Bulb Changing On Number Plate

[winnie]

Both my number plate bulbs have died so I decided to change them but when I looked could not fathom how to get at them.

My Citroen is a C5 diesel estate 2001.

Hoping it will be a simple fix.

 

[paul.h]

If they have the clear plastic lenses on them, use a screwdriver (protected with a bit of cardboard to avoid damaging any paintwork) in the middle of the lens at the top side (does not work on the bottom side) to lever the lens off. The lens is held by lugs on the base. Clean the lens before refitting since they get dirty inside.

[winnie]

I have managed to get to the bulbs, brought 2 new ones, put in but they did not work, tested bulbs in my disability scooter and they worked.

Just before tackling the number plate bulbs I changed the off side stop/tail light bulb, do you think I have undone a connector there.

All lights was working once but then I had to give the tail light a bang, loose connection.

[paul.h]

It could be the no. plate bulb holders are a bit corroded and need scraping with a file where the bulb contacts the holder. If you have a volt meter you could check for 12 volts across the holder contacts. If you do not have 12 volts then possibly the electrical connectors to the bulb holders need cleaning up, but it there is not 12 volts at the connectors then maybe there is a break in the wiring between the body and tailgate.

 

The Haynes manual wiring diagram shows both no. plate lights share the same electrical supply and earth point from the bsi fuse box but they also share the same fuse as the tail lights, so if the tail lights are working then the fuses are ok.

 

You might also check the rear wiper and heated rear window are working in case there is a wiring break since the wires to these share the same route in to the tail gate.

[winnie]

I have got the number plait bulb covers out and put in new bulbs, no light, I have checked wiring on rear stop light off side.

Now I need to check near side tomorrow as would you believe that stop light has gone.

Hoping for a dry day for this.

[paul.h]

From memory, you may find the 5/21w bulbs are for tail light and fog light and the 21w bulb is the stop light just to confuse things.

[winnie]

I have now changed the rear stop/tail light bulb so now have lights.

My next job will be to test if there is power getting to the number plait lights with my test meter, this will be a job for my wife.

Not doing any more today as I am wet and fed up with light bulb changing.

I made one mistake buy buying cheep bulbs from the Range and discovering the little side pins was not in line but off set so had to go to get yet more bulbs.

I am coming to the conclusion I need to change my car for a Volvo, only joking.