clear rear lights rip off - £39.40 + vat for a bulb!!

[mikeythemini]

Standard mini rear lights have normal removable 70 pence bulbs, but have you checked the clear ones. The silver effect bulbs are all soldered in the the bulb holder. 1 bulb blows? Mr Bmw will sell you a new holder complete with 3 bulbs for 39.40gbp + VAT
Once I get mine, if a bulb blows I think I will be looking at desoldering them.

[monsta]

I did wonder why the clear ones are soldered. Just figured that I would get a soldering iron and replace them myself

one bulb blows and you have to buy the whole board ?! Whos bright idea was that?!!!

[flipper]

Barmy
I wonder what the official BMW reason is for not supplying individual bulbs - how easy would it be to get replacement bulbs.

[BruceK]

So are these soldered bulbs red and amber tinted to shine through the 'clear' tail light lens?

If so, perhaps MINI wanted to ensure they were always replaced with the tinted blubs (but it does seem silly to solder them to the bulb holder to accomplish that goal).

[flipper]

They must be trying to ensure that different coloured bulbs cannot be fitted - which would be illegal?

[mikeythemini]

maybe I can open a sideline in refurb bulb holders for clear light kits.

[6f7]

The clear side indicators aren't cheap either. $35 USD for the pair!

[Minty]

the bulbs look like osram ones....in the style of the phillips silver vision. are you sure they are not changeable?? i havent looked at mine, but it seems rediculous that us mere mortals cannot change them?!?!

[monsta]

It is possible to change them you just have to get a soldering iron out and break the solder link - I hope

[monsta]

Item 8 - Bulbs - 07.50.0.142.644
Item 9 - Bulb Blue White Turn Indicator - 07.50.0.030.596

Dealers There you go