[Editor's note: Inspired by John's change, I purchased a pair of red 194s, and replaced the two map light bulbs with these. I've always found the map lights to be too bright and glaring, but the new bulbs are fantastic! The red light that interferes much less with your vision outside the car at night. While the coating may cut down on the total amount of light, the 194s also seem to be lower wattage. This gives a much dimmer light, just enough to read by. By leaving the original clear 183 bulb in the main position, this now gives me the choice of having a bright, normal colored light, or the low-glare red light. - Brian]

I changed one of my map and the dome lights to be red so I can see better at night outside the car without glare inside the car. I always thought the idea of a map light is about seeing the street address with headlights while finding out where you are with an interior light. Also, I did it because I am an astronomer who wants to save my night vision (and others) when getting in and out of my car. I left the drivers map light white as for as needed reasons (red things are hard to see in red light).

Although red may not be preferred by other owners, the method of changing the bulbs might still be helpful. The space to put your fingers in the light is small and you can not get a firm grip on the bulb. So try this ...

Tools needed one rubber band.
Parts needed two (2) # R194 bulbs. (normal bulbs # 183)

Warning: (if the bulb is still good) let bulb cool for at least 5 minutes as to not melt the rubber band or burn your fingers.

1) Remove the light cover as shown in the owners manual.
2) Wrap the rubber band on you index finger several times
3) Roll the rubber band on to the light bulb that you are changing.
4) Pull the bulb (using the rubber band as a grip) straight out.
5) Replace bulb like normal (no more need for the rubber band).

- John W. Nicholson