Instrument lights

[5UG]

First time out in the dark, and I think one or two dashboard bulbs might be broken.
Of the three circular heating controls beneath the radio, the left hand one is lit, not sure about the middle one, but the right hand fan speed definitely isn't.
How do I get access to check the bulbs?

 

[Shelly]

Maybe @t-tony or @Stevo7682 might be able to help you

 

[Nodzed]

Drop the radio out and you can access the bulb holder its a fiddle but it can be done without removing the heater control, not long done it. If the holder is tight use a pair of stubby long nose pliers

EDIT
pull the power lead off the bulb holder first

 

[5UG]

Thanks Nodzed
Do each of the 3 circular knobs have their own bulb?

 

[Nodzed]

Thanks Nodzed
Do each of the 3 circular knobs have their own bulb?

I think there is only two as my right hand one blew and the right dial and half of the middle dial went dark once replaced all 3 dial are fine (but someone will correct this if I'm wrong) one on the left and one on the right I think the left one is the hardest and probably needs the dial to be unscrewed and moved to get access but the right hand one can be done in situ.

 

[Nodzed]

Bit of advice the holders just pull out push in, if you need to use pliers pass them into the radio opening handles first the guide the pliers end onto the bulb holder using your fingers to locate it, then stick your hand (of in my case fingers) into the radio hole and get hold of the pliers handles and tease the holder out. Its a fiddle but after several attempts, grazed knuckles and a few choice words you'll get it out, to replace is easier it will just push in by hand..

Top tip DONT drop the bulb holder into the bottom of the hole I put a micro cloth in it to catch it just in case.

 

[jonco]

Most points already covered above, but there is this in articles https://zroadster.org/articles/bmw-z3-replacing-heater-control-bulbs.65/

 

[g8jka]

I've found it easier to undo the 2 screws on the side 'wing' of the console and bend it back whilst holding it in place with your hand or something else. You can actually get your head in there then and actually see what you are doing. There are 2 bulbs, one that sits in the back of the heater controls and one that sits underneath, which is a nightmare to get to if you try and go through the radio cut out.

 

[5UG]

Brilliant guys, thank you.
I love Forums like this!
I had the same experiences with Mercedes and Alfa Giulietta forums when restoring my two older classics

 

[Mint]

If you do go through the radio cut out prepare for cut fingers. As said above there is not much room and you can't really see what you're doing. I found a small mirror helped. Best of luck