I have to thank you for this. You saved me a ton of money with this video today! Your concise directions and photos made this so easy. This would have cost… a lot…to pay someone to do and you made it simple. Thank you!!!
Really appreciate your video. One of the low beams just went out on my 2012 X5 and, because it's a BMW, I was worried that the replacement would involve something complex like removing a fender or having to reset a setting in the ECU or PCM. So glad to see it's a straightforward replacement. Video is well done with a good use of graphics to explain motions involved to release covers and clips, something often overlooked in other DIY UA-cams. Thank you!
I agree with most that this is one of the best DIY videos on UA-cam! I just replaced my Xenon bulb for my 2010 X5. Since I too have large hands, it was a bit of a challenge to remove the plug from the original bulb in such close quarters. The total job took less than 30min. I bought the Sylvania brand bulb from Advance Auto Parts for $99 after my BMW dealer wanted to charge me over $200 for the bulb only and $71 for labor! I do think that the newer bulb is now noticeably brighter than the one not changed. I am currently debating wheater I'll spend the $99 and change the other. We'll see....
Sounds like you had great progress! If you do the other one, check Amazon for a D1s bulb, as you can get a name brand replacement for under $50. I have links in the video description for easy reference.
The step by step explanation is on-point. Note, a person w/ above average forearms will have a hard time w/ this repair, especially plugging the cord to the bulb. I really don’t understand why BMW couldn’t make the cord longer or access to the bulb easier. Weight lifters will have a hard time changing this bulb.
This video was SO helpful and explained it as clearly as possible! This headlight design is so unfortunate. My car is pretty old and that made all the fiddly bits of this process 10 times worse.
Thank you very much, that was easy and excellent tutorial, no much complicated as most other videos,, bye-bye dealer cost $250 and local mechanic store $175,, you made my day
A local shop wanted to charge me $250 to change one bulb. I got 2 xexnon bulbs from Amazon for $30 and was able to do the replacement myself. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for this video. Helped a lot when I replaced both the bulbs on my wife’s car. Was a bit more tricky than I had anticipated but saved a lot of money over getting it done at the dealership.
Great video. Need to do this on my daughter's x5 and your instructions are awesome. THANKS. Did it not long after posting my comment and it went great. Installed some bulbs from Amazon - brighter, whiter, and much better visibility at night than what was in there. Really odd on the us cars that the other lights in the headlight assemblies are just dummies.
Thanks for putting this together. Perfect instructions. 20 minutes to change both. I bought the Kensum D1S 2 pack for $29 on Amazon. Need some patience and focus in the small work area.
Great video! The dealer would have changed $250 for the bulb and I don't know how much to change it. Got a Sylvania bulb for $80 at Autozone and saved myself at least $200. Note: my X5 is a 2012. The 2012-2013's do not have the little wire retention clips that hold them in. In those years, the buld turns a quarter turn counter-clockwise to come out.
Thanks for sharing this Scott! I was stumped after not having the clips and it wasn't obvious what to try next, so my search began and then I thought I'll try the comments. And boom you solved the mystery for me, thank you!
Excellent tutorial I should be able to do this myself and thanks for putting the item in the description box. I will be replacing it as soon as it get here.
Thank you for the video, very helpful. One thing I recommend is when installing the bulb, put the bulb back in place first, then as the last step finger the electric plug in. That way, you reduce the risk of touching the bulb.
Thanks for the video.. you are so clear on the little metal tabs that look like paper clips and you said to give it the squeeze.. them other chicken never even explained it like you did. By the way I went to advance Auto parts and they charged me over $100 for my light bulb. They must have poked my eyes. 👀
Yes, the price of bulbs varies a lot, and retail with no coupons can be high. I’m sure you’ll be able to find a better deal when the other side is due!
Finally a DIY that gets to the point! However, mine didn't have that locking mechanism for some reason, a 2013 Premium, so I'm still trying to figure it out, I tried twice but nothing has worked:/
Thanks for the tip! Here's my take... The replacement in concept is really 'easy'... What makes it very difficult is the confined small cramped space. Disassembly of old light is easy... Putting it back is frustrating. You can't really see it... You have to one hand it, inserting the plug you'll need to get a feel for the connection. Once connected, you need to insert it and secure it with the wire clips. You can do one at a time. Then for the cap, give it a slight jostle (shimmy) until it lines up and pops back in. Good luck!
