The headlights fitted to oh-so-many four-wheel drives could best be described as rubbish. The units I am referring to here are 7in round headlights found on Land Rover Defenders, Jeep Wranglers, and my much loved (and sometimes sworn at) Nissan…
The headlights fitted to oh-so-many four-wheel drives could best be described as rubbish. The units I am referring to here are 7in round headlights found on Land Rover Defenders, Jeep Wranglers, and my much loved (and sometimes sworn at) Nissan GQ Patrol… for example. I’ve tolerated their performance, much like my wife tolerates my need to rebuild chainsaws on our dining room table.
For images and the full Unsealed 4X4 experience, read this in our online magazine.
Recently, things got worse when one of the sealed beam headlights on the Patrol blew while heading off for a last-minute camping trip. So rather than replace the stock rubbish, I’ve taken a gamble by installing a set of Ignite Lighting LED replacement 7in roundies. And the result? WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE!
I know automotive journalists have the tendency to gush when reviewing products, but this headlight upgrade is one of the best modifications I’ve done –considering how often I’ll use them. Legit! The install was plug-and-play once the vehicle’s grille was removed. The spread offered on low-beam is sensational, and once high-beam is selected the smaller outer LEDs fire up to offer more illumination than I’ve come to expect from a brand-new luxury vehicle. Pretty good for a truck made in 1989!
After a two-hour drive, they were cold to the touch and drew 0.2A less than the stock low-beams as well (according to the aftermarket volt meter I’m running). These Ignite units aren’t cheap – coming in at $499 for the pair – but I see that as an investment in safety and longevity. Oh, and on a superficial and shallow note… how sweet do they look!
Click here for the specs: ignitelighting.com
