How do you replace a tail light on a 2003 VW Passat wagon?

Answer 1

I will be doing it today and will document with pictures and text. email me if additional questions. Wish me luck...

I f all the lights are out, you may want to check the fuse panel first, which is on the far left side of the dash, accessible by opening the driver side door.

http://shakti.trincoll.edu/~sritchie/Passat_fuse_panel.html

I just replaced my brake lights on my 2001 Passat Wagon, but it is probably similar to other models.

1. On the inside rear of the car (probably the trunk for sedan models), remove the panel behind the rear lights.

You should see a black plastic assembly and a separate light gray protrusion. The black plastic assembly holds three bulbs: 2 brake/night lights and 1 back up light. The gray stick holds the turn signal bulb.

2. Remove the gray stick. On the passenger side, turn the stick clockwise first, then remove. If it is stiff, you can use a flat blade screwdriver and insert into the hollow gray stick. On the driver side, turn the stick counter-clockwise.

On the driver side you will be hampered by the sound system amp. You may find it easier if you unplug the cables from the amp and the light assembly first and move the cables aside. Keep track of which plug goes where.

3. Remove the black plastic light assembly. There are 2 plastic tabs, one on each side that must be depressed while pulling out.

4. Replace the bad bulbs. I was able to buy these at Kragen for $6.50. It is a 7225 mini-bulb.

5. Repeat this process in reverse to re-assemble.