Impossible to do on a 2011 X5. After 3 and a half hours of struggling to do this one handed (because two hands will not fit) I have dropped the lamp. Good bye $100. Gonna pay someone and stop the bleeding of my hands but you sure made it look easy.
+FireBrew63 I'm glad it helped! The area is so dark and confined that it makes it very difficult to figure out how the bulb assembly works. Once you understand the principle, it's not all that bad. Good luck!
Thank you very much - it is really good described and showed during the video - need to replace my right side Headlight tomorrow - hope that i am smart like you, bro.
Thanks for the video. It's easier to do one clip at a time! I did the passenger side and space is tight but was able to get it done, but took much longer than here. Plug the light in before putting it back. BMW could have moved one of their "supports" for the fender either 1" in front or about 4" back and it would have been much easier. Bought bulb from link below (Phillips DS1) around $50 with coupon. BMW quoted me $243 for the bulb only no installation.
I replaced these xenon bulbs on my 2012 X5 with LED bulbs and they are much brighter and light up the road far better without bothering oncoming drivers.
This is a great video unti you make it a 2.5 hour dilemma. First step. You drop the bulb into the inner fender bay. NO you can’t reach the fallen bulb with a hand. Don’t try. Next grabbed a metal hotdog stick and a cell phone on video. Then you can watch yourself scoot the the bulb inboard to an opening in the front of the bay and retrieve it with a gloved hand and begin again with installation.
Having helped with this process. Make sure you keep a firm grip on bulb :) :(. This is a great video though and really helped. BMW does not give you much room to navigate.
Helpful Hints: -Not all the E70’s have the clips holding the xenon light bulb. -If you cannot turn the bulb, pick up a crescent wrench from Harbor Freight for $12, you want the crescent wrench that has the least angle and as straight as possible, and the shorter handle. Draw the shape of the square bulb on a piece of paper and take it to the store with you to be sure you’re buying the “smallest crescent that will fit” the square shape of the bulb encasement. Go straight in with the the crescent wrench after removing the xenon power connector. The passenger side is the must difficult and you may need the crescent if you cannot turn the bulb when removing and replacing. Good luck! Bring a couple of extra F-words with you you’ll need them. These bulbs can be a total Karen to remove and replace but you’ll get it. 👍👍
Just purchased a set of D1S LED 50w on Amazon for $100 for my '13 X5 E70. Will be upgrading my 35w 6000k HID with those LED. Really hope it's a plug and play upgrade.
Yes, it’s tedious to work in those tight quarters, but ultimately less hassle than having a shop do it (making an appointment/driving/waiting/etc). I’m happy to hear you were successful!
Managed to complete, however, my left (drivers) beam is still having problems. It states on the computer inside left beam malfunction too. Any guidance why this may be? 2013 X5 35d
I recently changed my driver side headlight using your instructions. Worked well, Thanks. My only issue is that my high beam no longer works. The low beam works just fine on that side. Strange right? What do you think it could be?
It sounds like you may have a defective bulb. If it’s not a huge hassle, I’d try to get replacement from your vendor. If you want to be sure the bulb is the issue before you get a replacement, you can try the bulb from the other side of the car for confirmation.
There are insects inside of headlight. Do you think I can take out light bulbs and vacuum them from inside? I don't want to remove the whole headlight assembly part...
I was thinking about getting led lights instead but I'm not sure if they're H11 or different. Do you know which bulb it is? My bmw has the D1S xenons and they're only 35w so they're not that bright
Thanks very much for this. It was extremely helpful. Successfully changed headlights without issue. Unfortunately, I went to change DRL (Daytime Running Light) and it fell into the housing. Do you know of a way to retrieve? It is no longer visible. I've tried a small gripper that you would use for clearing a drain and even a vacuum. Any other thoughts on how I can get to it without removing the entire housing. Thanks again!
Sorry to hear about that, it’s frustrating to lose parts down in the engine compartment. One possibility is to use on of those expandable rods with the magnet at the end. As long as part of the lightbulb is magnetic (I think it is, but would need to test), you might get lucky and snag it out with the magnet. The trick is the magnet will be attracted to all sorts of metal parts on the car along the way.
Thanks, but the video didn't match my 2013 X5. Mine doesn't have any clips, instead the bulb needs to be turned counterclockwise to be dislodged, and clockwise to secure the new one. It was a pain in the butt to figure out the position the new bulb should be in, in order to start securing it in place, my best approximation the cord connector should be at 4 o'clock position in order to travel to 6 o'clock. Interesting tidbit - both driver and passenger side bulbs have to be rotated in the counterclockwise direction to dislodge them.
