Help, BMW 218ti odometer light

[jlaird]

Shucks, I have the light from the dealer but see no way to get to the dash lights. Tried to remove the covers etc under the dash but even with them out no access. Must be an easy way to do this but I admit I am stumped.

 

[Scott_Hower]

[ QUOTE ]
Shucks, I have the light from the dealer but see no way to get to the dash lights. Tried to remove the covers etc under the dash but even with them out no access. Must be an easy way to do this but I admit I am stumped.

[/ QUOTE ]

I have a set of dealer TIS (TIS = repair manuals on CD).

What series and model#? The series starts with an E (i.e. E21, E30, E46). You said 218it, did you mean 318i?

I'd be happy to send you the PDF instructions.

 

[GB1]

I believe its a 318TI.

 

[jlaird]

Oh shucks, 318ti

don't know about series??

 

[DrEntropy]

3-series Jack /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

The whole instrument panel comes out, IIRC. It has a printed circuit "film" to power all instruments and lights...once you see it you may not like it! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/jester.gif Nothin' like Miss Agatha.

 

[Scott_Hower]

[ QUOTE ]
Oh shucks, 318ti

don't know about series??

[/ QUOTE ]

Gimme the last 7 digits of the VIN. As Doc said, you might not like what you find /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/lol.gif

 

[jlaird]

AU39804

Heck I thought the AU ment it was an Austin in discuise. Sigh.

 

[GB1]

Sounds like a carb part # to me. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/jester.gif

 

[Scott_Hower]

[ QUOTE ]
AU39804

Heck I thought the AU ment it was an Austin in discuise. Sigh.

[/ QUOTE ]

Here's the parts book diagram for the cluster; looks like it comes out in one piece - as Doc said. Need to find the other CD for removal instructions. Stay tuned.

 

[Scott_Hower]

Cluster removal instructions and bulb removal instructions. Hope you have the "special tool" /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/devilgrin.gif When in doubt, improvise.

<font color="red"> EDIT: Jack, I just noticed the instructions say to recode the cluster when reinstalling. Only a dealer can do this, as the mileage is stored there and replicated to the LCM/light control module. You might want to proceed with caution. </font>

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[DrEntropy]

I have been able to remove the bulb sockets with just fingers.

 

[Scott_Hower]

[ QUOTE ]
I have been able to remove the bulb sockets with just fingers.

[/ QUOTE ]

Thats a relief. Any idea if this is going to cause any issues with coding? I just realized the E36 cluster is electronic. Dont want to cause an expensive trip to the dealer /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif

 

[jlaird]

Oh no, first step is removeing stearing wheel, I think she is just going to have to shine a flash light on the odometer when she needs to read it. No way I go through that for a darn bulb on a BMW. Now if it was my Bug that's a different matter. The bulb is the only thing that does not work on the car, fixed all else, just junk stuff.

So there it stays without a light.

Thanks guys, appreciate the help.

 

[Scott_Hower]

[ QUOTE ]
Oh no, first step is removeing stearing wheel, I think she is just going to have to shine a flash light on the odometer when she needs to read it. No way I go through that for a darn bulb on a BMW. Now if it was my Bug that's a different matter. The bulb is the only thing that does not work on the car, fixed all else, just junk stuff.


[/ QUOTE ]

Wimp /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/devilgrin.gif
It's just a nut /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/angel.gif

I installed a factory rear sunshade/roller blind in my 330i last year to keep the sun offa the littlest one. Had to remove darn near all of the rear upholstery to fit the thing.

https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=45744

 

[DrEntropy]

If the main harness is not energised while the pod is out/disconnected it shouldn't cause and issues... but I'd be with Jack on this: put the bulb in the glovebox! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/devilgrin.gif