My wife has 05 ES 330. The bulb went out in the gear shift area, so she can't see the different gears at night. The dealer wants $70.00 to replace the bulb. Has anyone changed the bulb? What kind of bulb does it require? and How difficult is it? Thanks in advance for any assistance.

I don't know but will look tomorrow. probably have to lift up center console from the back to get at the bulb. if they only wanted $70, that is for 30 min. time. so let's both scope this out and see what you have to remove to lift console and get to the bulb.

looks like the collar with the piece going around the shifter pop up to give quick access. I did pry up on the collar in my 05ES just in front of where the cup holder comes out, and it started to come up easily. bulb must be in there somewhere. makes sense since everything in there is so nip and tuck to pop the center piece in for access to the bulb, shift lock switch, etc.

i just had mine out today while taking CD changer unit out. check out thread i posted today for a video with removal process, bulb is there and easily accessible. 70$ for 1$ bulb? this should be ILLEGAL!
if you time me i can probably replace it in 5 minutes, no kidding.

In the meantime, all she has to do is look up at the the dash display to see what gear she picked if she can't tell by feel. anyway, when you get the bulb plz post part number, or better yet a picture of your new bulb in the clip down under there.

I did it on an 01 and i took 20 minutes and a 194 bulb. Probably not the same for your es, but figured i'd just give some input

Dealers are taking care of their customers! That's what you get for owning a Lexus, people think you're loaded with cash and they can help themselves to it.

lexus - loaded with cash? 10 grand over loaded camry and you are all of the sudden mega rich? lololol

The bulb on mine just blew out today as well :-(

and..........?

What "and"????

I'm looking for a easier, less costly way to replace it like the OP.....

Thanks, I will take a look at and see if I can do the same....

lol...yeah it is pricey, where did you post your video?...Thanks

No I appreciate it, I'm just trying to see if I can do it myself.....

I know on our 96ES it just pops up (woodgrain bezel that surrounds shifter) and then there's plastic piece that is held on by 4 screws and it comes off and you should be able to change out bulb. Can't take more than 10 minutes if that.