BMW E46 Headlight Reconditioning DIY

[@mokhtarbiri247]

Just an important note...you don't need to completely remove the front bumper...there are just bolts for headlight from inside the engine

[@mokhtarbiri247]

Just an important note...you don't need to completely remove the front bumper...there are just bolts for headlight from inside the engine

[@kasrabahmanyar1193]

tbh without you and shoplife i would not own my e46 since having to pay a mechanic every time something goes wrong is out of the question. cheers!

[@herrbrahms]

Fantastic content, Jason. You really are the gift that keeps giving to the E46 chassis. This is yet another reason to keep this car over more modern BMWs. Compared to them, this thing is like a Crown Victoria in terms of serviceability.

[@charlesberry4958]

Jason!! Great content - huge difference. We did polishing and PPF on mine, and it looks great, but new lenses are the way to go.

[@3n3ly7m9]

Damn wtf, you are a whole new person. I've been watching a bunch of your old 5hp19 videos to rebuild a a few Audi S4/A4 transmissions.

[@nicewoodencrafts]

I planning same job for my e46. Polishing them 3 times before and not helping any more. Plastic is just dead and lenses need to be replaced now. Thanks for your video I now know it's easy job. Thanks man, greetings from Estonia!

[@joehurley3744]

Thanks for everything! Have you thought of doing a yearly 50s Kid BMW convention? You are reason most of still have BMW’s. A lot of people would be stoked to get together.

[@qualitytools8116]

Good to see an e46 video from you Jason! It’s recommended to replace both Xenon bulbs at the same time as they do dim with age. Therefore, if you only replace one the other one will look slightly dimmer.

[@cparente7]

Your's is the only DIY I've found that shows the gasket replacement. I went with Lightwerkz retrofit and now refreshing everything. Also it's strange, using protective film on the E39 seems very common but not the E46. I used Lamin-X on my M5. Thanks for what you do!

[@50sKid]

I chose to remove the bumper to remove the headlights because it’s the safest way. You can choose to remove the trim piece underneath the headlights but you risk breaking the clips on it if you do it that way. That's how one of my trim pieces was broken. It was a junkyard find and I see them broken all the time because people are lazy and try to take short cuts. Do it however you want to do it but it's so easy to take the bumper off it's like a no-brainer for me!

[@readyplayer2]

Absolutely agree. I did it years ago without removing the bumper and it was horrible trying to remove that trim piece without breaking the tabs. Long skinny screwdriver and a lot of cursing. And the tabs would reclip as you tried to undo another one. Do what Jason did, remove the bumper.

[@crazzy88ss]

Really? I’ve removed those trim pieces 100 times between my two e46s and they don’t brake. It probably will now lol :(

[@luke8585]

MORE E46 CONTENT :)

[@crispynotburnt]

Don't forget, there are plenty of rusty bolts from the underneath trim which can break when removing the bumper, not to mention the plastic guides on the bumper itself. YMMV, but especially because you don't have the headlight washers, it's not a necessary step and you risk breaking less clips if you just remove the bottom headlight surrounds with the bumper installed.

[@King_DTA]

@50sKid are these for Xenon style? Also where can I find the lens covers and gaskets. I have been looking EVERYWHERE but they all say for e46 halogen style only not Xenon and my 05 325i has Xenon projector headlights. Any help would be be GREATLY appreciated 🙏🏽

[@cparente7]

Interesting. On my 06 M3 the bumper does not need to come off. However the ballast on the driver side does need to come out with the headlight assembly. BTW your parking brake video was very helpful, finally got that addressed when I did the rear rotors and pads. Thanks for a fun channel.

[@ironnerd8336]

Good job, and always great to see you posting! I did this last weekend for the third time. Not too bad since I've had the car since 02. They are a joy to work on.

[@worldsails2000]

Get some good quality paint protection film and install that on your headlights and they won't fade again. The better quality PPF has UV protection. I did this on my wife's 2002 M Coupe when it was new and the lenses still have not faded. I just got a 6' strip and cut it to fit. I have since done it to all my other cars.

