How to replace headlight bulb for BMW 5 Series (F10, F11, F07)

Model years: 2009 - present
To ensure the safety of our own and others it's advisable to examine whether the headlights are glowing. The most common problem is the failure of a bulb, what will result in reduced road visibility at the hours of darkness. Also the vehicle with failed headlight is less notable in a view of other drivers. Whenever noticed, that the headlight is not functioning anymore, get a new bulb and replace the old one immediately. Just before mending inoperative headlight, assure you get the right bulb. If managed to spot headlight failure on somebody's vehicle, please be responsible and tell the driver about 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 5 Series headlight bulb list:
Body type Position Bulb specs Buy
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
Low beam
Type: Gas discharge (D1S)
Voltage / Watts: 85V/35W
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
Low beam
Type: Gas discharge (D1S)
Voltage / Watts: 85V/35W
Five-door hatchback
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
Low beam
Type: Gas discharge (D1S)
Voltage / Watts: 85V/35W

How to replace headlight bulb:
1. Low beam bulb can be accessed through the wheel house (arch). To make bulb access easier, turn the wheel inwards.
2. Remove the cover in the wheel housing:
3. Locate low beam bulb covering cap and remove it by turning counterclockwise:
4. Remove bulb from the holder.
5. Disconnect wiring from the bulb.
6. To access high beam bulb open the hood, locate the cover and open it:
7. Under the cover locate the cap. To remove the cap, turn it counterclockwise:
8. To access the bulb, turn the bulb holder counterclockwise and remove it from the headlight housing:
9. Remove the old bulb from its holder and replace it with the new one.
Headlight bulb replacement instructions for:
5 Series (1995 - 2003)5 Series (2003 - 2010)