FIXONICBefore you begin
Has your "Brake Light Failure" warning come up on your On Board Check computer? If so, there is a good chance the brake light bulb has failed and requires replacement.
Official iFixit API visual reference
Open the authorised source
1992-1999 BMW 3 Series Brake Light Bulb Replacement
Has your "Brake Light Failure" warning come up...
iFixit Library 1992-1999 BMW 3 Series
Easy
20 minutes
Guide 50405
Licensed iFixit integration
This attributed iFixit guide is displayed through Fixonic's recorded commercial API permission. iFixit remains the independent source and author of the procedure.
Repair step
- Determine which brake light is out. Have a friend step on the brake and see which light does not illuminate.
- In the trunk, locate the plastic cover that protects the taillight. Turn the handle clockwise (as shown by the arrow above the handle) and gently pull outwards.
Repair step
- Pinch the top and bottom of the power connection. Pull hard on the power connection to remove it, disconnecting the wiring.
Repair step
- Undo all four nuts with the 8mm socket and ratchet.
- The nuts are marked by red circles in the second image.
Repair step
- To remove the taillight from the metal frame, push outwards (towards the back of the car) on the back of one of the plastic bulb carriers.
- Support the taillight housing with your free hand to keep it from falling and being damaged.
Repair step
- The brake light bulb is behind the bottom right plug. Push the plug inwards while turning it counterclockwise to remove the assembly.
Repair step
- The 7528 bulb is in the off-white plastic carrier. Apply slight pressure downwards and twist counterclockwise to remove the bulb.
Repair step
- To determine whether or not a bulb is burnt, check for a connection break in the bulb. In the image shown, wires run continuously between both connections. This means the bulb is working correctly and can be installed.
- Insert the new bulb into the white housing and turn clockwise to install.
Repair step
- The plastic carriers only fit into the taillight carrier one way. The fit is very snug against the metal ground.
- Align the two plastic tabs with the indents in the metal sheet. Push hard inward while twisting clockwise until the bulb is horizontal, similar to the other four bulbs. When the bulb fits correctly, you will hear a loud snap.