Light bulb legislation

I was wondering whether there is any legislation to force manufacturers to build cars that allow the 'ordinary' motorist to change a light bulb.

I have just bought a 2007 Vauxhall Vectra and when I returned to it one evening I was informed via the warning system that I had a faulty offside front light.
As I had purchased the 'recommended' set of bulbs, I popped open the bonnet - then shut it again, went to the glove box, pulled out the owner's handbook and soon discovered that I needed to take the car to a Vauxhall workshop. Aside from leaving the car parked overnight in a dodgy part of London, I had no option other than driving home – illegally.

Next day, I took the car to my local Vauxhall dealership and several hours and £52 later I had a fully functioning set of lights!

I have written to Vauxhall several times to no avail. Oh, I get a reply alright, but not one admitting that this 'design' is not fit for purpose, e.g. the necessity to be able to change a headlamp bulb by the roadside! And, no surprise here, they won't be helping me towards the cost incurred, giving the reason that the bulbs are wear and tear items.

Asked on 9 January 2012 by rayc

Answered by Honest John
No. Rather stupidly, some EC countries (like France) require drivers to carry a kit of spare bulbs, but do not require manufacturers to build cars in a way that makes it possible for a driver to fit them.
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