Thanks for the tutorial though you didn't say anything about the fatal electric shock warning in the manual and on engine/headlight. I was able to take the cover off of the xenon bulb encasement but am nervous about electrocuting myself. Are we supposed to disconnect the battery first? My 2013 X5 doesn't have the wire clips so based on other comments we're supposed to do a 1/4 turn counterclockwise? Please advise. It looks so simple but don't want to injure myself.
As long as your car is off and the key isn’t in the ignition, theoretically there shouldn’t be any power going to the lights. I’m not a licensed electrician, but these bulbs are definitely meant to be replaced by the owner, so I can’t imagine there would be high risk. As others have commented, BMW changed the wire clips for a 1/4 turn setup (same as the daytime running light bulb), which should be easier to manage.
The whole job is basically blind, and it’s tricky to get it done, especially in the small space you have to work with. I’m happy to hear you got through it!
Great video! I replaced both day time running light and xenon light and still not working. I have a 2011 X5 . Don't know what to do any more, I don't want to take it to BMW dealer because I know they'll charge me fortune. What do you think is wrong? I appreciate your help. Thanks.
+FSelva it's tough to say. I would rule out obvious things like dirty contacts on the connector (clean them well if they are at all questionable) or a defective bulb (try the known good bulb from the other side and test it on the bad side). With any luck, it's one of those two things.
I too appreciate the thoroughness of the stepped instructions. However, I found it impossible to change the passenger side headlamp for several reasons. The braided connector cord does not pull up and out above the crowded mess to easily replace the bulb. … mine only comes out about 6” so I have to remove the bulb and insert and install the new one with no room to maneuver “below” without damaging the new bulb. I even rehearsed inserting the new bulb and housing back into the socket sight unseen (using the old one) and it was impossible. I think the instructions may work well for the driver-side (a lot more room) but did not work for me on the passenger side. …. and I am a former Navy diver used to working underwater by feel. Tom A
I had the same problem with the connector cord length (mine only about 4 ") . I was ready to quit after an hour or more of trying. Couldn't imagine how I could attach the bulb to the connector with one hand only without being able to see and with the connector freely floating around the cramped space The next morning I had an idea and connected a common spring loaded clip to one end of a thin rod and used it to grasp the braided cable. Now I could use my other hand to keep the cord/ connector near the replacement insert. Eventually I was able to guide the two together and seat the connectors. Re all the other comments, I don't understand how anyone could do this as described in the video. Maybe my year/ model has an exceptionally short connector cable coming out of the headlamp socket.
I have personally watched this video 745 times - I'm a bit slow with this stuff clearly. And it took me about an hour for one with my big ham hock hands in those tiny Beemer crevases and it felt incredible and your video was amazing at describing the process otherwise I would have never got it done at all. Here's THE RUB though.... I had purchased two bulbs to just replace both at the same time. I actually DROPPED the first one down the cavity somewhere and I've reached all around and cannot find it!!! I'm not kidding haha. Any ideas how to fish it out? Is it dangerous stuck in there you think? Thank you MMM!
Hello I have a 2013 BMW X5 but my headlight low beam does not have that clip and it's un-pparent how to remove it to you know anything about that thanks
@@scottm2770 that was a great reply... it was about 1/8 turn counter-clockwise www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/e70-x5-xdrive35i-sav/repair-manuals/63-lights/63-12-headlight/OoGYZNk
+lilpoosky tough to say without seeing it. If you get a picture of it, shoot it over to rob@motorsmegabytesmods and I'll try and help you figure it out.
Hey, so I have a 2012 and have a different design than this. For 2012 and 2013 the bulb twist counter clockwise to remove. Please put this in your descriptions. Thanks.
