CARVIN
Moderate20 min6 steps·Original on iFixit ↗

1999-2006 BMW 3 Series Headlight Bulb Replacement

Does your 1999-2006 BMW Series 3 headlight no longer shine? This repair guide will allow you to replace your burned-out headlight bulb and rejoin the ranks of safe nighttime drivers. You will only need a few tools and less than an hour of your time to change the bulb. For the best repair experience, find a safe, warm, and clean place to work on your car and bring along a microfiber towel to keep from scratching anything.

Tools (6)

Parts (1)

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Step-by-step instructions

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1
  • Prior to beginning the repair, open the the hood of the car and disconnect the battery.
  • Remove the two bolts on top of the headlight assembly using an 8mm socket wrench.
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2
  • Start by placing your flathead screwdriver inside the [product|IF145-284|microfiber] towel.
  • Then, insert the covered flathead screwdriver in the vertical space below the headlight.
  • Next, push the screwdriver while wiggling it side to side against the small tab in the crack. By doing this action you will separate the trim under the headlight from the fender of the car.
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3
  • Slide the headlight assembly out.
  • Place the microfiber towel on the bumper; set the headlight assembly face down on it.
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4
  • Remove the four screws with the Phillips #2 screwdriver.
  • Next, remove the backing plate to gain access to the headlight bulb.
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5
  • Once the backing plate is removed, free the headlight bulb by pushing down on the retaining bracket. Push towards the direction of the red arrow.
  • Next, lift the retaining bracket and remove the headlight from the assembly.
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6
  • Once the headlight bulb is removed from the housing, separate the bulb from the connector by wiggling it out.
  • Do not grab the glass while attempting to remove the bulb from the connector. Instead grab the metal plate near the connector.
  • Lastly, insert your new bulb and follow the steps in reverse order to reassemble.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

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