W124 Headlight Switch Light Bulb

[jstone85]

I recently replaced light bulbs in the dash, but I've had problems with the light bulb in the headlight switch. It seems that the small plastic socket is missing.

I was wondering if I can find this part individually? (I see that it comes with new headlight switches, but of course I wouldn't want to get a new switch for a non-essential light bulb.) I've been trying various searches, but nothing has come up so far.

Any tips or pointers are much appreciated.

Thanks

 

[gsxr]

What model year is your car?

I can't quite tell from the photo, but I'm wondering if the old bulb broke off in the center...? That section is not sold separately, it's part of the rotary switch assembly.

I assume you know this bulb is only for the rear fog lamp function, btw.

 

[jstone85]

No I actually wasn't aware that the light only comes on with the fog lamps — would've assumed that it was always on to illuminate the arrow (which upon checking is painted on..). Considering how infrequently I use the fog lamps I can live without the light bulb.

The car is a 1990 300E 2.6. I've had it for 7 yrs. It's never had the bulb so the plastic piece could've broken off before I bought it.

 

[JC220]

I think that bulb is replacable. It's one variant of the tiny cap bulbs that exist in a w124 dashboard. Possibly one which has a portion of plastic on the bulb itself. I'd have to dig out a spare light switch and check for sure tomorrow

 

[jstone85]

I think that bulb is replacable. It's one variant of the tiny cap bulbs that exist in a w124 dashboard. Possibly one which has a portion of plastic on the bulb itself. I'd have to dig out a spare light switch and check for sure tomorrow

Thanks JC220!

 

[gsxr]

The car is a 1990 300E 2.6. I've had it for 7 yrs. It's never had the bulb so the plastic piece could've broken off before I bought it.

Ahhhh... if your car is a 1990 300E, USA-spec, it may not have the rear fog light function. I believe that appeared as standard equipment in USA as of model year 1991. Try to pull out the switch to a second detent, where the front fogs are the first detent. If there's no second click, your switch does not have the rear fog function and there is no bulb that belongs in there.

 

[jstone85]

Well that explains the missing bulb! Indeed it’s not equipped with rear fog lights. Thanks for clarifying! It nice to know that I don’t have to pursue this any further.