The focus of this project is changing the right-hand (RH) brake light on a 2005 VW Beetle TDI (although the same steps can be used for the left hand side, as well as on several other VW models). The rear tail light bulb is accessed by removing the lens housing cover located in the trunk of the vehicle. Following the below steps, you will be able to replace the tail light bulb yourself and save $100 in professional repairs.
Step 1
Use the key remote or key to raise the deck lid.
Step 2
Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry off the cover to access lens assembly (Figures B1 and B2).
Step 3
Use the fingers to remove the knob of the tail light lens assembly (Figures B-3 and B-4).
Step 4
Use a non-marring trim tool to pry loose the lens assembly (Figure B-5).
Step 5
Rotate trim tool around lens to loosen lens assembly (Figure B-6).
Step 6
Remove tail light lens assembly from support cradle (Figure B-7).
Step 7
Remove the bulb socket from tail light assembly (Figure B-8).
Step 8
Once the bulb socket is removed, visually check for cracks and burned electrical contacts (Figure B-9).
Step 9
Check the bulb socket with a digital multimeter (DMM) for continuity (Figures B-10 and B-11).
Step 10
Remove the bulb from the bulb socket (Figure B-12).
Step 11
Check the bulb filament and internal connections with the DMM (Figure B-13).
Step 12
Obtain a new replacement bulb from the VW part center. Ask for P/N N0177836.
Step 13
Install the new bulb in the bulb socket with the lens assembly removed.
Step 14
With the ignition switch "ON", have an assistant press on the brake pedal.
Step 15
Check that the bulb filament is burning bright through the bulb glass. (Figure B-14).
Step 16
Reinstall all parts in the reverse order from which they were removed.
Step 17
Road test the vehicle.
Tips
- A trim tool is a plastic pry bar that doesn't scratch the clearcoat finish.
- The bulb socket is removed from the lens assembly using a twisting motion. Ears on the socket mate to three (3) slots in the lens assembly (Figure B-9)
- The DMM is the tool of choice to accurately check the bulb and bulb socket (Figure B-10). It is a simple tool to learn to use. It can be bought at any auto parts store for less than $20.00.
- The DMM showed a reading on the meter dial of "0" (Figure B-11). This would indicate that there is continuity through the wires and contacts and bulb with no internal breaks.
- To check the bulb filament with a DMM, place the meter selector switch on "OHMS". Place one lead (black) from meter to the shell of the bulb. Place the red lead to the base of the bulb. The reading on the display of the DMM showed "OL" or open. It indicates there is an open circuit in the bulb, in this case the filament (Figure B-13).
- The brake light bulb needs to be replaced for proper operation of the brake system.
Warnings
- Complete these steps and tips with the ignition switch in the "OFF" position.
- Most states require a state safety inspection. The brake light and other safety equipment should be in working order before taking the vehicle for inspection. A vehicle that has a burned out rear brake light will fail the inspection.
Things You'll Need
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Non-marring trim tool
- DMM (digital multimeter)
- Replacement bulb