[@AudioTherapy0]

That brightness problem might be caused by a burned/worn reflector inside a headlight. Which is very common. I don't think that driver circuit has anything to do with that. Very nice and informative video tho.

[@PandleHandle]

I've restored mine with a 3m kit and covered it with clearcoat. Four years later it's not foggy, but the clearcoat is crazed.

[@4bersam]

Great video! Thanks for all your awesome and helpful content 50sKid, you save us a ton of money. There should be a statue of you at the BMW headquarters!!

[@jaykerowan1101]

Hey Jason Loved the e46 content please continue to make more e46 videos always very helpful watching your stuff!!

[@julioirizarry4262]

Great vid as usual. They looked phenomenal. Thanks.

[@bigbill74scots]

This is why I refuse to get rid of my E46s. Everything is modular. Also, it's the best looking car BMW EVER made.

[@mistawhipe]

I find it interesting that you had to remove your bumper, I also have a facelift e46 sedan and I can get the headlights out without removing anything else.

[@50sKid]

I chose to do it this way as it is the safest way, otherwise you risk breaking the clips on the lower trim piece

[@CMDRRustyDog]

After sanding healights, I use a proper UV sealant (not laquer). This is to protect the headlight from the UV rays that are responsible for making them go faded and yellow in the first place.

[@wooltrouserslover777]

what brand do u recommend? and would this work well after a kit like sylvania?

[@yamman93]

To anyone looking for facelift coupe lenses , they are out there from unofficial websites but they are so good that they have to be genuine parts.

[@momoghal3711]

Hey buddy, it was me who commented about the kit you mention at 5:20 That's not what I was referring to. You can buy those trims you're talking about for a few dollars if your silver is faded or convert them to black. As you say, that's a really easy job to replace it. What I meant was the silver paint INSIDE the PROJECTOR. There's a reflector bowl inside the projector which burns with the intense heat from the D2S bulb which reduces overall light output. The kit is to replace the reflector. THAT's a pain in the back side job and worth a video I think - that's probably the cause of the difference you noticed at 10:20 Google "E46 projector burn" for more info.

[@tjsailing5232]

Awesome to see a e46 video from you again!! 🎉😊 mine cannot be replaced like that only the pre facelift can not face lifted models or at least not on the ones that are one piece dynamic headlights

[@momoghal3711]

Sedan/Touring pre-facelift CAN. Sedan/Touring LCI facelift (as in this video) CAN. Coupe/Convertible pre-facelift CAN. Coupe/Convertible LCI facelift CANNOT. It's only the LCI Coupe/Vert that have glass lenses that are bonded. But again with enough effort - you can replace them too. However they shouldn't suffer oxidation as much as the plastic ones in the other models

[@tjsailing5232]

@@momoghal3711 unless they changed something I think they are just as susceptible as they are plastic too just bonded like most cars so changing means heating and pulling apart

[@momoghal3711]

@@tjsailing5232 Yes you're right, I forgot some of the LCI coupe/vert ones are also plastic. I'd rather sand them down then clear coat them and then PPF them. So long as there's protection it'll last for years.

[@kasrabahmanyar1193]

i appreciate your detailed videos tremendously

[@mauriciocoura4167]

Please continue with videos! You are amazing!

[@Omardottcom]

Oh broooo. It’s good to see you. You look good! I haven’t watched your stuff since I got rid of my e46 like 2-3 years ago. Glad your channel is still going. I was kinda wondering if your were still messin’ with BMW’s or not. This time around I switch to a Mercedes SUV from the E46 but won’t ever forget how helpful you were and how much I learned from you. One thing about the these headlights…. I LOVED when I found out I could replace my lenses on my E46 instead of having to polish them. However,… you don’t need to remove the bumper to replace them. I installed angel eyes and replaced the lenses by just removing the headlight trim, maybe the turn signal, I don’t remember , but I know I didn’t remove the bumper, they just unclipped. Also, I bought a cheap eBay after market ones, and they sucked and didn’t fit right at all. So I put the original ones back on, but eventually I found the ones made by Magneti Marelli that cost around $75 each and those fit perfectly and lasted years. When I sold the car they were still clear. I wish all cars headlights where like these, easily changeable and clip on.

