[NJGTI]

my brake light bulbs seem to burn out very often, especially the right side which has probably been replaced 5 times in the past few months....anyone know why this is?

 

[paul_shark]

Re: brake light bulbs (NJTDI)

I can't tell for sure, but it may be the bulbs you're using. Motor Trend had a similar problem with their long-term 3 Series, and a trip to the dealer for a $3 bulb seemed to solve their problem. But why not replace both lights with LEDs - they'll last nearly forever, and they illuminate quicker (no filaments) allowing drivers behind you to react faster. They're brighter, too, and behind red lenses they have a unique crimson color.
_shark

 

[HIDGolf]

Re: brake light bulbs (paul_shark)

too bad the correct LED bulbs are 50 bucks USD.http://netdisty.net/ds/aut1157/

 

[HIDGolf]

Re: brake light bulbs (HIDGolf)

but they would require mods to the bulbs cuz they are designed for dual filament systems.

 

[Lumalux]

Re: brake light bulbs (NJTDI)

Most German cars use lamps that are lower in wattage and have shorter lives than U.S versions. The advantage is higher efficiency (less current draw) and quicker luminesence and nigresence (the time it requires for the lamp to fully light and then go dark). You may have noticed that these lamps appear to snap on and off more sharply than some other cars.
I think your bulb failures are due to moisture somehow coming into contact with the bulb. Check the taillight assembly for any sign of moisture. Other than too-high voltage in your vehicle, I'm certain this is the cause.
It is also essential to clean the new bulb with either glass cleaner or alcohol and a clean cloth or paper towel. Use the cloth to insert the lamp so that the oil from your fingers does not get on the bulb. This can cause early failure.
Good luck.

 

[Lumalux]

Re: brake light bulbs (Lumalux)

I should have added that you can usually tell if the bulb failure is due to moisture because the bulb glass will appear milky where it cracked and the filament burned up. If your bulbs look like this, check for the water leak.

 

[paul_shark]

Re: brake light bulbs (HIDGolf)

quote:[HR][/HR]too bad the correct LED bulbs are 50 bucks USD.http://netdisty.net/ds/aut1157/
mods to the bulbs[HR][/HR]​

No doubt, those bulbs are higher quality than the below ones with built in resistors. However, since these are only one-stage bulbs, it doesn't matter. 15 bucks isn't bad either, but some more expensive "super bright" ones can be found with a simple google search. if thats too much, the next link has them for under 8.
LEDtronics lists yellow/amber ones - THIS would be a unique swap for the headlight of MKiv cars. http://www.electricalconnection.com/other lighting/led_replacement_bulbs.htm http://www.aieonline.com/73/948.htm?11