Tail Light Burned Out & Melted Socket

[Butchee]

I recently purchased a 95 525i with 112K on the odometer. I received a tail light warning this evening on the dash and checked it out at home. The socket where the bulb locks in was slightly melted - I couldn't tell whether it was fresh or not. Anybody had this happen? Not sure if the previous owner had the light installed incorrectly or not.

thanks
butch

[superdeadman]

what was the wattage for the bulb?
if the bulb was high wattage, it could have melted your wires and such
so yeah, incorrect installation will do it

[Steve530]

Originally posted by Butchee@Aug 17 2005, 04:23 PM
I recently purchased a 95 525i with 112K on the odometer. I received a tail light warning this evening on the dash and checked it out at home. The socket where the bulb locks in was slightly melted - I couldn't tell whether it was fresh or not. Anybody had this happen? Not sure if the previous owner had the light installed incorrectly or not.

thanks
butch

[snapback]370351[/snapback]

Check for corrosion. That creates resistance to the current that results in heat.

But, no, I've never heard of this on an e39.

[///M Power]

Ive heard of it, but usually for front bulbs. It happens a lot when people want really blue lookign headlights, so they go out and buy some cheapo japanese brand headlights that fit their car, without checking wattage, and it usually results in melting their bulb socket and wires.

[shragon]

i've actually heard of this happening many times. do make sure you are using the correct wattage bulbs. many bulbs will fit in the socket, but may not be the correct wattage. when in doubt, hit up the stealer, and they can get you the correct bulbs for not that much more than the automotive store.