C5 Bulb Change Question.

[boltonbloke]

Hi all. I recently picked up a C5 after my beloved Xantia died spectacularly: Turbo went; engine screaming, couldn't turn it off, engine still screaming even when the ignition key was removed. Anyway, I noticed that the passenger side, side light bulb needs replacing. I just wanted to ask if anyone has experience of doing this. It looks as if I need to remove the battery to get access, but I have read about some people removing the bumper to facilitate removal of the whole light unit. That sounds a little extreme, but maybe there is a good reason for it. I'd appreciate any advice. Its a 2003 hdi diesel. Also, whats the cambelt lifespan on these cars? Mileage on my is only 39K. Thanks. Tony.

[boltonbloke]

I forgot to mention, but the cig lighter and the 12v aux plug are not working. I have checked the fuses according to the manual and they seem fine. Would appreciate any advice on this too. Thanks.

[den169]

They are a pain both sides but can be done,From inside take battery out and you should be able to get the bulbs out and replaced.No need for bumper being off.Done both sides of mine a few times.

[boltonbloke]

Thanks Den.

[qprdude]

There are loads of threads on here about changing bulbs, but I'm buggered if I can find them in "search"
The timing belt miles is relatively high on these, but I seem to remember a 10 year lifespan, so mileage isn't your problem, but age definitely is.

[BX]

I have never had to remove the battery to change any bulb on a mk1 C5, be it sidelight, indicator, headlamp/fog or the H7 dip lamp. However I have only changed bulbs on mk1 C5s with halogen headlamps and do not have any idea of what is involved if the car has HID lamps.
Timing belt should be changed after 10 years or 100,000 Miles whichever occurs first. For severe usage the mileage drops to 80,000 miles.

[SaabC5]

Sidelights on MKI C5's are easy, just remove the rear black cover on the inside of the two and the sidelight is a push fit 501 bulb. It takes a matter of minutes once you've remove the plastic covers either side of the engine. I've gone to LED sidelights cos they last a lot longer than the standard halogen units.

[myglaren]

Agreed, sidelights are simple.
I too have opted for LEDs there though. Five minute job.

[boltonbloke]

Ok, sorted; thanks for all the replies. Just had cambelt done: £190 supplied and fitted! Yes; that's £190. Anyone in the Wigan/Gtr Manchester area who needs a belt change; gimme a shout and I can put you in touch with the guy who did mine. He works from home hence no overheads. He also did my previous Xantia for £180 (Supplied and fitted).

[waynedance]

£190 great.... does he have insurance incase there's a problem?

sent via android power.

[boltonbloke]

I doubt it. He is a trained mechanic who undertakes all kinds of work. I know of several people who have had major work undertaken by him. Never any problems.