Original BMW Instrument Panel Light Bulb 6.5V 0.8W for BMW 5 Series E34 and 7 Series E32 (1988–1995)

The Original BMW bulb 65-81-1-374-495 is a 6.5-volt, 0.8-watt instrument panel light bulb that illuminates the gauges and indicators in the E34 5 Series and E32 7 Series built from 1988 through 1995. BMW rates it at 6.5 V and 0.8 W, and each bulb weighs about 1 g. BMW's parts data shows production of this number starting in June 1986. An instrument bulb of this type sits in a small holder behind the cluster and lights the dial faces and indicator windows from behind, so the gauges stay readable after dark. The low wattage keeps heat output small inside the closed cluster housing.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

One part number covers both the midsize and full-size sedans of this era. On the E34 side, BMW applies it to the 525i with the M20 and M50 sixes, the 530i and 540i with the M60 V8, the 535i with the M30, and the M5 with the S38. On the E32 side it appears in the 735i and 735iL with the M30, the 740i and 740iL with the M60, and the 750iL with the M70 V12. Because the same bulb serves every one of these clusters, a shop that keeps E34 and E32 cars on the road can stock a single number. BMW sells it by the piece, so order one bulb for each socket you plan to service.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Genuine)
• Part number: 65-81-1-374-495
• BMW part name: Bulb, used as the instrument panel light bulb
• Rating: 6.5 V, 0.8 W
• Weight: approximately 1 g (0.04 oz)
• Production start: June 1986
• Sold individually, one bulb per order quantity
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

Is this the same bulb for the E34 and the E32?
Yes. BMW uses this one part number in both the E34 5 Series and E32 7 Series models covered here.

What voltage and wattage is it?
BMW rates this bulb at 6.5 V and 0.8 W.

How many bulbs come with one order?
BMW sells it individually, so each order quantity is a single bulb.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm year, model, submodel, and application notes before ordering. With over 20 years of parts and fitment experience, PMB Performance can match this to your VIN.