How to Change the Brake Light Bulb on a 2005 VW Beetle TDI

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A VW Beetle.

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.

Steps

1. 1
   Use the key remote, fob, or key to raise the deck lid.

   
   
2. 2
   

   Figure B-1 Using Scewdriver to Remove Access Cover
   

   Figure B-2 Cover Removed
   Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry off the cover to access lens assembly (Figures B1 and B2).
3. 3
   

   Figure B-3 Removing Knob to Lens Assembly
   

   Figure B-4 Lens Support Knob Removed
   Use the fingers to remove the knob of the tail light lens assembly (Figures B-3 and B-4).
4. 4
   

   Figure B-5 Loosening Lens With Trim Tool
   Use a non-marring trim tool to pry loose the lens assembly (Figure B-5).
5. 5
   

   Figure B-6 Loosening Lens for Removal
   Rotate trim tool around lens to loosen lens assembly (Figure B-6).
6. 6
   

   Figure B-7 Tail Light Assembly Removal
   Remove tail light lens assembly from support cradle (Figure B-7).
7. 7
   

   Figure B-8 Remove Bulb Socket From Tail Light Assembly
   Remove the bulb socket from tail light assembly (Figure B-8).
8. 8
   

   Figure B-9 Visual Check Bulb Socket
   Once the bulb socket is removed, visually check for cracks and burned electrical contacts (Figure B-9).
9. 9
   

   Figure B-10 Checking Socket With DMM
   

   Figure B-11 Checking Socket and Wiring With DMM
   Check the bulb socket with a digital multimeter (DMM) for continuity (Figures B-10 and B-11).
10. 10
    

    Figure B-12 Brake Light Bulb Removed From Socket
    Remove the bulb from the bulb socket (Figure B-12).
11. 11
    

    Figure B-13 Checking Bulb for Continuity With DMM
    Check the bulb filament and internal connections with the DMM (Figure B-13).
12. 12
    Obtain a new replacement bulb from the VW part center. Ask for P/N N0177836.
13. 13
    Install the new bulb in the bulb socket with the lens assembly removed.
14. 14
    With the ignition switch "ON", have an assistant press on the brake pedal.
15. 15
    

    Figure B-14 Checking New Bulb
    Check that the bulb filament is burning brightthrough the bulb glass. (Figure B-14).
16. 16
    Reinstall all parts in the reverse order from which they were removed.
17. 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

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