The E60 BMW M5 ushered in a new era for BMW. Not only was it penned by the notorious Chris Bangle, but it was the first time that a hearty V10 engine was fitted to the M5. Many will remember the odd styling and awkward proportions but more will remember the screaming 5.0-litre V10 engine that had a distinctive soundtrack and would propel the M5 to 100 km/h in only 4.7-seconds.
Related: Top 3 things you need to know about the BMW M5
With used prices around the R300 000 mark, it's a more affordable way of getting into a large displacement M-car. Much is written about the inherent issues of the S85 V10 engine but as the car ages, other items will wear and need replacement. Headlights are one such item. The BMW M5 is fitted with xenon headlights and while a little more involved than your regular halogen pieces, they are still user-serviceable parts.
Here's how you can do it with only a few tools.
You will need:
- 8mm socket
- long reach extension
- T30 Torx bit
- ratchet
- flat-head screwdriver
- replacement D1S bulbs
How to:
1. Park the car and open the hood.
2. Locate the two Torx bolts that secure the upper section of the headlight and remove.
3. Locate the two 8mm bolts that secure the lower section of the headlight. These have to only be loosened partially, do not remove entirely.
4. Using care, wiggle the headlight out, away from the front of the car.
5. Unclip the electrical connector at the base of the unit.
6. Using the flat-head screwdriver, gently pry back the clips holding the rear panel in place.
7. Squeeze the electrical connector on the base of the bulb and remove.
8. Twisting in a counter-clockwise manner, undo the bulb from the housing.
9. Insert the new bulb and twist in a clockwise position to secure.
10. reinstall the headlight unit using the reverse of the disassembly.
Images courtesy of bmwrepairguide.com and BMAC VAGS
