95 E300D 124k. I always thought the driver's side door light was broken, but last night, for the first and only time, I noticed it was on when I exited the car. I closed the door and hoped it would come back on. No luck. So, what are the first few simple steps to take to address the problem? Change the bulb? Check a switch? I'm not concerned enough to remove the door panel - just want to try a few simple things. Thanks to all.

I assume you are talking about the little puddle light in the bottom of the door. Mine only works if the passenger door is open, too. This is due to a failed seat belt relay. If your interior light comes on when you open your drivers door, this is not the case. In that case it is either a bad connection at the light bulb or a bad connection in the wiring going to the door. If you take the door panel off, the light is in the bottom, and esy to check / clean.

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2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 4Matic
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon
2005 Land Rover LR3 V8 SE
1999 Audi A8 4.2L quattro