i put in new sidemarker bulbs, but they werent working. tried to find the fuse but could not, but then after cleaning out the socket real good, the bulbs are working!!

but i'm still getting "lamp defective" message when I turn the headlights on (position 2). i'm stumped now cuz i've looked everywhere and every other light that should turn on at position 2 seems to be on.

any ideas?

Ensure that you have the correct bulbs installed in all sockets. Also ensure that none are dim, indicating a resistive connection.

Also check the city lamps. They sit in the high-beam reflectors, and should light up when the low-beams are on.

I had the same problem with brake lights on my 300TE. The owners manual actually specifies the current or power rating of each bulb. Make sure you have the correct bulb. I found a large variation with aftermarket bulbs. In the end it was the third brake light I was overlooking. Could your's be the license plate bulb?