[@HunterOfHalfLife]

Do not replace your xenon block just yet. The issue likely lies within the projector bowls, which undergo significant burning. Remove the bulb and inspect the upper side of the bowl using a mirror. It should exhibit a remarkable shine. However, if you notice any dark or brown discoloration, it indicates a compromised bowl. In such cases, your only recourse is to disassemble the headlight and procure either a new bowl or have it rechromed. It is important to note that rechroming necessitates the expertise of a specialized shop, as chrome sprays and do-it-yourself kits are crap. If the bowls are in good condition, consider purchasing a new bulb first, as they tend to degrade over time. Only then should you invest your funds in the xenon block.

[@readyplayer2]

Thank you so much for this. I also wasted money on a reputable brand’s (3M) headlight restoration kit a few years ago and it lasted less than 2 years. I replaced the lenses with OE units and as you show the job really isn’t that big and you’re probably good for another 10-15 years.

[@dobryanskiy]

New bezels don't seem to be very durable either. I replaced mine 3 years ago, and I noticed the clear coat wearing off already last year. Haven't seen any yellowing yet, but I think it's a less common problem in colder climates in general. I used the OEM Magneti Marelli/AL parts. Adding protective film on top of them could be a good idea.

[@isrealperez9069]

You should try it on the E90 on the E46 it's easy you just replaced a new one and throw it on there but a lot of people always don't want it to save a buck or two

[@logoman6718]

Also quick tip use ceramic protection to protect those new headlight covers. They will last longer

[@GarageItYourself]

Mine aren't bad and cost to Australia doesn't seem too bad. Nice find dude 👌

[@lp2565]

Always a great video, Jason. Thanks for sharing.

[@cylonred8902]

I didn't have to take off the bumper on my 2001 330i to replace the lenses. My side lights come out differently as well.

[@Mark-th1gn]

Too bad facelift coupe is harder to do. But it can be done. Nice video!

[@TrevorGovender-k7u]

Hey Jason, your videos are really well done and easy to follow along. I've used several of them to do work on my E46. Quick question on this headlight lens video. I haven't been successful in finding part numbers for my '04 330ci. The ones you have listed are for the 4 door model. Please let me know if you happened to come across the coupe parts numbers. Thank you and thanks again for the great content. Trevor G

[@tcphoto]

I remember swapping the Bosch lenses on my '01 325Cic and it beat any other method. Unfortunately, my E92 will require much more effort to replace. I've seen a video where he cut the lens off, heat the remaining gasket to remove and then install the new lens.

[@GenesixT9]

Hey the50’s kid, i was wondering if you’d be able to do a video about lazy eye’s on the e90 headlights.

[@woodst408]

I did this a few years back... there was no need to remove the whole light fixture. It can be done by just removing the lens by itself.

[@crazzy88ss]

I used lamin-x after restoration and they look 100% clear 9 years and 65k and 20 track days later.

[@wooltrouserslover777]

been looking at those recently, difficult to apply the lamin x ?

[@HarleyN93]

You can get some brighter bulbs from osram night breakers don't know how they compare to the originals but there definitely not candles in jars

[@kaanguelten]

God bless this man

[@rexlor]

How unfortunate. About 48 hours too late. I just replaced the headlight lenses on mine the other day. I also got new foam gasket. Idk what was up with them but they were damn near impossible to get the lenses to clip in with new gaskets. Had to put the old gasket back in. Because they weren't in bad shape. I did end up breaking 2 tabs underneath trying to get the lenses to clip in.

[@vmoutsop]

You wouldn't have a video or info on doing the same thing for an e53 X5 would you?

