318i Tech Procedure -
Foglight Lens Replacements

When I purchased my car, the fog lights were in pitiful condition. Both were rock pitted and one was cracked. Replacements are very expensive, even on eBay, so I decided to replace the glass lenses. I went with a non-glass lens that I believe is made of polycarbonate. It was cut to the exact size, shape, and pattern as the original glass ones.

You can buy these lenses from www.bmwlight.com. A pair sells for approximately $35-$40.

Required tool list:
10mm socket
Silicone Sealant
Super Glue

Click on the thumbnail for larger pictures.

	Old passenger's side fog light.
	Old driver's side fog light.
	Is it being held together by old gum?
	Climb under the car and unplug the fog light. connector. They may be rusted a bit so be careful not to break anything.
	Use a 10mm socket to remove the bolts holding the fog light. into the front bumper. There are four bolts on each fog light.
	Bring the fog lights inside and carefully take off the glass lens. This was tough and I ended up breaking the lens. Get all the old silicone and glass bits out. Now is also a great time to really clean out the inside of the fog lights Scrape out any rust and clean the inner lens.
	Put the fog lights in a mount that will hold them flat.
	Apply silicone sealant around the edge and place the replacement lenses on the fog lights Allow to dry. I also added a few beads of super glue around the edge because the silicone would allow the lens to wiggle slightly.
	New passenger lens.
	New driver's side lens.
Performed:	August 2, 2004
Difficulty	1/5

 

Disclaimer: I am not a professional mechanic. Information this page should be used at your own risk and discretion. Different models and model years may be different than my 1991 318i. Read: If you screw your car up following my instructions, sorry. Isn't it sad that in this sue crazy world you have to put a disclaimer on your web page?