Xenon bulbs.. Why can't you change them yourself?

[derin100]

This a genuine question as both the handbook for my C55 and the MB dealer who charged me £132 yesterday (as not covered under my Tier 1 warranty) to supply and fit a dip beam bulb say one can't do it oneself.

Why is this?

Thanks.

[r129sl]

(I think) it is supposedly because of the high voltage used: some risk of electric shock? They're a really expensive pain, these xenon lights: I'm on my third offside headlamp and at £800 a go it's a bit of a bore.

[derin100]

Yes, that's what I was kind of figuring...and yet one can freely buying HID upgradekits on the 'net for all manner of other cars to retrofit. Aren't these basically the same thing?

[r129sl]

The upgrade kits cover a wide range of different things, starting from ordinary bulbs with a bluish tinge or filled with xenon gas, going through to OEM or aftermarket light units with control units, igniters and different bulbs mounted in a bespoke glass with proper level controls. In all cases there is a presumption that the able DIYer can fit them.

I have no doubt that you can change the bulb yourself if equipped with the correct tools and a modicum of intelligence. It's not as if they require magic powers. I don't even think there is any computer reset or adjustment function involved. From what I have seen of your websit and posts, I don't think you'd have any trouble.

[SprintV8]

How do you think the dealers change them.

Simply turn the light's off bonnet open and lock the car with the key's in your hand/pocket to make sure no one turn's the light's on when your working around them.

No power to light's no problem.

[Alexdaredevilz]

Ive worked in accident repair for 7.5 years and its no different than changing a normal bulb,
just don't touch or get the glass dirty,

Some, i cant remember which ones are gas filled headlights and you wont be able to do them your self

[Classy6]

Not really any different from a normal, few more things to take off... But it still all turns & pulls. Make sure the lights are off, don't touch the lense of the bulb at all & with an ounce of common sense you could do it yourself.