Willow

Wow, thanks to you all for your replies. Let me answer your questions. Firstly, forester 2002s. You are correct about DRLs in Australia. Matter of fact, after checking on www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au I found that the 2010 Outback does not have DRLs even as an option. The order of lamp illumination is: first setting, parking lights. This illuminates small quartz lamps in the corner of the high beam housing. second: low beam headlights are on. Third and last setting is the auto function. In both setting two and three the HID low beam lighting is the same intensity. I drove the car last night and it may be my eyesight, but since I last drove at night, I believe that the low beam was even duller than before. So, F4me, you may be right about the lifespan and deterioration of the lamps, but these lights have been, to me, unacceptable since day one. Co-incidentally, I have to return the car to the dealer due to a recall about the wiper motor, so I will take your advice mt, and hit them up for it. Don't like my chances, as they did nothing while it was under warranty, so what would compel them to do it now. However, will give it a go. Will keep you all posted. Cheers.

Thanks for the reply MT. I'm not sure that my car has that feature, although it was the top of the line in 2010. How do I check, and what would be the remedy? Cheers.

The HID low beam headlights on my 2010 Outback 3.6R are dim to the point of being dangerous. Despite mentioning this to the dealer every service, nothing has been done. Being now out of warranty, what steps can I take to improve the situation? I notice that the current model Outback has the same or similar lights, but are very bright. Any thoughts?