@@motorsmegabytesmods9936 Hi. Thanks for posting the instruction video. I swapped the passenger side bulb with RCP - D1S6 - (A Pair) D1S/ D1R 6000K Xenon HID Replacement Bulb Diamond White Metal Stents Base 12V Car Headlight Lamps Head Lights 35WRCP from Amazon. However, it is now just a fixed (low, I think) beam. Is there a second bulb for low or high beam? I understood the D1S bulb provided both high and low beams, but is that not the case? I've inquired with the mfr also, as I suspect a faulty bulb. I'm trying to determine if the bulb provides the dual beam, or does the projector lens move somehow to adjust the same bulb between high and low? Thanks for any help. I replaced the bulb, but my mitts could not reconnect the cable. Used my wife's small hands instead. :)
Greetings, Ken! You’re correct, the D1S bulb handles both the high and low beam. This is the bulb in the outermost headlight. The headlight to the inside of it on the X5 is the daytime running light. It sounds like you have have a faulty bulb if the one of the beams (high or low) isn’t working. I’d have to look up the bulb you bought, but the cheap ones can be a crap shoot. Good luck getting it working, I’m sure a swap of the bulb will get you back in action.
you totally gave us all the OBVIOUS things to do,,, I got my lid open gee thanks.. I got to the bulb and removed it, fck ouch hands too big to fit.. there is no way I can do this in reverse with my forearms and hands. The cable is much to short to attempt to connect it to the bulb prior to inserting it. It would be useful to see a Technique on video of the contortionist maneuvers required.
Hi Superman - in the video, I show an access panel for the daytime running light bulb (46 seconds into the video). That is a standard halogen bulb and also lights the angel eye rings. Rotate the knob for that panel about a quarter turn (maybe 1/8 turn), and it will pop off. You then have access to the halogen bulb, which is removed with a 1/4 or 1/8 turn. There's a link to the bulb in the video description.
The way you describe how to actually do each individual step is amazing. I wish more people that do tutorials would go into it the same detail thanks!
Best video I've seen on this, most of the others you can barely get any idea of how to do it.
Still today I can tell you that this is the best tutorial for this. Thank you for your time.
Great video, short, sweet, classy background, music, good editing showing everything in detail; made this job so easy for me. Thank you.
Nice straight forward video, no bla bla, directly focusing on the point. Thanks a lot for sharing
I have to thank you for this. You saved me a ton of money with this video today! Your concise directions and photos made this so easy. This would have cost… a lot…to pay someone to do and you made it simple. Thank you!!!
Same same! They wanted 350 to replace,!😊
Really appreciate your video. One of the low beams just went out on my 2012 X5 and, because it's a BMW, I was worried that the replacement would involve something complex like removing a fender or having to reset a setting in the ECU or PCM. So glad to see it's a straightforward replacement. Video is well done with a good use of graphics to explain motions involved to release covers and clips, something often overlooked in other DIY UA-cams. Thank you!
I agree with most that this is one of the best DIY videos on UA-cam! I just replaced my Xenon bulb for my 2010 X5. Since I too have large hands, it was a bit of a challenge to remove the plug from the original bulb in such close quarters. The total job took less than 30min. I bought the Sylvania brand bulb from Advance Auto Parts for $99 after my BMW dealer wanted to charge me over $200 for the bulb only and $71 for labor! I do think that the newer bulb is now noticeably brighter than the one not changed. I am currently debating wheater I'll spend the $99 and change the other. We'll see....
Sounds like you had great progress! If you do the other one, check Amazon for a D1s bulb, as you can get a name brand replacement for under $50. I have links in the video description for easy reference.
Hope u bought it
The step by step explanation is on-point. Note, a person w/ above average forearms will have a hard time w/ this repair, especially plugging the cord to the bulb. I really don’t understand why BMW couldn’t make the cord longer or access to the bulb easier. Weight lifters will have a hard time changing this bulb.
I've found this process to be almost impossible, even with medium sized hands and small wrists. It is unbelievably difficult.
@@EnsignpeakRidiculously hard man I was trying to change the light for almost 2 hours just want find out I did the wrong side 🤦
This video was SO helpful and explained it as clearly as possible! This headlight design is so unfortunate. My car is pretty old and that made all the fiddly bits of this process 10 times worse.
Hi from South Africa. Great video! Thanks for making it. Short and to-the-point.
Thank you very much, that was easy and excellent tutorial, no much complicated as most other videos,, bye-bye dealer cost $250 and local mechanic store $175,, you made my day
A local shop wanted to charge me $250 to change one bulb. I got 2 xexnon bulbs from Amazon for $30 and was able to do the replacement myself. Thanks for the video!
It's a really difficult job though
Perfect "how to" video. Way to go👍 quick, clear, concise. Thank you
Thanks for this video. Helped a lot when I replaced both the bulbs on my wife’s car. Was a bit more tricky than I had anticipated but saved a lot of money over getting it done at the dealership.
