Replacement of lamps of outdoor lighting devices (BMW 7 Series E38)

Incandescent lamps should only be replaced with lamps of the same type. Before replacing a lamp, make sure that the corresponding lighting device is switched off. Do not handle the incandescent lamp bulb with bare fingers, use a clean towel or cotton gloves. Fingerprints left on the bulb evaporate and settle on the reflector, which is especially noticeable on headlights and fog lights. Accidental fingerprints should be removed with an alcohol-soaked cloth. Do not wipe headlight reflectors covered with a protective varnish with a dry, hard cloth, or use any cleaners or solvents for this purpose. Use soft, damp cloths.

Halogen bulbs are under pressure and can crack. Therefore, when replacing them, use protective glasses and gloves. When replacing xenon bulbs, there is a risk of injury due to high voltage! Be sure to turn off the headlights and disconnect the electrical wiring from the battery. After replacing, briefly turn the headlight on and off to relieve residual voltage. As a safety precaution, wear shoes with rubber soles.

Headlight bulbs (parking, low and high beam)

1. Press the latches down and remove the lamp covers.



2. Disconnect the corresponding connector, remove the spring clip and take out the lamp.

To remove the parking light bulb, remove the socket and turn the bulb. Xenon headlight bulb

1. Release the clamp and remove the lamp cover.



2. Disconnect the lamp connector, remove the spring clip and take out the lamp.

Halogen fog light bulb

Remove the fog light (see section Removal and installation of other outdoor lighting devices), disconnect the connector underneath, remove the spring clip and take out the lamp.

Front turn signal lamp

1. Remove the front turn signal assembly (see section Removal and installation of other outdoor lighting devices).



2. Remove the turn signal bulb (1) from the socket (2) in the direction indicated by the arrow.

Rear combination light bulbs

1. Remove the luggage compartment side trim panel (see chapter Body).

2. Turn and remove the corresponding lamp holder.



3. Turn and remove the lamp from the socket.

License plate lights

1. Release the latch on the right side and pull out the license plate light.

2. Remove the lamp.

External door handle illumination lamps

1. Remove the door trim (see chapter Body).



2. Disconnect the center light source (1) from the bracket (2), disconnect the connector (3), and disconnect the fiber optic (4) from the center light source.

The bending radius of the optical fiber should not be less than 20 mm.

3. Open the bayonet lock of the central light source.



4. Remove the incandescent lamp (1) from the reflector (2) and replace it.