How do you replace instrument lights on a Mercedes 560SL?

Answer 1

Replacing light bulbs within the instrument cluster can be something of a pain in the ass. And, because it is such a pain, I suggest replacing all of the bulbs at the same time. I assume that we're just talking about the instrument lighting, and not the idiot lights on the bottom. You're going to need a big socket...I believe it's a 27mm, and a ratchet extention, and the ratchet. If you have an air bag, you have to disable it. Remove the airbag housing carefully...and then remove the steering wheel. You should make sure of the position of the steering wheel...it should be straight in line...and remember to pull the ignition key out of the ignition...otherwise the steering wheel won't lock, and you won't be able to loosen the nut. Slowly work the instrument cluster out of the dash housing. If you have small hands, you should be able to remove the two top bulb holders buy pushing in gently and turning 90 degrees. Slide the holders out. There are two small bayonet type bulbs to replace. There are a couple of other lamps to replace also...they are bigger bayonet bulbs...I believe there are 2 of them. They are the same size bulbs as the idiot lights take. Go to a local MB dealer for the little bulbs because they are hard to find in most places. I did find them at Auto Zone a while ago. The instrument lighting for the heater/ac, and utility switches are mainly lit by optic strands with the light source coming from behind the center cluster and temperature wheel. They use those tiny bayonet bulbs as well. As I said, this can be a pain in the ass...but after you do it once, you should be able to do it much easier...its just a lot of work to do. And remember to check all the bulbs in the instrument cluster as long as you're there. That's about it...oh...make sure you slowly re-insert the instrument cluster back into the dash evenly...check up-down and left and right...it can be tricky too....its held in by a rubber gasket around the entire instrument cluster. And be careful with that air bag...you don't want to set it off.