imrealdumb

The low beam on my 2004 E-Class has gone out. I watched the following video and it says it's simple, but I've read from comments that it's hard to navigate your hand to remove/re-insert the bulb.

1. How hard is it to do actually for a novice? The low beam is out is on the driver's side, if that matters.

2. If it's just the driver's side that is out, is it ok to just replace that one, or do I need to replace both driver's and passenger's side at the same time?

Thanks.

PSDCampervan

Left one harder than right due to coolant degas bottle in way but most important thing when changing a halogen is not to allow skin oil from fingers touch glass of bulb or new will blow faster. That is what makes it so challenging to do imho., well that & often socket's wiring insulation crumbles off when being manipulated, it gets brittle by so many heat cycles. Not safe to ignore if this occurs as a short or even fire could result if not addressed. I sheathed both wires with gorilla tape folded over itself & that worked pretty well as a permanent solution.

bbirdwell

Replace both to ensure colors match. I personally prefer 5000K color temperature. Spring clip takes a bit to release and install. Mechanic's mirror will help before sticking your fingers in there. When you pull the socket, note its orientation so you can reinsert it the same way. 30 seconds if you do it correctly, 30 minutes if you don't. High voltage connector automatically pops off for safety when you rotate the cover. Reinstalling the high voltage connector is done blind. Doable so don't get frustrated.

rapidoxidation

Replace all 4 (high and low) bulbs at once and you'll not have to think about doing it again for a LONG time (if you get premium bulbs). I replaced all of them on my '05 about 4 years ago. It cost about $200 for all 4 bulbs, but I haven't had to mess with it since.
Edit: Found the record. My car has 173K on it now. Bulbs were replaced in December 2017 when the car had 134K miles, and I used Sylvania ZXE bulbs. They're pretty bright for halogen bulbs.