 Watt version) inevitably require an headlamp cleaning system, as their dipped beam light has a luminous intensity of more than the 2,000 lumen. Many LED headlamps and all halogen headlamps, on the other hand, are below this value. A headlamp cleaning system is not legally required for them in Germany.
It's also called a "shower"
To save washing water, the device called "shower" by lighting engineers in most cars only works when the main headlights are switched on. This can lead to the situation that the cover lenses have become slightly dirty when driving without lights or with daytime running lights and still are when the dipped beam is switched on later. Then it helps to pull the wiper lever once and the problem is solved - you just must remember that.
The right agent for washing water
The cover lenses of headlamps - formerly also called diffusing lenses because of a different optical function - are now made of plastic with a paint coating, with a few negligible exceptions. This is sensitive to certain chemicals in the washing water. Bad are those that foam on the headlamp. If some of the foam remains after the cleaning cycle is complete, this again impairs the optical properties of the headlamp. Glare or poor illumination are the consequences," says the expert. Suitable anti-freeze agents mention on the packaging that they are compatible with polycarbonate lenses. This is usually the case with branded products. The suitability for fan nozzles is also an indication of a high-quality liquid.
Rainwater for mixing
Antifreeze must do more than just prevent freezing and help with cleaning. The elegant telescopic nozzles of some vehicles depend on a slightly lubricating effect of the washing water. Conversely, lime can have a negative effect. In this case, the nozzles may no longer extend after prolonged use. In regions with very hard, i.e. calciferous drinking water, distilled water is an alternative. Another alternative: rainwater for mixing is very inexpensive.
Ensure plenty of water
The shower for the headlights needs plenty of water. Most cars equipped with an headlight cleaning system therefore have a larger supply on board. Nevertheless it annoys some owners that in dirty weather the level warning lights up quite soon. Anyone who tampers with the software or electronics should know that during the general inspection the inspectors must always complain about a non-functioning headlight cleaning system.