The best tutorial thus far was able to follow your exact steps and change the bulb myself and saved myself a ton of money. Thanks
that is one of the best and easiest videos i has ever seen thank you so much . keep them coming
This video really helped! It's a tight compartment and most of the work has to be done by feel but it's very doable.....thanks for posting!
Great video. Need to do this on my daughter's x5 and your instructions are awesome. THANKS.
Did it not long after posting my comment and it went great. Installed some bulbs from Amazon - brighter, whiter, and much better visibility at night than what was in there. Really odd on the us cars that the other lights in the headlight assemblies are just dummies.
Thanks for putting this together. Perfect instructions. 20 minutes to change both. I bought the Kensum D1S 2 pack for $29 on Amazon.
Need some patience and focus in the small work area.
Excellent! I’m glad to hear your were successful, with minimal pain!
Dude. Thank you. Concise. Accurate. Nothing missing.
thank you brother, I could change bulb easily watching your video.
Great video! The dealer would have changed $250 for the bulb and I don't know how much to change it. Got a Sylvania bulb for $80 at Autozone and saved myself at least $200. Note: my X5 is a 2012. The 2012-2013's do not have the little wire retention clips that hold them in. In those years, the buld turns a quarter turn counter-clockwise to come out.
I’m glad to hear you were able to tackle it yourself, and thank you for the note on the change for 2012-13!
Yes thank you for this the manual does not mention this and neither does this video
Yes , the 2013 E70 model ( with quarter-turn access ) is all HID lights ( two per side ) and LED Halo , just like the following F15
Thanks for sharing this Scott! I was stumped after not having the clips and it wasn't obvious what to try next, so my search began and then I thought I'll try the comments. And boom you solved the mystery for me, thank you!
I got 2010 x5 30i you think mind will be easy to remove
Excellent tutorial I should be able to do this myself and thanks for putting the item in the description box. I will be replacing it as soon as it get here.
Love the video. Very well explained and in under 5 minutes!
Thank you for the video, very helpful. One thing I recommend is when installing the bulb, put the bulb back in place first, then as the last step finger the electric plug in. That way, you reduce the risk of touching the bulb.
Thanks for the video.. you are so clear on the little metal tabs that look like paper clips and you said to give it the squeeze..
them other chicken never even explained it like you did.
By the way I went to advance Auto parts and they charged me over $100 for my light bulb. They must have poked my eyes. 👀
Yes, the price of bulbs varies a lot, and retail with no coupons can be high. I’m sure you’ll be able to find a better deal when the other side is due!
Great video made changing my bulb a 5 minute job!
Finally a DIY that gets to the point! However, mine didn't have that locking mechanism for some reason, a 2013 Premium, so I'm still trying to figure it out, I tried twice but nothing has worked:/
Dude... this was an awesome video. Thank you for posting this!!
Thanks for the tip! Here's my take... The replacement in concept is really 'easy'... What makes it very difficult is the confined small cramped space. Disassembly of old light is easy... Putting it back is frustrating. You can't really see it... You have to one hand it, inserting the plug you'll need to get a feel for the connection. Once connected, you need to insert it and secure it with the wire clips. You can do one at a time. Then for the cap, give it a slight jostle (shimmy) until it lines up and pops back in. Good luck!
Thanks for the quick and down to the point guide.
Impossible to do on a 2011 X5. After 3 and a half hours of struggling to do this one handed (because two hands will not fit) I have dropped the lamp. Good bye $100. Gonna pay someone and stop the bleeding of my hands but you sure made it look easy.
Thanks for making this video. I've been poking my fingers around trying to figure this out.
+FireBrew63 I'm glad it helped! The area is so dark and confined that it makes it very difficult to figure out how the bulb assembly works. Once you understand the principle, it's not all that bad. Good luck!
Do you not find it really difficult to attach the cable again
Many thanks for the super clear step by step vid! Greetings from Sweden!
No worries, I hope it helped!
I did it. Thanks for posting the video. I was scare breaking new the bulb since it's got a thin wire right next to it.
Well done!
Thank you very much - it is really good described and showed during the video - need to replace my right side Headlight tomorrow - hope that i am smart like you, bro.
THX a lot! A clear and concise howto.
