What's the difference in the Euro lens vs the USA approved lens? Do they project differently or what?

 

E-codes are completely clear.

 

You mean there are no ridges molded into it?

 

correct

 

wrong. E- codes simply have different "ridges" molded into them. Putting totally clear lenses on simple parabolic reflectors (the silver inside the headlight) would result in a totally useless headlight. The difference with e- codes is the beam pattern, which is made by those "ridges." e- codes have a sharp "cutoff" at the top of the light, so they direct more light down the road. This results in less glare to oncoming drivers, and a longer sight line. DOT headlights are required to waste some light in an upward direction in order to light freeway and other overhead signs. Seriously. E- codes have a much more useful beam pattern, in my opinion

 

I put the e-codes from FCP groton and was really happy with them. I had a small hole in one headlight from a stone, so I replaced both. I still kept the same bulbs and the seem to brighten up the road. One day I'l get some fancier bulbs for them. They also helped perk up the front of the car, gave it a very refreshed look.