replace bulb

[Meadowboy]

How do you replace a VW Passat Headlight and sidelight bulb (latest model)

[speedysteve]

I've just done this and it is a pig of a job first time and very poor design IMO.
Remove the plastic stuff in the way and unhinge the plastic rear cover to the lamp cluster.
You will now be able to see the sidelight holder using the wifes compact mirror or mirror on a stalk...
You can risk pulling on the wires as it is just push fit but that is a risk and won't get you anywhere if they come off in your hand,
I cut down an old pair of 5" long stub nosed pliers, cut about
one inch off the handles and ground the noses down until the circular grip bit was at the front.
This means they can grip on the taper on the holder.
Manouver into position mostly by feel and grip gently and pull straight back.
The bulb is a push fit 12V 5W all glass one.

If you can email me I can send you some pics of the above.
Good luck

[speedysteve]

See

http://www.ofoto.co.uk/BrowsePhotos.jsp?&collid=4925 1134733&page=1&sort_order=0

For photos

[Meadowboy]

Hi Steve,

Thanks for your reply. Obviously this is not going to be easy and demonstrates yet again how the manufacturers are conspiring with garages to force us to run up unnecessary bills. I wonder if they use any special tools for the job? Did you attempt to change the main beam bulb as well?

I can be contacted on [email protected].