W126 - How Remove Headlight Bulb??
 

I got the assembly apart to the point of removing the three stainless clips that hold the glass lens in place but cannot get the glass lens loose. What is the secret or what am I missing?

Thank you.

Are you just replacing the bulb?

The headlight bulb is accessed through the back of the headlight. You have to remove the gray cover by pinching the tabs at the top and lifting straigt up. There is a retaining ring that holds the bulb in place. Turn the ring counter-clockwise and then slide the ring away from the assembly. Pull out the bulb and it's housing. Then unclip the socket from the bulb. You can do this step before removing the ring if you can actually get the socket to release - I couldn't.

What he said if you are just replacing the bulb 5 minute job at the most

Got it, Thanks!

What is a good local source for the correct bulb, except the MB dealer? Located in Clearwater, Fl. Can't really complain, original bulb only lasted 16 years.

Thank you.

Autozone, Advance, O'Reilly, Pep Boys. Take your pick very common bulb. Keep your fingers off the glass part of bulb as you install.

Never cease to be amazed at the clever and accurate engineering on these cars. Mine is a 1991 350SDL, original owner 176K miles. Still runs and looks oustanding.

Thanks again!

Guess you got a lot of mileage out of the bulb:D

It's a 9004 bulb. Whatever you do - DON'T use the plasma bulbs. I melted both sockets and had to replace them.

The replacements bulbs I got are Sylvania 9400 ST Cool Blue Silverstar. Are these the ones that get too hot or will they be OK (good)?

Thank you.

I have silverstars in the SD and they work fine.

To be honest, I am not sure. Just be sure to keep an eye on the sockets. Check every month or so if you use your headlights often. Mine got hot enough that the bulb fused to the socket.

benzboy, are you talking about the Sylvania 9400 ST Silverstar bulbs?

Thank you.

Not sure. I purchased some on ebay called "Plasma lights". I am not sure if they are the same. They claimed to be "cool blue" though. I would keep an eye on the sockets though.