DIY: Volkswagen Headlight Switch Removal

Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• none

Procedure:

• ensure that the switch is in the off position
• push center of switch inward
• while pushed in, rotate the switch portion clockwise
• the switch portion should rotate clockwise to approximately the "on" position
• it is perfectly normal for the lights turn on in the process
• then pull straight out
• turn the switch back to the "off" position or counter clockwise
• the lights will then turn off
• ensure the lights are off, as this reduces the chance of the contacts arcing when the electrical connector is removed
• finally remove the electrical connector, there will be tabs on each side of the plug which need to be depressed
• installation in reverse
• when installing, ensure the switch is in the removal position so the tabs are retracted so it doesn't catch up on the outer casing when being pushed back into position

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Why isn't this car equipped with a fog light switch?

This is a base model North American Volkswagen Golf.

Video tutorial on how to remove the headlight switch on a VW Golf, Jetta, Bora, Beetle, Passat, and well as other VW models. This procedure also applies to some Audi and Porsche models as well. Even thought this switch was common on VW MK4 models, it's found on other generations as well, but instead of a round switch they are rectangular. This applied to both the headlight switch with and without fog lights. No tools are needed to remove the switch assembly. If you are wondering why this car is not equipped with fog lights, this is a North American car. This particular tutorial was done on a 2004 Volkswagen Golf TDI.