Thank you! It was tough, but it worked. :)
Thanks for the video. It's easier to do one clip at a time! I did the passenger side and space is tight but was able to get it done, but took much longer than here. Plug the light in before putting it back. BMW could have moved one of their "supports" for the fender either 1" in front or about 4" back and it would have been much easier. Bought bulb from link below (Phillips DS1) around $50 with coupon. BMW quoted me $243 for the bulb only no installation.
I replaced these xenon bulbs on my 2012 X5 with LED bulbs and they are much brighter and light up the road far better without bothering oncoming drivers.
Wish that cable was a little longer. Dropped the first bulb into the wheel well. Good thing I had a pair. Will retrieve the other someday.
I did this today such a difficult job.. Took me 2hrs to change both and my arm is scratched all over
Worth it just to hear how you pronounced Xenon
WoW, man! Thanks a ton. Hi from Russia.
Clear and explained well why thank you!
Excellent video. Thanks. $256 for a new bulb at BMW of Fort Lauderdale. $39 for two on line!
Thank you. This was sooooo helpful
Thanks for the video, very helpful.
Excellent video. Thanks for posting it.
Nice one. Thank you for this video my friend
This is a great video unti you make it a 2.5 hour dilemma. First step. You drop the bulb into the inner fender bay. NO you can’t reach the fallen bulb with a hand. Don’t try. Next grabbed a metal hotdog stick and a cell phone on video. Then you can watch yourself scoot the the bulb inboard to an opening in the front of the bay and retrieve it with a gloved hand and begin again with installation.
Having helped with this process. Make sure you keep a firm grip on bulb :) :(. This is a great video though and really helped. BMW does not give you much room to navigate.
Great job!! Thank you.
Helpful Hints:
-Not all the E70’s have the clips holding the xenon light bulb.
-If you cannot turn the bulb, pick up a crescent wrench from Harbor Freight for $12, you want the crescent wrench that has the least angle and as straight as possible, and the shorter handle. Draw the shape of the square bulb on a piece of paper and take it to the store with you to be sure you’re buying the “smallest crescent that will fit” the square shape of the bulb encasement.
Go straight in with the the crescent wrench after removing the xenon power connector. The passenger side is the must difficult and you may need the crescent if you cannot turn the bulb when removing and replacing. Good luck!
Bring a couple of extra F-words with you you’ll need them. These bulbs can be a total Karen to remove and replace but you’ll get it. 👍👍
Just purchased a set of D1S LED 50w on Amazon for $100 for my '13 X5 E70. Will be upgrading my 35w 6000k HID with those LED. Really hope it's a plug and play upgrade.
Excellent, thank you!
Wow thx so much! Worked!
Thanks for the video. And worth the 10-15 minutes worth of cussing. It took longer to drive to buy a light than it did to put it in.
Yes, it’s tedious to work in those tight quarters, but ultimately less hassle than having a shop do it (making an appointment/driving/waiting/etc). I’m happy to hear you were successful!
Managed to complete, however, my left (drivers) beam is still having problems. It states on the computer inside left beam malfunction too. Any guidance why this may be? 2013 X5 35d
Great Video Rob. Can the xenon bulb be replaced with a LED bulb? Thanks.
Is it the same process for the 2011 BMW X6 Xdrive50i ? Looked everywhere but can't find the answer.
I recently changed my driver side headlight using your instructions. Worked well, Thanks. My only issue is that my high beam no longer works. The low beam works just fine on that side. Strange right? What do you think it could be?
It sounds like you may have a defective bulb. If it’s not a huge hassle, I’d try to get replacement from your vendor. If you want to be sure the bulb is the issue before you get a replacement, you can try the bulb from the other side of the car for confirmation.
Not sure why, but our 2013 E70 X5 did NOT have the pinch clips. All that was required was a 1/4 twist of the bulb.
I wish they'd put this comment at the top! I spent a while wondering what was up with no clips on my car.
Mine either? How’d you get it out?
Great video
Good video!
Very helpful thanks!
very clear, thank you so much.
Good job
There are insects inside of headlight. Do you think I can take out light bulbs and vacuum them from inside? I don't want to remove the whole headlight assembly part...
I was thinking about getting led lights instead but I'm not sure if they're H11 or different. Do you know which bulb it is? My bmw has the D1S xenons and they're only 35w so they're not that bright
THANKS DUDE!!!!!!!!!
What are those thin wires? My x5 does not have them
What is it called? Should i buy and pit these on my bulb??
