How to replace tail light bulb for BMW 3 Series (E46)

Model years: 1998 - 2006
Tail lights (aka rear lamps) are situated at the rear light cluster of the vehicle, which main function is to improve vehicle exposure on the road. These lamps produce red light in the same way as brake lamps, though the latter generates more intensive light. Commonly tail lamps will be activated till front low beam lights are turned on. It's relevant that tail lamps are not obstructed by the cargo, otherwise it might be difficult to notice the vehicle. The same consequence happens in a case of a defective tail light, hence do not delay and take care about bulb replacement.

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.


BMW 3 Series tail light bulb list:
Body type Position Bulb specs Buy
Coupe
Taillight
(1999-2004)
Type: Single Filament Bulb (P21W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21W
Amazon.com:
$7.46pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£5.94pair
Taillight
(2004-2006)
Type: LED
Taillight
(1999-2004)
Type: Twin Fillament Bulb (P21/4W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21/4W
Amazon.com:
$7.49pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£6.75pair
Convertible
Taillight
(2000-2004)
Type: Single Filament Bulb (P21W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21W
Amazon.com:
$7.46pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£5.94pair
Taillight
(2004-2006)
Type: LED
Taillight
(2000-2004)
Type: Twin Fillament Bulb (P21/4W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21/4W
Amazon.com:
$7.49pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£6.75pair
Sedan/saloon
Taillight
(2001-2006)
Type: Single Filament Bulb (P21W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21W
Amazon.com:
$7.46pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£5.94pair
Taillight
(1998-2001)
Type: Single Filament Bulb (P21W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21W
Amazon.com:
$7.46pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£5.94pair
Taillight
(1998-2001)
Type: Twin Fillament Bulb (P21/4W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21/4W
Amazon.com:
$7.49pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£6.75pair
Touring
Taillight
Type: Single Filament Bulb (P21W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21W
Amazon.com:
$7.46pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£5.94pair
Taillight
Type: Twin Fillament Bulb (P21/4W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21/4W
Amazon.com:
$7.49pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£6.75pair
Compact
Taillight
Type: Single Filament Bulb (P21W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21W
Amazon.com:
$7.46pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£5.94pair
Taillight
Type: Twin Fillament Bulb (P21/4W)
Voltage / Watts: 12V/21/4W
Amazon.com:
$7.49pair
Amazon.co.uk:
£6.75pair

How to replace tail light bulb:
1. Open the trunk.
2. Remove rear lights cluster cover.
3. Pull out the lights assembly.
4. Locate tail light bulb.
5. Remove old bulb.
6. Insert the replacement bulb.
7. Apply rear lights cluster back.
8. Apply rear lights cluster cover.
9. Test if tail lights work.