[@horacechacon4483]

hi Jason. letting you to know this is my first comment.thanks for all e46 support and tips, i,m a 2004 proudly owner of one.just a quick question .. could you pls send me number part of the headlight you have with xenon upgrade.. mine are H4 BOTH technology. very happy to upgrade.. all the best. regards from mexico.. keep walking !! bye

[@AtharvaKedia-ly8hs]

How are these doing now, since its been a year since you've installed them? Do you see condensation/ fogging up?

[@PlymitBoy]

I love your videos but I really wish you would clean your parts more. The headlights were filthy. Imagine the before and after with just that small detail. Those headlights really could have used a cleaning at 2:56 for example. Just something constructive. Nice video! I recently acquired an 2000 740i and have been wrenching crazy on it. Timing chain guides are coming up real soon. Edit: what’s funny is on your last video, I was critical of you restoring the lens instead of just replacing it lol. Now I’m critical of you not cleaning it hahahah. Anyways, nice BMW man.

[@modal_derp]

If i could afford to get OE lenses, I'd do that, but as a less well-off person, I'll do a DIY refurbish. (I had just taken apart the entire assembly a few days ago and carefully cleaned the entire inside of my headlight assembly and that did like half the job of clearing up my lighting situation.

[@logoman6718]

The light might be dimmer because the xnenon lense can be burned that's quite normal with xenon. try looking at that first.

[@aor3200]

I just put protective tape in front bumper, connectors out, remove blinkers, then just pull lights out. No need to remove bumper in my opinion : )

[@shannon4968]

My god you are so smart❤

[@Саша-ж7ъ7ч]

give a link to the lamps you replaced

[@thetoughcookie3665]

2k clear coat is way to go also. I did earlier polishing ones but it's not permanent.

[@elvinnovruzov5775]

But you don't have to remove headlights to replace the lenses

[@craigc8954]

I’ve got the facelift e46 (2004) and I wish it was as easy !

[@50sKid]

I have the facelift as well and it is this easy, as you see in the video

[@burntnougat5341]

You got a coupe/vert or sedan? Assuming the ci model cause those are glued in

[@craigc8954]

@@50sKid ah I have the convertible and it’s one piece headlight, glued on.

[@craigc8954]

@@burntnougat5341 spot on. Convertible. Didn’t realise that was the difference. It’s also a one piece headlight.

[@50sKid]

aha, didn't know the convertible was glued however I imagine it's like the E90 headlight and you can use a heatgun to separate it, but haven't looked into it so not sure

[@_DIRTe53]

Hey what’s up Jason. Anyway I can private message you or chat with you about the timing chain job on the m62tu engine. I’m having trouble turning the engine by hand and I can’t figure out what’s wrong. It was running before I took it apart. HELP !

[@houseofno]

The E46 used a variety of engines in both the early and late E46s. It's a bit of a misnomer to include the engine type on a headlight video. Your dirty or fogged headlights have nothing to do with your engine type and are not unique or exclusive to the M54 engine type. . Thats a possible wear issue or seal damage issue letting in moisture or just plain dirt issue with your headlights. The E46 used other engines such as the M57 and S54 engines and they get dirty and dogged headlight issues too. I might also add you did a similar video on this issue four years ago. Might have helped viewers with a link to that video in your description.

[@wooltrouserslover777]

friendly reminder the pre lci lights have to be baked in an oven to remove the lenses

[@mmmmm12311]

Hey just wondering if anyone knows about this problem. I have a really weird steering issue on my 330ci e46. The steering wheel sticks only when turning right but very low "force feedback" overall when turning. The things I have replaced are steering rack and joints Lower steering column and "guibo" Suspension and bushings all around. Of course I have had it aligned a couple of times but the problem has been constant. The steering wheel squeaks when turning right aswell.

