# How to Identify if Your BMW Includes Angel Eyes: A Comprehensive Guide
BMW is renowned for its unique and elegant lighting configurations, with one of the most iconic elements being the “Angel Eyes” or corona rings. These circular LED or CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp) rings encircle the headlights and function as daytime running lights (DRLs) or parking lights. If you’re uncertain whether your BMW features Angel Eyes, this comprehensive guide will assist you in finding out if your vehicle possesses this characteristic.
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## **Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with Angel Eyes**
Before examining your BMW, it’s important to know what Angel Eyes resemble. Angel Eyes are round or semi-circular light rings that border the main headlight projectors. They made their debut in the early 2000s and have evolved into a hallmark design aspect in numerous BMW models.
### **Categories of Angel Eyes:**
– **Halogen-Based Angel Eyes:** Present in older BMW models, these use halogen bulbs and emit a yellow hue.
– **CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp) Angel Eyes:** Brighter and whiter compared to halogen, these were incorporated in select mid-2000s models.
– **LED Angel Eyes:** Available in newer BMW models, these feature bright white or bluish tones, giving a contemporary appearance.
– **Laser and OLED Angel Eyes:** Featured in the latest BMW models, these provide cutting-edge lighting technology with a futuristic look.
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## **Step 2: Verify Your BMW’s Model and Year**
Not every BMW is equipped with Angel Eyes as a standard feature. The option was first introduced with the **2001 BMW 5 Series (E39)** and has since become more prevalent in **3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X Series, and M models** through subsequent years.
### **Typical BMW Models Equipped with Angel Eyes:**
– **BMW 3 Series (E90, E92, F30, G20)**
– **BMW 5 Series (E39, E60, F10, G30)**
– **BMW 7 Series (E65, F01, G11)**
– **BMW X Series (X3, X5, X6)**
– **BMW M Models (M3, M5, M6, etc.)**
If your BMW dates from the early 2000s or later, there is a strong possibility it features Angel Eyes, particularly if it matches one of the models listed above.
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## **Step 3: Visually Examine the Headlights**
The simplest method to ascertain if your BMW includes Angel Eyes is to carry out a visual inspection of the headlights.
### **Inspection Procedure:**
1. **Engage the Parking Lights or DRLs** – Start your vehicle and activate the parking lights or daytime running lights.
2. **Observe for Circular Rings** – Stand in front of the vehicle and scrutinize the headlights. If you notice illuminated rings surrounding the main headlight projectors, your BMW is equipped with Angel Eyes.
3. **Evaluate the Color and Intensity** – Older models might display a yellowish light, whereas newer models will likely exhibit bright white or bluish LED rings.
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## **Step 4: Review the Vehicle’s Light Options**
Certain BMW models provide the capability to toggle Angel Eyes on or off via the vehicle’s iDrive system or light switch configurations.
### **How to Verify via iDrive (For Newer Models):**
1. **Access the iDrive Menu** – Go to **Settings > Lighting > Exterior Lighting**.
2. **Search for “Daytime Running Lights”** – If this selection is present and activated, your Angel Eyes should light up when the vehicle is operational.
For older models lacking iDrive, Angel Eyes generally activate automatically with the parking lights.
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## **Step 5: Refer to the Owner’s Manual**
If uncertainty persists, consult your BMW’s owner’s manual. The manual will contain information about the lighting system, indicating whether your model is fitted with Angel Eyes. Review sections concerning **exterior lighting, daytime running lights, or parking lights**.
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## **Step 6: Inspect the Headlight Assembly Label**
For a more technical verification, you can examine the label on the headlight assembly. Lift the hood and inspect the rear of the headlight housing. Some BMW headlights feature labels that specify the type of lighting system utilized, including the presence of Angel Eyes.
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## **Step 7: Online VIN Lookup**
Your **Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)** can offer detailed insights into the factory-installed features of your BMW.
### **Procedure for VIN Verification:**
1. **Locate Your VIN** – It is typically found on the driver’s side dashboard or within the driver’s door frame.
2. **
