I finallg got the right information on how to change the light bulbs in the AC vent thumbwheels on the dash of my 97' S320 and similar models. I was previously instructed to partially disassemble the center console, but that is not necessary. As I suspected there is a simple way to access these that only takes about 5 minutes.

First, open the glove box to access the side of the wood molding around the thumbwheels. There is a small plastic cap on that end that covers a screw. Use a very thin knife or similar tool to pry the cap off. BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE WOOD. Remove this screw so you can remove the molding.

Second, Remove the molding by gently prying starting at the glove box end. There are two places along the monding strip where the molding is held to the vent thumbwheel frame by snaps. these will pop out with gentle prying. ONce the molding is off you will see two screws along the bottom edge of the thumbwheel frame. remove these.

Third, to remove the thumbwheel frame from the dash, there are two retainer clips along the top edge that have to be depressed. I used a small thin knife. Once you release these clips, the thunbwheel frame will slide forward and out of the dash.

Lastly, There are two light bulbs in the top of the thumbwheel frame each centered between two of the thumbwheels. These twist right out. You can find the bulbs on fast lane or at the dealer. They cost about $4.50 each.

Good luck and hope this post helps someone.

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KCScout
98 S420 My Wife's Baby
97 S320 My road car
83 300D My old road car (love that diesel)
81 300SD Wife's former Baby
81 240D A fun stick shifter
71 220D My first one