How to replace headlight bulb for BMW 1 Series (F20, F21)

Model years: 2011 - present
To make sure you are fully visible on the road it's suggested to verify whether the headlights are functioning well. Primarily decayed bulb is a ground for an unworkable headlight, therefore obstacles on the road can become harder to notice at the hours of darkness. Besides that your automobile might be less noticeable in respect of other road users. If the headlight has gone out, get a new bulb and replace the old one immediately. Just before mending inoperative headlight, make sure you purchase suitable bulb. Whenever detected the headlight failure on stranger's automobile, throw away any doubts and let the driver know about it. The favor will be beneficial for other road users and the driver itself.

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 1 Series headlight bulb list:
Body type Position Bulb specs Buy
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
Three-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

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. To access the bulb, turn the bulb holder counterclockwise and remove it from the headlight housing:
5. Remove the old bulb from its holder and replace it with the new one.
6. High beam bulb can be accessed via engine compartment.
7. Locate bulb covering cap and remove it by turning 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:
1 Series (2004 - 2011)