How much does it cost to change a bulb?

Stephen_Leak

Changing a bulb certainly isn't rocket science. However, getting access to it can be the show stopper. On my basic Mk.2 Mondeo, you can get to the back of the headlamps quite easily. However, on the same car with air conditioning, there is no space to work in and you have to remove the entire headlamps/grille sub-assembly!

But, as has been said above, if someone at the dealers can do it, so can you. Even the need for special tools can usually be worked around.

anewman

Ordinarily you won't be replacing bulbs on the motorway anyway. You probably won't realise a bulb is gone, and one that just has may scorch your hand.

slartybartfarst

As a designer involved in the automotive industry I understand compromises have to be made and in this decision Renault has made an assement of what YOU the customer will put up with. Did they get it wrong?

A garage visit, plus 1/2 a day off off work, plus £50 when a bulb blows really sticks in peoples minds right.

And what brand will they willingly return too?.........For all the great work done with finish,value, performance it can all be over ridden when it comes to that next all important repeat sale for the want of design like this.

FakeIrish

MY father bought a bulb in Halfords and they fitted it for him at a cost of £3. I'll definitely opt for that next time rather than spend an hour attempting to do so myself!

Crabman

Hi slartybartfarst, welcome to MSE :hello:

Fifth Gear featured the Renault Megane's ridiculous headlight bulb change procedure:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=nXCZ2v-nIF4

scorpian81

I remember watching this on channel 5's fifth gear. Basically trying to see how long it would take to hange a headlight bulb on a current model megane. about 40 minutes i think.( by an aa man) something stupid like that anyway. and they were ringing around renault dealers and some were quoting £300!
I would never buy a renault anyway, that's personal choice, but my friend has one so i have warned him that everything is not always easy to repair/change, or cheap!

scorpian81

I took so long to reply, someone has beaten me to it with a link ha ha!

sparky7

Here's a DIY illustrated guide to changing the bulb if you plan on doing it your self:

http://www.meganeownersclub.co.uk/changingmeganebulb.php

molerat

SVM wrote: »

MY father bought a bulb in Halfords and they fitted it for him at a cost of £3. I'll definitely opt for that next time rather than spend an hour attempting to do so myself!

For a megane headlight most will politely tell you to go elsewhere

hewhoisnotintheknow

molerat wrote: »

For a megane headlight most will politely tell you to go elsewhere

I wouldnt let a halfords gnome anywhere near my car

If you cant do it take it to a local backstreet garage and agree a price before they start!