Passat 3BG Headlight Reflector

Hello everyone,
I just came from the car repair shop, and I was planning to have them adjust my headlights because they were shining too low.
Diagnosis: Both reflectors were completely worn out and could no longer be adjusted (H7). The cost: 2 * 270!
Is this a known issue, and is it something that can't be repaired by someone who likes to tinker?
So, I need to find a replacement. Online, which manufacturer/provider offers something worthwhile?
I came across Dectane Dayline...
Haithamina.

Does it not have German-made lenses, and are the lenses tilted?

I think so too.
"But the Smily showed me that the reflector/chrome trim on my car is positioned differently than on a 3BG with "intact" headlights. The entire chrome interior is NOT a single piece; the inner/rear part can be moved. The electronic headlight range adjustment moves the reflector/trim up and down."

I don't quite understand yet what the adjustment screws actually change (obviously, the vertical and horizontal axis): do they adjust the reflector/shutter, or just the H7 lens? I still need to test that.

Currently, I think the Smily wanted to make money and/or didn't want to bother adjusting the headlights.

haithamina

Vibrated off...
Sounds creative.

I can't really believe that, either.
Normally, you would use a gear with a reduction ratio to drive a worm gear.

How about trying this: Stand in front of a garage or wall and use the hexagonal wrench to manually adjust the headlights up or down. If they've really "vibrated loose," they shouldn't be adjustable in either direction (up or down).

What I once had in a Ford Fiesta:
The adjustment screw was already at its maximum setting (I don't know why, maybe the headlight was replaced at some point...).
Then it became more difficult to adjust the headlights downwards further. ATU then suggested constantly reducing the headlight range adjustment.
The TÜV inspector, however, was more astute and noticed first that the low beam was not set to 0, and second, he found the problem. The gear could be lifted off the worm gear, then shifted, thereby expanding the adjustment range.
Perhaps something similar?

haithamina wrote:

I stumbled upon Dectane Dayline... Haithamina

Then quickly get up again and run away . You're just going from bad to worse.

Mechanically, they aren't even that bad. If you're lucky, they might even be leak-proof. However, there are far worse headlights in terms of workmanship and fit. But you shouldn't expect a light output comparable to the factory equipment.

I still have the "Schlacht" headlights from a 3BG.
I disassembled it because of the lenses.
that means I have "extra" of the rest.
I'd be happy to take some pictures if you're interested.
Best regards,

Hello everyone,
gute Tipps und Anregungen bisher. Thank you.
As stated: the e-light intensity regulation moves the reflectors, that is a fact.
I haven't had a chance to tighten the hex screw yet, as I'm only out and about during the day (and I'm sitting in front of this computer in the evenings).
I suspect, however, that the hex screws will be intact. I only found entries on the internet related to stripped/corroded plastic screws/threads for the 3B model. I didn't find any forum threads describing this problem with the 3BG model using H7 screws.
Since the technician (Smily) a) didn't check how the headlight leveling was set before pushing his testing device in front of the headlights (which is what I pointed out to him) and b) seems to be allergic to a size 6 Allen wrench and the attempt to manually adjust the headlights, so he didn't even try to adjust them... hopefully, everything will still work. I'll test it and get back to you.

If a replacement is needed, I will go with Hella or Bosch. I don't trust these aftermarket accessories, like headlights or taillights. Usually, these parts eventually develop a small leak, which can cause problems depending on their age. And at least Dectane isn't cheaper than buying Hella online.
haithamina

On the Golf 3, I'm familiar with the design where the Allen screw connects to a metal threaded rod. This rod then connects to a "plastic part with a ball joint." The reflector is then attached to the ball joint.

"This 'plastic part with a ball joint' was made of thin plastic. If you turned it even slightly with the Allen key beyond what the reflector allowed, the plastic thing would break. I've seen this happen on several G3 double headlights (I even bought a second set on eBay after the first one broke)."

After that, I had it printed using a plastic 3D printer, and it lasted until the end. I didn't need the five spare parts. I'm not sure if I still have them or if I've already disposed of them.

Could you please open your software and post a picture of the defect?

Greetings.
Sure, here's the translation:

"Guste" is a German word that means "gust" or "gust of wind." It can also be used to describe a sudden burst of something, such as laughter or anger.

Morning!
The ADAC (German Automobile Club) is currently offering free activation for members, and even for non-members (A*U). So, you can quickly go there, have your vehicle data recorded (which will likely result in regular great offers by mail...), wait 2 minutes, drive the car in, spend less than a minute adjusting the slightly misaligned left side and checking the right side, drive the car out, and hear "Thank you! Have a nice weekend."
It's this easy to save the €540 plus labor costs that Smily estimates!
haithamina