Is the halo the same bulb as the high/low beam? Thanks
Thanks very much for this. It was extremely helpful. Successfully changed headlights without issue. Unfortunately, I went to change DRL (Daytime Running Light) and it fell into the housing. Do you know of a way to retrieve? It is no longer visible. I've tried a small gripper that you would use for clearing a drain and even a vacuum. Any other thoughts on how I can get to it without removing the entire housing. Thanks again!
Sorry to hear about that, it’s frustrating to lose parts down in the engine compartment. One possibility is to use on of those expandable rods with the magnet at the end. As long as part of the lightbulb is magnetic (I think it is, but would need to test), you might get lucky and snag it out with the magnet. The trick is the magnet will be attracted to all sorts of metal parts on the car along the way.
Thanks, but the video didn't match my 2013 X5. Mine doesn't have any clips, instead the bulb needs to be turned counterclockwise to be dislodged, and clockwise to secure the new one. It was a pain in the butt to figure out the position the new bulb should be in, in order to start securing it in place, my best approximation the cord connector should be at 4 o'clock position in order to travel to 6 o'clock. Interesting tidbit - both driver and passenger side bulbs have to be rotated in the counterclockwise direction to dislodge them.
Thanks for the tutorial though you didn't say anything about the fatal electric shock warning in the manual and on engine/headlight. I was able to take the cover off of the xenon bulb encasement but am nervous about electrocuting myself. Are we supposed to disconnect the battery first? My 2013 X5 doesn't have the wire clips so based on other comments we're supposed to do a 1/4 turn counterclockwise? Please advise. It looks so simple but don't want to injure myself.
As long as your car is off and the key isn’t in the ignition, theoretically there shouldn’t be any power going to the lights. I’m not a licensed electrician, but these bulbs are definitely meant to be replaced by the owner, so I can’t imagine there would be high risk.
As others have commented, BMW changed the wire clips for a 1/4 turn setup (same as the daytime running light bulb), which should be easier to manage.
@@motorsmegabytesmods9936 Please add a note to the video description. Thanks!
Good video but you left out the hardest part, plugging that dang plug back in! Holy smokes that was frustrating.
The whole job is basically blind, and it’s tricky to get it done, especially in the small space you have to work with. I’m happy to hear you got through it!
Great video! I replaced both day time running light and xenon light and still not working. I have a 2011 X5 . Don't know what to do any more, I don't want to take it to BMW dealer because I know they'll charge me fortune. What do you think is wrong? I appreciate your help. Thanks.
+FSelva specifically which lights are out? All four lights, or just one side? If only one of the xenon lights are out, it could be your ballast.
Thank you for that reply. It's the day time running lights (left side only)
+FSelva it's tough to say. I would rule out obvious things like dirty contacts on the connector (clean them well if they are at all questionable) or a defective bulb (try the known good bulb from the other side and test it on the bad side). With any luck, it's one of those two things.
Thank you! Will do that.
I too appreciate the thoroughness of the stepped instructions. However, I found it impossible to change the passenger side headlamp for several reasons.
The braided connector cord does not pull up and out above the crowded mess to easily replace the bulb. … mine only comes out about 6” so I have to remove the bulb and insert and install the new one with no room to maneuver “below” without damaging the new bulb. I even rehearsed inserting the new bulb and housing back into the socket sight unseen (using the old one) and it was impossible. I think the instructions may work well for the driver-side (a lot more room) but did not work for me on the passenger side. …. and I am a former Navy diver used to working underwater by feel.
Tom A
… and my car is a 2008 X5
I had the same problem with the connector cord length (mine only about 4 ") . I was ready to quit after an hour or more of trying. Couldn't imagine how I could attach the bulb to the connector with one hand only without being able to see and with the connector freely floating around the cramped space
The next morning I had an idea and connected a common spring loaded clip to one end of a thin rod and used it to grasp the braided cable. Now I could use my other hand to keep the cord/ connector near the replacement insert. Eventually I was able to guide the two together and seat the connectors. Re all the other comments, I don't understand how anyone could do this as described in the video. Maybe my year/ model has an exceptionally short connector cable coming out of the headlamp socket.
I can not get it!!!! 2013 X5. I can't even get my arthritic hand in there
Thank you!
Can you show us how to replace the Day Time Running light on 2012 X5? It doesn't seem as easy as you mentioned.
+Chicago Boy I'll work on putting something together for the other bulb.
