Facebook no script

How to replace a lightbulb on a MINI Hatch

We take you through the 13 steps required to successfully replace the headlight bulbs on a MINI hatch fitted with Halogen light bulbs.

Car Ownership

Headlight bulbs are one of those things that deteriorate over time. While modern LED units last considerably longer these days, many cars still use Halogen bulbs that have a finite lifespan. Thankfully, a blown headlight bulb is a quick fix, provided you have replacement bulbs on standby.

Related: An A-Ha! Maintenance Moment – getting those headlight covers clean!

On the MINI hatch (most models equipped with Halogen bulbs) this is a task that you can tackle yourself without needing any special tools or equipment. All you will need is a few spare minutes and a little patience, and of course, this handy guide to walk you through the steps.

 

You will need:

- Replacement H2 bulbs

- 10-minutes to spare

 

How to:

1. Locate the hood release catch and open the bonnet.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

2. Open the bonnet and support with the supplied stay.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

3. Unclip the rear panel of the headlight housing.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

4. Pull off the black electrical connector on the back of the bulb. Do not pull on the wires.

 

5. Squeeze the two legs of the spring clip to release the bulb.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

6. Remove the old bulb.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

7. Insert the new H2 bulb and ensure it seats correctly.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

8. Replace the spring clip.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

9. Reinsert the electrical connector.

 

Image courtesy: Philips Automotive Lighting Europe

10. Refix the rear panel of the housing.

11. Close the bonnet and test the lights.

 

For a detailed video on the process, check out the Philips Automotive Lighting Europe YouTube video here.

Author - Chad Lückhoff

Written by Chad Lückhoff

With over 18 years of motorsport commentary and a passion for 90s Japanese Sports Cars, Chad Lückhoff is happiest when surrounded by drift cars and smoking tyres. His experience as the Technical Editor of the country’s top tuning magazine means that it’s the nuts and bolts of motoring that tickles his fancy. As comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it, he’ll take you behind the wheel with his video reviews, written recounts, and invoking photography. One of the first to join the AutoTrader fray, Chad has been living his passion at AutoTrader for over 7-years.Read more

More categories

All
Automotive News
Buying a Car
Car Ownership
Selling a Car
Electric Cars
Buyer's Guide