I recently replaced both left and right side DRL/ turn signal bulbs in my 05. The bulbs that I took out still test ok for continuity, but you can feel a slight "burr" where they seem to have overheated/ arced in the sockets. I replaced the bulbs with NA3157 from NAPA (they have no info on the 5702ka bulbs), used dielectric grease in the connection and so far so good. My question - I know there is a service bulletin regarding the replacement of the wiring harness(s). Is this really necessary if they are working? I am very concerned about taking my car into the dealer (they are the ONLY one around), yet I only have about a month left on warranty. Anybody experience this, and what suggestions do you have? I had a GMC pickup that I remember having to replace the DRL's almost monthly, as they burned out quickly. I know these run hot, but will the grease keep them cool enough to last? I only have 7000 miles on the car. Thanks for any advice.

 

Except for the connector deformation, the life of the bulb is a function of duty cycle and vibration. Normally, I would expect them to last several years.

If the connector is deformed due to heat from a high resistance connection and/or heat from the bulb, the connector should be replace as per the 2005 C6 bulletin. I think the bulletin also called for a "cooler" DRL/turn signal bulb.

 

I didn't know that there was a cool bulb option. I replaced mine with Silver Star bulbs because I didn't like the yellow look when the car was parked (they are yellow when on). Was that a mistake?

Thanks!

 

Or just turn the headlight switch to the marker light position right after you start the car. This will turn the DRLs off and turn the front and rear marker lights on which do NOT burn as bright and last much longer.

With the marker lights on, you still have some lights glowing for "safety", but no worries about frequent bulb failure or bulb socket failure.

When I'm going through heavily shaded wooded areas I'll turn the fog lamps on too in addition to the marker lamps... all these lamps are easily detectible by other drivers, but don't burn too brightly... and all these bulbs are easy to change too (unlike the main headlamps).

I've got the habit down good... whenever I start the engine, my hand is already on the headlamp switch... I either switch off all lamps completely, or turn on the marker lamps which automatically kill the DRLs, immediately after start up. Zero bulb failures in over 16k miles or so. I do see lots of C6s on the road though with only one DRL glowing... they apparently fail pretty often.

 

I think there was a service bulletin for a whole bunch of GM vehicles with DRL bulb problems. Something about the wiring harness being built wrong and the bulb connectors not fitting correctly.

 

I think the original bulb was a Sylvania. The new bulb recommendation is the 5702 KA Phillips bulb, P/N 15233607.

Here is the bulletin:

Subject: Front Park/Turn Signal Bulb Intermittently Inoperative (Check Bulb Operation and Replace Headlamp Wiring Harness, If Necessary) #05-08-42-009 - (07/01/2005)



Models: 2005-2006 Chevrolet Corvette




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Condition
Some customers may comment that the left or right or both front park/turn signal bulbs are inoperative. This condition may be intermittent and replacing the bulb may not correct it.

Cause
This condition may be due to a loss of contact between the base of the bulb and the socket.

Correction
Important: Some early versions of the headlamp wiring harness have a section of harness that is not needed for this bulletin. Prior to installing harness to headlamp, disconnect and discard this section.

Check the bulb for correct operation off the vehicle by using a 12-volt power source. If the bulb is found to be inoperative, replace the bulb with a 5702 KA Phillips bulb, P/N 15233607. If the bulb is found to operate out of the socket, then the headlamp wiring harness should be replaced. Remove the headlamp assembly for access to the wiring harness (refer to the Front Headlamp Replacement in SI, Document ID #1507485).

Parts Information
Part Number
Description

19120497
Harness Assembly, Headlamp Wiring

 

I have the 5702 KA Phillips bulb in mine and it still goes out and I have to take it out, remove it from the socket, put it back in and everything works fine. It just sucks having to do it 3 times within as many months

 

As I'm far from a fan of DRLs + I start my car in a garage, which turns the dam headlights on. I turn the stalk thingy right after I push the start button, and turn off all the lights. When & if I need light I use what I want. I for one am not interested in replacing the DRL bulbs a lot of times or in buying new headlights after the warranty period is over. (Mucho money)

 

almost 20k miles. Daily driver and no problems with DRL bulbs.

 

calemaster's you have a pm
thanks
John