Changing W203 side light bulbs in a Bi-xenon lamp - what's the knack?

[Bobby Dazzler]

Now my digits fall well short of what you might describe as a bunch of bananas but I can't believe how difficult it is to reach the side light bulb within a W203 Bi-xenon headlamp unit.

I picked up two new bulbs tonight from the dealer - supposedly white rather than standard yellow glow - to replace a bulb that's gone, and to do the other side at the same time for a uniform look.

I had to give up after 5 minutes so I could look after the children freeing up Mrs D so she could go out - but I can't imagine it getting any easier with an hour to spare. The offside looks even more tricky!!

The manual isn't much help. It pretty much says, remove the cover, pull out the bulb holder, stick the new bulb in, and pop it all back together again. It doesn't mention that the aperature is teeny!!

Anyone got any tips? There must be a knack to it.

 

[nigel cross]

How old are the kids?
Children hands are smaller and they might be able to help you out

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

6.5 years and 14 months - now if only I could find a 9 year old...

 

[BlackC55]

Use a torch and its pretty straight forward. (honestly)

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

Thanks Olly.

The main beam and side lamp bulbs are completely separate aren't they - not the same holder?

I tried it with and without the wiring removed from the main beam bulb - does that need to be tucked out of the way?

Still couldn't get my fingers far enough in to get a grip.

 

[BlackC55]

Be patient. It will come out.

No need to remove the wires.

 

[Baron_Samedi]

Just a word of encouragement, I have banana fingers and the job is straightforward, honest!

I had more trouble with the caps that cover the main beam units

Out of interest though, do you have the part number for your bulbs?

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

I didn't get an invoice, but the part number will be on the pack - I'll let you know.

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

Finally changed the bulbs today.

Tried nearside first (again) and just couldn't get two digits on the capsule to remove it, so I tried offside and managed it somehow despite there being more obstacles around the rear of the headlamp.

One down, one to go so I though the nearside would be easier. Nope. It took Mrs D's more delicate fingers to get the capsule out!! New bulb in though, and replaced.

Not yet seen it in the dark but I'm sure it will be an improvement aesthetically, and fixed the dim nearside bulb I had before.

For those interested, the only number printed on the packaging appears to be: N 000000 006370 and is a 12v 5 W fitment - same as the originals but tinted blue - and purchased over the counter at my local MB dealer.

 

[Insain]

the main beam and sidelights are in the same holder

when you take the cap off - you will see a larger black wire going into the main beam bulb.

remove this - now you will have space to see the sidelight wire just below it.

change your sidelight bulbs around, put the wire back in, put the main beam wire back in, put cap on.

job done