The same thing
I have personally watched this video 745 times - I'm a bit slow with this stuff clearly. And it took me about an hour for one with my big ham hock hands in those tiny Beemer crevases and it felt incredible and your video was amazing at describing the process otherwise I would have never got it done at all. Here's THE RUB though.... I had purchased two bulbs to just replace both at the same time. I actually DROPPED the first one down the cavity somewhere and I've reached all around and cannot find it!!! I'm not kidding haha. Any ideas how to fish it out? Is it dangerous stuck in there you think? Thank you MMM!
Hi :D Thanks for an educational video :D My bmw x5 is from 2003. Can I use the same bulb you used even though your car is a younger model? Thanks :D
Is this the same on an x6?
How about a blinker replacement????
Weird, mine looks the same but no clips on either side
In 2011+, I believe they changed from the clips to a quarter turn locking mechanism, similar to that on the driving lights.
is the same for 09 x6?
Thanks
Hello I have a 2013 BMW X5 but my headlight low beam does not have that clip and it's un-pparent how to remove it to you know anything about that thanks
I wonder if you twist it a quarter turn counter-clockwise?
@@scottm2770 that was a great reply... it was about 1/8 turn counter-clockwise
www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/e70-x5-xdrive35i-sav/repair-manuals/63-lights/63-12-headlight/OoGYZNk
where the adblue location for bmw x5 2007?
My 2013 X5 does not have the two retention clips behind the D1S igniter as shown in your video. Thoughts on how to remove the bulb?
+lilpoosky tough to say without seeing it. If you get a picture of it, shoot it over to rob@motorsmegabytesmods and I'll try and help you figure it out.
Having the same problem
Same here - my 2012 model X5 also doesn’t have the retention clips as shown in this video. Everything else looks the same though.
Hey, so I have a 2012 and have a different design than this. For 2012 and 2013 the bulb twist counter clockwise to remove. Please put this in your descriptions. Thanks.
So you’re saying that the xenon bulb open with a ~1/8 turn and pulls out like the low beam, and has no wire retention clips?
Easy to get out… he didn’t tell us you need to be a spider monkey to get it back in 😂
Thanks)
only D2S work? Does D1S not fit the x5 f70?
thanks!
For the E70 X5, I believe D1S is for the Xenon high and low beams, and H7 is for the driving lights.
@@motorsmegabytesmods9936 Hi. Thanks for posting the instruction video. I swapped the passenger side bulb with RCP - D1S6 - (A Pair) D1S/ D1R 6000K Xenon HID Replacement Bulb Diamond White Metal Stents Base 12V Car Headlight Lamps Head Lights 35WRCP from Amazon. However, it is now just a fixed (low, I think) beam. Is there a second bulb for low or high beam? I understood the D1S bulb provided both high and low beams, but is that not the case? I've inquired with the mfr also, as I suspect a faulty bulb. I'm trying to determine if the bulb provides the dual beam, or does the projector lens move somehow to adjust the same bulb between high and low? Thanks for any help. I replaced the bulb, but my mitts could not reconnect the cable. Used my wife's small hands instead. :)
Greetings, Ken! You’re correct, the D1S bulb handles both the high and low beam. This is the bulb in the outermost headlight. The headlight to the inside of it on the X5 is the daytime running light. It sounds like you have have a faulty bulb if the one of the beams (high or low) isn’t working. I’d have to look up the bulb you bought, but the cheap ones can be a crap shoot. Good luck getting it working, I’m sure a swap of the bulb will get you back in action.
3.5d?
How can I replace my X6 also
you totally gave us all the OBVIOUS things to do,,, I got my lid open gee thanks.. I got to the bulb and removed it, fck ouch hands too big to fit.. there is no way I can do this in reverse with my forearms and hands. The cable is much to short to attempt to connect it to the bulb prior to inserting it. It would be useful to see a Technique on video of the contortionist maneuvers required.
where might I find the access to the Angel eyes?
Hi Superman - in the video, I show an access panel for the daytime running light bulb (46 seconds into the video). That is a standard halogen bulb and also lights the angel eye rings. Rotate the knob for that panel about a quarter turn (maybe 1/8 turn), and it will pop off. You then have access to the halogen bulb, which is removed with a 1/4 or 1/8 turn. There's a link to the bulb in the video description.
Thank you so much :)
how do I unplug the wire tho???
Just pull.
If you need help opening the hood leave this job to a professional 👌
You can also change just the bulb without the electric I think for much less, bulb cost 10