[AstulzerRZD]

Originally Posted by BIC_BAWS

(might not always be DOT stamped but honestly what difference does it make)

Funny enough... there's a pretty reputable lighting consultant locally named Daniel Stern.

According to his thoughts in this article: https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/20...oem-headlamps/

There is little or no real optical engineering behind any of the aftermarket lamps — they are headlamp-shaped toys made from physical copies of the originals, which is not even close to adequate. One might as well try to cast new working contact lenses from a mould of your originals and expect to be able to see when you put ’em in your eyes. Even basic, low-tech headlamps are more akin to optical instruments than to the lamp on your bedside table.

The level of shape accuracy required to accurately focus a headlight beam can only be achieved with precise optical engineering from scratch, using correct materials with tightly controlled manufacturing and quality control. All of those things are missing from the knockoffs, which don’t even begin to get in the ballpark. Light distribution is not what it should be, and often the DOT certification marks are fraudulent."

Biography:

"Daniel Stern is the General Editor of DrivingVisionNews.com, the global automotive lighting industry journal He is a committee chair in the Society of Automotive Engineerings Lighting Systems Group, and participates in the research and development of Canadian, U.S., and international vehicle lighting technical standards and rules. Based in Vancouver, BC, Mr. Stern has written state and provincial vehicle lighting codes and inspection protocols, served as an expert witness in lawsuits related to vehicle lighting and been a product development manager for aftermarket vehicle lights."