I know that some members have concerns about using approved bulbs however I have been trying to find some easy ways to personalise my car. I have tried several LED bulbs, W5Ws with multiple LEDs and some amber turn indicators. Until today I have been very unimpressed - everything that I tried just was nowhere near as powerful as the standard filament bulbs. Today I received some CREE W21W replacements from China, they did take about a month to arrive, but they work well so I thought I would share my discovery.
I ordered from eBay http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180860244170 for £9.56 although I have now seen some UK listings for similar prices but there are still some people who want more than £24 for a pair.
(http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg601/carlclarke/IMG_8017.jpg)
(http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg601/carlclarke/IMG_8020.jpg)
(http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg601/carlclarke/IMG_8019.jpg)
Looking at the photo the filament version (RHS) does blast the light around the fitting as it would, the CREE however points most of the light forward through its lens. I like the whiteness of the CREE and I like how it shows off the outer lens of the cluster. I will try out reversing in the dark as soon a I can. I have ordered the CREE W5W units because I want to try them in the high-level brake light. If they work well it is a good safety feature as the LEDs illuminate faster giving cars behind a slightly sooner indication. Halfords do sell 'fast W5W' lights for the same purpose at about £6.99 each.
Sorry the car is a bit dusty after the recent high winds. I had a go at de-badging too - looks like someone glued part of the 'Roadster' badge with something strong - maybe Araldite. Does anyone know how to remove it without damaging the paintwork?
Carl.