Original BMW Bulb Socket for 740i, 740iL, and 750iL Tail Lights, Two-Pole, E38 7 Series (1998–2001)

On the E38 BMW 740i, 740iL, and 750iL from 1998–2001, this Original BMW two-pole bulb socket holds a bulb inside the tail light and connects it to the car's wiring. A tail light assembly carries the bulbs for the tail, brake, reverse, and turn signal lamps, and the bulb carrier is the piece that seats them in the housing. BMW gives a weight of 10 g (0.35 oz) for this socket, and production of the number began in September 1998. It is sold individually. When a light housing is damaged or not sealed properly, water can get in and corrode the electrical contacts, which shows up as a lamp that misbehaves or fails, often with moisture visible behind the lens.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

BMW's parts data uses this socket across the E38 7 Series, including the M62-powered 740i and 740iL and the M73 and M73N 750iL. BMW shows no earlier part number that it supersedes. BMW lists this two-pole socket for the E38 7 Series, and production of the number began in September 1998.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Original BMW Parts)
• Part number: 63-21-8-381-243
• BMW name: bulb socket
• Position: tail light
• Contacts: two-pole
• Weight: 10 g (0.35 oz)
• Production start: September 1998
• Sold as: single piece
• Warranty: 24 months

Common Questions

What does two-pole mean on this socket?
The socket has two electrical contacts for its bulb circuit.

Does this socket replace an older BMW number?
BMW shows no earlier number for it; production of this socket began in September 1998.

For the rest of your E38 lighting, the PMB parts desk can pull matching Original BMW pieces.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the table below to verify the year and submodel for your build. PMB Performance has spent over 20 years matching parts to vehicles and can verify this against your VIN.