How to Change a Bulb in a 2001 Chrysler 300M
by Steve Bradley
The Chrysler 300M, a sports sedan manufactured by Chrysler from 1999 to 2004 was a revival of the famed Chrysler 300 name. This sporty luxury vehicle, like all vehicles, comes complete with a vast array of lights and light bulbs. Each of these bulbs will burn out over timed, necessitating a replacement. Instead of automatically calling the local repair shop for an appointment, you should try this repair yourself.
Step 1
Park your Chrysler 300M on a stable surface, turn off the engine, and apply the parking brake before doing any work. Make sure there is enough light to work with as well. If necessary, use a clip light, as you may be peering into areas where ambient light will not reach.
Step 2
Inspect your 300M to determine how you will gain access to the light bulb. Normally this means opening the trunk or hood and looking behind the exterior lens. This will be the rear of the light assembly.
Step 3
Remove any coverings, panels or dust shield between you and the interior of the light assembly. For example, the taillight assembly is covered by the back corner of the trunk lining and a small plastic access panel. Use a slotted screwdriver to unhook the lining, and then unscrew the four screws holding the access panel onto the rear of the taillight assembly with a Phillips screwdriver.
Step 4
Unplug the electrical connector from the back of the light assembly. This cable provides power from the Chrysler 300M to the individual light assemblies. Squeeze the base of the plug as it enters the light box, and pull it free. This will give you access to the burned-out bulb.
Step 5
Put on gloves before handling the bulb. This will protect your hand from possible broken glass, and the oils from your hand can damage the new bulb.
Step 6
Remove the old bulb. For exterior lights, you'll need to push the light in gently, and then turn to the left to loosen and remove. Interior lights will simply snap out. Insert the replacement bulb and reverse the above steps to reassemble the light assembly.
References
- Light Bulbs: How to Replace Headlight Bulbs
- iAutobodyParts: Replacing Headlights and Taillights
- "Chrysler 300M Owner's Manual"; Chrysler; 2003
Things You'll Need
- Headlight replacement bulb No. 9006SU
- Taillight replacement bulb No. 3157LL
- Set of screwdrivers
- Gloves
Writer Bio
Steve Bradley is an educator and writer with more than 12 years of experience in both fields. He maintains a career as an English teacher, also owning and operating a resume-writing business. Bradley has experience in retail, fashion, marketing, management and fitness. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and classics.
