OBC illumination

[Mless5]

What is the best way to replace the bulb that illuminates buttons ? Do I really have to take the whole console out or is there are trick to it?

Thanks.

[TDE30]

Nah, no need to pull the interior apart, I believe there is just one bulb too.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/JF-Tech/BMW_E30_3_Series_ODBC_light_replacement.htm

[e30drop]

Its a light bar that replaces the original one in your OBC>

You will have to remove your OBC to install the new one.

Probably will have to remove the Radio and the little side panel on the left hand side of the glove box so you can reach it. Be careful not to break the tabs on the OBC.

This was the first thing I had to change when i first bought my car!

[Mless5]

What is the best way to replace the bulb that illuminates buttons ?

[E30 Cabrio]

There is a light bar for the LED display in addition to a single bulb in the back that illuminates the buttons.

There are two ways to get to the back of the OBC - one thru the glove box and the other by going thru the HVAC/Radio area.

I believe there is a write up on BavAuto on how to do this.

Pelican Parts might have a write up on how to as well, and a search of this forum should have instructions as well.

Every E30 owner will have to do this at some time or another.

[TDE30]

^ Exactly.

[Mless5]

Thanks. I am aware of the "sword", I am talking about that single bulb that is PITA to take out.

[TexasTerp]

I searched all through e30tech and can't find a write or even mention of that bulb replacement anywhere. I'd say you're going to have to disassemble the OBC in order to get to it. Take your time and keep a running log and pics for a write, it's definitely something that should be done!

[n3nyongmini]

hmm mine just went out in the process of putting in a new radio.

I can get my OBC out by carefully prying the trim off with my fingernail, then the OBC comes out with two tabs that squeeze toward the OBC. Seems WAY simpler than is should be - maybe 'cause it's the 6 button?

Also - I've got two iscrew-in nstrument-cluster-like bulbs on the back of the OBC. Easy enough to replce with needlenose pliers.

HTH or whatever

[Mless5]

Also - I've got two iscrew-in nstrument-cluster-like bulbs on the back of the OBC. Easy enough to replce with needlenose pliers.

HTH or whatever

That is the one I am talking about.

"I can get my OBC out by carefully prying the trim off with my fingernail" which trim is that?

[n3nyongmini]

part no 6 is the cover that comes off easily with fingernail:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=1123&mospid=47309&btnr=62_0116&hg=62&fg=05

I just picked up a few of these bulbs at BAP/GEON....

[Mless5]

Oh crap, we have the full 9 button thingy, luxury style.

[E30 Cabrio]

The OBC is held in by 4 screws that must be loosened in order to remove it.

There is one or maybe 2 twist in type bulbs on the back of the OBC for button illumination. If you can somehow reach back there thru by removing the glovebox and trim, you may be able to get a hand in there and unscrew the bulbs.

If not, the OBC will have to come out.

It's about a 45 minute job the first time, and there are a couple of ways to do it - either thru the glove box, or by removing the radio and HVAC controls.

Check BavAuto and Pelican Parts for write ups on "How to"

Here is a write up on how to R & R the light bar. The procedure for replacing the rear bulbs is similar and it might be a good idea to replace the light bar bulbs at the same time:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/JF-Tech/BMW_E30_3_Series_ODBC_light_replacement.htm

I usually just solder in new bulbs for the light bar as it is much cheaper then spending $30.00 for a new light bar and bulbs.

[Mless5]

Amen. I guess it will have to come out :???:

[clavinZERO]

Better late than never...

On my late model with the 13-button OBC, my button illumination died. For the fix, get these:

- 1 plastic-housed, 1/4-turn-style 1.2w bulb
- deep 11/32 socket (1/4" drive, I believe)
- philips head screwdriver
- mirror (optional)
- flashlight (optional)

Open glove box. Remove plastic trim inside glove box on upper left side. Use mirror or finger to locate recessed hole where the twist-in bulb is located on upper back panel of the onbaord computer. Insert deep 11/32 socket. Give 1/4 twist counter-clockwise with bare hands and remove. This socket is not a 100% fit, but it's the best I could find to work out of MANY sockets I tried. Install new bulb with 1/4 turn and replace glove box trim. Done.