Replace High Stop Lamp Bulbs

[smalcom]

I have a 97 Q45t with the high stop lamp in the spoiler. Can't figure out how to replace bulbs in the darn thing. Can anyone help?

Also, does anyone know where to get a replacement shift lock cover (the thing in the console that lets you release the transmission without having your foot on the brake.) The little cover that keeps dust, crumbs, etc. out of the release is missing. Any idea where/how to get one? Thanks.

[maxnix]

http://www.infinitipartsusa.com

Got FSM?

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Q45/

On the G50 it is a spring loaded catch. Push simultaneously with both thumbs equally spaced.

[goody90q45]

I have a 97 Q45t with the high stop lamp in the spoiler. Can't figure out how to replace bulbs in the darn thing. Can anyone help?

I have a spoiler on my 94Q and if you're talking about removing the stop lamp assembly.....push inward on the lens about 1" from each end. The best way to describe it is that it's spring-loaded and you should feel the entire assembly moving towards the front of the car. It might take a few tries but keep working it fwd and aft and side to side and it will pop out. Don't feel bad. I looked at mine for months trying to figure out how I was going to change that $2 bulb without having to remove the spoiler.

EDIT: Sorry for the repeat Brian. I didn't see your post before putting mine up.

If I'm off-base and you've already figured out how to remove the assembly and you're reading this while holding the bulb frozen in the socket...Spray with WD-40 and get a pair of needle nose pliers and force it out. Good luck either way.

The small shift lock cover is a tough one. I had the same piece missing when I bought my 94Q and the stealership wanted me to buy the entire shift console for about $400 to get this 50 cent part. Try Bullittandy in the Infiniti Parts For Sale Forum or search Craigslist for a partout. It's a cheap part to ship- an envelope and 42 cent stamp.

[maxnix]

Also, Mike, it's an early FGY33, and those spoilers were unique to 1997 - 1998.

[smalcom]

Thanks for the info. Will try to get the stop light out this afternoon. Will let you know how it goes.

[Warspite]

At least you just stared at yours and did NOT do what the previous owner of my 94 Q did... You guessed it! The infamous screwdriver and apply brute force engineering trick! I got a hard copy of the FSM about a week affter picking up my Q, and geez! Came right out using the two thumb method!

I had to do a bit of touch-up where the failed attempt at prying took place. At least they didn't break the lens.

Tough machine, that Q is....

[goody90q45]

......I got a hard copy of the FSM about a week affter picking up my Q, and geez! Came right out using the two thumb method!

Sometimes the seemingly complicated things have the simplest of fixes.

.....Will try to get the stop light out this afternoon. Will let you know how it goes.

Stephen- Were you able to figure out the thumb sequence and get that bulb changed without removing the spoiler?

[smalcom]

Stephen- Were you able to figure out the thumb sequence and get that bulb changed without removing the spoiler?

Haven't tried yet. once the heat wave quits here I'm going to try.Steve

[smalcom]

Finally tried to remove the stoplamp from the spoiler. Would not budge. Had to be up in Newark, DE this AM, so stopped at the only Infiniti dealer in Delaware for help.

It turns out that for 1977 the Q45t lamp is a single unit, with multiple LEDs, which means that you cant just replace a bulb, you have to replace the whole unt.

OK, so I'll replace the unit. The cost of the lamp is $269. OUCH! The parts guy offers me a 15% discount, which brings the price to $229. I say go ahead and order it.

None in the warehouse, so he searches all the other dealers inventory. Guess what! There isn't one anywhere in the country. We would have to order from Japan, who would have to build the darn thing and it would take at least 6 weeks.

I decided that the lamp still has some lights working, so I said forget it.

Oh, the joys of owning an older car.

[maxnix]

Call Joe.

http://www.infinitipartsusa.com

[smalcom]

Call Joe.

http://www.infinitipartsusa.com

Going to. Found the site last night, and they seem to have the part @$201. Thanks for the info.

[smalcom]

Going to. Found the site last night, and they seem to have the part @$201. Thanks for the info.

Never did get back to the group. I found the lamp at a used parts dealer. 60 bucks. Only problem...it doesn't push, it is bolted on. Oh, well, dealer here I come.