How to replace headlight bulb for BMW 3 Series (E46)
Model years: 1998 - 2006
Regarding road safety it's recommended to review if the headlights are not out of order. Usually breakdown of the headlight is caused by burned out bulb, that will require closer attention to monitor the route after the sunset. Moreover your car visibility will also be reduced in respect of other road users. If you noticed, that the headlight is not glowing anymore, be responsible and replace the bulb. Before getting ready to fix dead, make sure you acquire proper bulb. If you ever noticed another car with dormant headlight, do not hesitate and advise the driver to fix it. The chances of an accident will be decreased.
The life-time of a bulb is limited. Sooner or later, it will burn out and will have to be replaced. Bulbs, made of high quality materials, tend to last longer. It's recommended to use well known brand replacement bulbs.
If bulb burns out right after installation, your vehicle might have a problem inside electrical system - have it checked by auto electrician.
Tip: Never touch glass housing of a halogen bulb with your fingers. Greasy spots might cause premature failure of the bulb. Handle the bulb by its base or use a piece of clean paper when installing.
BMW 3 Series headlight bulb list:
| Body type | Position | Bulb specs | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coupe | High beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair | |
| Convertible | High beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair | |
| Sedan/saloon | High beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair | |
| Touring | High beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair | |
| Compact | High beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
| Low beam | Type: Halogen (H7) Voltage / Watts: 12V/55W | Amazon.com: $5.74pack of 1 $6.97pair Amazon.co.uk: £4.88pack of 1 £6.99pair |
How to replace headlight bulb:
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Disconnect the headlight's wiring that supplies power to a bulb (usually no tools are needed, use you hands).
3.
Remove the bulb cover by turning it counter-clockwise till it can be easily pulled out.
4.
Swing open the bulb retention clip by gripping and pressing it using your fingers.
5.
Remove old headlight bulb.
6.
Insert the replacement bulb regarding the notches on both, the holder and the bulb itself. Do not touch the glass part of the bulb as it might fail prematurely.
7.
Attach bulb retention clip.
8.
Apply bulb cover back.
9.
Plug the wiring back in.
10.
Test if headlights work.
Headlight bulb replacement instructions for:
3 Series (1990 - 1998)3 Series (2005 - 2011)3 Series (2011 - present)