Lighting - Incandescent And Halogen Bulb Replacement
SI M63 01 11
Lights
March 2011
Technical Service
SUBJECT
Light Bulb Replacement - Incandescent and Halogen Light Bulbs
MODEL
All
SITUATION
Functional testing of incandescent and halogen light bulbs replaced under warranty and returned to the Warranty Parts Return Center (WPRC), along
with the analysis of light bulb claim data, shows that some of these light bulbs are:
^ Being replaced unnecessarily;
^ Incorrectly handled during a previous repair or replacement; or
^ Not replaced, as a set, when they should have been.
This can result in unnecessary additional warranty costs, service visits and reduced customer satisfaction.
Note:
The situation above does not apply to Xenon bulbs, which may only be replaced as instructed after running the corresponding ISTA test plan.
PROCEDURE
When replacing incandescent and halogen light bulbs, always follow the guidelines listed below:
1. Before replacing these light bulbs, confirm that they are defective (most times, a broken filament can be seen visually). If there is no visual
confirmation, test the bulb using a multimeter or 12-volt power supply with a suitable bulb holder to confirm that the bulb is defective.
2. A failed light bulb with distinctly "blackened" glass indicates a failure. In situations where the failed vehicle bulb has a "twin" with the same
function (for example, left and right parking lights, license plate bulbs, etc.), replace the other bulb if it is also found to be "blackened" in the same
way.
3. Only replace light bulbs when the lighting system is switched off or when the vehicle is powered down.
4. Do not touch any bulb glass directly with your fingers - this will cause local overheating spots and premature bulb failure. The best practice is to
hold the bulb using a clean cloth or while wearing clean gloves. Clean off any dirty bulbs as necessary.
2002-2006 Mini Cooper (R50) L4-1.6L (W10) Page 76
5. Before installing the replacement light bulb, check the bulb holder contacts for traces of oxidation and clean if necessary. Check for adequate
contact force.
6. In cases where a vehicle has had repeated light bulb failures, check the wiring system supply voltage using ISTA diagnosis.
7. Use only genuine MINI replacement light bulbs sourced through the MINI Parts department to help avoid bulb compatibility issues.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
This service information bulletin is intended to provide technical diagnostic and/or repair information.
Claims that result from the repair of a verified defect are to be processed following established warranty policies and procedures.
