There is a separate fuse for the daytime running lights (DRL). I think there might be a relay also. If the green DRL indicator comes on, but the lights themselves don't, check the fuse and the relay. I think it is in the fuse/relay center by the battery.
bad switch?
above the parking break in a blavk box
check the dome light fuse that could be the problem.......or interior fuse Instrument lights.
It is possible that the problem you are experiencing with your 1999 Volkswagen Passat is caused by a fault in the vehicle's headlight switch. The headlight switch controls the operation of the tail lights, as well as the head lights, and a malfunction in the switch can cause the tail lights to only function when the high beams are on. It is also possible that the issue could be caused by a problem with the wiring in the vehicle, such as a loose connection or a short circuit. I recommend having a mechanic diagnose and repair the problem, as it could be a safety issue if your tail lights are not functioning properly. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and repair it for you.
How do you remove the dashboard fascia on a 1999 Chevy Astro?
I had this happen to my 1999 town car. There is a computer lighting module which controls the action of the lights. A bad module causes lights not to respond to switches ( the switches don't turn on the lights directly, but send a signal to the computer lighting module). This unfortuantely is an expensive replacement.
the fuse should be labelled tail lights.(whats the problem with no. plate lights?)
The problem is the reverse light switch. It is located on the top of the transmission that should sloved your problem.
1999 Audi a6 quattro, How I fix the problem when the turn signals don't blink, but hazard lights work well?
I have the same problem with my 1999. The tail lights as well as the interior instrument panel and the license plate lights are all not working.
A short, or a severed wire all together. Get a tester that lights up, check it that way :)
If the lights that won't go off are the interior lights, then it could be a symptom of a stuck 'door ajar' switch/sensor. In that case, see "Related Questions" below for more discussion, fixes, and permanent repairs on the door ajar problem.