I used to tinker with fixing small things on the car but as you get older this activity is less fun. Back in 2014 I had replaced a couple of the instrument panel bulbs and it was pretty straightforward following various how-tos and videos posted here and elsewhere. Then a few years later one of the bulbs died which I just tolerated. Then more recently a second bulb died. These were 2 of the larger bulbs the are responsible for lighing up the speedo and tach and I kept meaning to replacing them but always found something else to do. When I brought in the car to my local guy for oil change and fluids I asked if he could also change the burnt out bulbs (I had spares that I brought him). He said he would have to charge $150 for that and I said okay. Turns out he didn't have time (or probably the desire) to fiddle around with something like that so today I found myself with extra time since the wife went to lunch with some friends. So I ended up tackling the bulb change myself which ended up going very smoothly (took about 45 minutes in my snails-pace mode). Once again I did not bother disconnecting the battery and also didn't bother disconnecting the connectors to the valet switch or interior temperature sensor in the bolster and just set the bolster down.

It felt good to do a bit of my own tinkering again. It tempts be to try and tackle the antenna motor removal/replacement but I think I will let the local auto audio shop fiddle with that since access looks like a pain.

Doug

 

Good job. There is indeed a satisfaction of completing even the small bits. Keeps me busy and out of the wife's hair. Luckily my newest XK8 doesn't need anything big yet. I have been enjoying the odd fixes and cosmetic touches I finally have the time to do.

There is indeed a satisfaction of completing even the small bits. Keeps me busy and out of the wife's hair.

 

With two of the worlds most unreliable cars ..the jag and a range rover I have plenty to do.
The stupid high prices some of you quote makes it all worthwhile.