[@totalsellout2930]

The mechanics on my e46 keeps me so busy i never get around to the cosmetics. Hopefully one day

[@osd1032]

Youre a blessing man 😂

[@n1xx823]

This videos a little old so im hoping someone reads this, I have these exact same headlights, I just installed them today and they were ok at first but once I turned the car on they both turned off, I figured maybe I didn’t connect them properly but all of my connectors were in perfectly fine, so I unplugged the left one and the right one started flickering (the projector). Both low beams worked, anyone have any ideas? Is it faulty headlights or are they just pulling too much power. Any help would be appreciated

[@jerrynavarro9025]

Not necessarily to remove the bumper

[@readyplayer2]

Agree; I did this job a few years ago and have no recollection of removing the bumper. Hardest part was removing the lower curved trim around the lens without breaking the tabs.

[@readyplayer2]

Having watched the video, I’d remove the bumper like Jason if I was doing this again. It’s so much easier to remove the lower trim piece with the headlight off the car.

[@DeclanCrane]

Depends on headlight models. I had ones where I didn’t have to remove the bumper, and later installed ones where you had to. The bumper covered half the bolt, no way to access without damaging the paint.

[@camui191]

Miss yah mate

[@tommysalcedo7490]

Besides BMW, where can I buy BMW e46 parts online without paying ridiculous prices?

[@crossroads4762]

Cyclist vascularity on your legs, how many miles a week do you do?

[@sergiovhhic1730]

Can this be done with the E39 headlights?

[@hardyschilling644]

While your painting the bumper and changing the HID driver you could also swap those aftermarket blinkers for some OEM ones.

[@50sKid]

I swapped the OEM ones for these ones

[@herrbrahms]

Unfortunately, if you have the facelift coupe with adaptive xenon projectors, this can't be done so easily. I was all set to do this, but RealOEM rained on my parade.

[@iqsghettogarage349]

hey bro just did my ccv system on my car now my car won’t accelerate past 5000 rpm’s even tho my foots all they way down on the gas pedal

[@burntnougat5341]

Can't do this on the LCI coupe and convertible headlights. Some people on ebay sell new lenses but removing the old is a big pain in the butt. Real annoying LCI design

[@TheRacerRich]

If only it were true to could get lenses for all variants of e46 😢

[@xcuber123]

Does this work on M52TU headlights as well? xD

[@josephlewis1823]

👍🏻

[@rbell7666]

Wish I had a buck for every time I have said, "The 50's Kid was right"

[@pedreroja]

Excellent video. Can I install LED lights in these headlights?

[@Jr-sp1xm]

You can but they say that led light bulbs aren’t the best, that HID are better. I have LED bulbs on my e46 and I haven’t had any problems

[@burntnougat5341]

Not recommended. Replace the projectors and xenons and your're good to go

[@JayE36M3]

I NEED THIS 911

[@jaguar7051]

No No No you do not need to take the bumper out. Onl;y remove those plastics under the headlights and unscrew the screws.

[@50sKid]

You will break them as you cannot get to the clips. Removing the bumper is the safe way to not damage anything

[@jaguar7051]

@@50sKid I did many times during mods on my headlights - in projector installed Demon eyes - I do not like rings look very stupid - I have two projectors in each headlight - yellow and blue Demon eyes installed - looks wonderful.

[@isrealperez9069]

You don't have to remove it you just remove the under piece of the headlights remove that and snake it out it's way easier than how you're doing it

[@50sKid]

You’ll break the clips

[@isrealperez9069]

@@50sKid hey you won't break the clip I have removed it many times on my E46 when I had it till it died out so now I bought a E90 other than that it was easier for me to remove it just by the underneath it it was easy peasy I've learned a lot of method that you used to do on your E46 I follow you from day one until I upgraded myself with an E90 I'm looking forward in your new videos of your E90

[@jayparnes]

Sand 600/1000/1500/2000, machine polish with heavy cut compound orange then white pads, seal with any synthetic sealer at least every 6 months. Same sealer you use on paint. Easy to apply and no fading.

[@flippy9133]

I did this on all of my e46s, too bad I cant replace the lenses easily on my e87 :D they looks like shit, also e46 coupes are glued too

[@PatrickLibertatis]

"Reconditioning". Probably a somehow misleading title 😂

[@horoyrichards3788]

Too much unnecessary work there 50. Just take off the indicator lights and unclip the headlight cover.