Interior Light Bulbs — Replacement (BMW 3 Series E46)

Basic information

1. See paragraph 5. p. 1.

Interior lighting fixtures

2. Using a small flat-head screwdriver, carefully pull out the lampshade and disconnect its electrical connector. When removing the center lampshade (or rear lampshade on the "tourist" model), lower the rear corner of the unit and slide the unit off. Twist and remove the socket, then remove the bulb from the socket (fig. 6.2, a-c).







3. Insert the new bulb into the socket and install the unit in place. Keep in mind that when installing the central lampshade, first insert the front end, then insert the rear end.

Footwell Lighting Lamps

4. Carefully remove the lens from the block.

5. Remove the lamp from the contacts (Fig. 6.5).



6. Install the new bulb, then install the lens.

Luggage compartment light

7. See paragraphs 4-6.

Instrument cluster/signaling lights

8. The instrument panel has LED backlighting that cannot be replaced.

Glove box light

9. Open the glove box. Using a small flat-head screwdriver, carefully pry up the top edge of the unit and remove it. Remove the bulb from the contacts.

10. Insert the new bulb and make sure it is securely held in the contacts, then replace the unit.

Heater control panel illumination

Models with automatic air conditioning

11. The heater control panel in these models has LED backlighting that cannot be replaced. In case of malfunction, contact your BMW dealer.

Other models

12. Pull out the heater control buttons, then remove the screws and remove the outer panel from the control panel.

13. Using narrow pliers, turn the pump cartridge counterclockwise and remove it. On some models, the control panel has a backlight made of LEDs that are not replaceable.

14. Installation is carried out in the reverse order of removal.

Switch illumination lamps

15. All switches have lamps installed (lEDs) backlight. Some switches also have lamps (lEDs), signaling the circuit is on. In all switches, lamps (lEDs) cannot be replaced separately, so if the lamp fails, the switch assembly must be replaced.

Ashtray light

16. Remove the gearshift lever (selector) trim. Unscrew the two ashtray mounting screws located in the front of the trim socket.

17. Lift the bottom edge of the small item storage compartment and remove the unit from the front panel. Remove the two screws located at the top of the small item storage compartment socket and remove the support frame from the front panel.

18. Disconnect the wiring connector, press the two clips together and remove the socket. The lamp and socket form a single unit.

19. Installation is carried out in the reverse order of removal.