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MG MGF Technical - Replacing Headlight bulbs

I noticed last night that one of my headlight bulbs had gone. What I want to know is, is it easy to replace them and anyone know how much they it is likely to cost?
Rob

Pretty easy Rob, and does not require any tools to do so.

When you open the front bonnet, behind each lamp unit are what are best described as screw-on plastic lids. Un-screw, and you'll see the wiring loom. Pull off the connector to the affected bulb. The bulb is held in place by a bent bit of wire (spring clip). Unclip (don't loose the spring clip!) and withdrawal the bulb (H1 IIRC- but check)

Installing the new bulb is a simple case of the reversal of the above. Be careful though not to touch the glass part of the bulb- doing so will adversely effect its longevity. If accidently touched, wash with white spirits before proceeding...

How much depends on the bulb type and manufacturer. Many seem very happy with the Phillips Vision + bulbs (sold on powerbulbs.com). I haven't tried them (although very tempted!)

Alternatively, plenty available from your local Halfords in the 5 - 10 quid range.

HTH
Rob Bell

i got my vision plus bulbs from powerbulbs.com, excellent service and cheap too, even got some free fog light bulbs!!!!
richb

Rob, also note that the bulbs are H1 on some MGF's and H7 on others so check you're getting the right type.
Finn Steele

FAQ Rob Bell,

There you go, that's one for you to write up for the new FAQ including a couple of snapshots. ;-)
Paul Lathwell

H7 has a double spade connection on the back of the bulb (like yours Rob when we changed one when you visited) or single spade connection for the H1. From the front the H7 is a smaller H4 with a dark grey cap on the end of the envelope.

Rog
Roger Parker

Paul, will have a look at this for you :o)

H7 v H1 - is this an age thing? As you say, my early 95/96 MGF has H7 main beam, whereas others have H1 - is there a cut off VIN/ date where the change was made?

No idea, but is there a difference in the design of the head lamp bowl? Might be relevant to those purchasing second hand items for their F's to paint...
Rob Bell

Curiously, both mine are H1s and my MGF is and early 1.8i (no 525). I particularly know this having spent £30 ish on the Rover spare bulbs box and got 1xH4 and 1xH7 which are (AFAIK) useless. Now have Phillips Vision plus H1s from powerbulbs.
Chaz

This thread was discussed between 15/03/2002 and 18/03/2002

MG MGF Technical index

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