My Mk.4 Golf is approaching 4 years old,I am expecting a headlamp bulb to fail soon, I know access is a potential NIGHTMARE.I have read an article claiming that bulb changes can be performed without too much fuss using a pair of "curved forceps". has anyone any experience or tips ?
thanks
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To change the main bulb on the nearside. ( Offside is easier than nearside, due to better access).
Remove battery cover for more access.
Remove the two pozidrive head screws which hold a plastic panel on, put these 2 screws somewhere where you can't lose them. Next pull the plastic panel out vertically there is a plastic catch which you need to push in, but it should slide smoothly out.
Then you should see the rear of the light assembly, the main beam is located behind a black plastic panel which stops water from getting into the light. This has a metal bar type retainer holding it in place pull this off and move it to the side.
The panel should then move. It will still be held in place at one end by a catch, pull the panel towards the engine and this should come off.
Next locate the main bulb it has two wires going into the back with a black connector pull the connector off and move it to one side, don't pull it by the wires.
Next the bulb is held in by a metal spring(see 1), you wont be able to see where the top of the spring is located so remove the bottom part first, you should then be able to pull the spring down remove this and put it in a safe place.
Take out the bulb, look at how it is positioned. Insert the new bulb in the same position as the old bulb was located.
And then repeat the steps above backwards.
Notes:-
(1) Or try this: Standing in front of the car, facing the car, move top vertical part of wire towards you, and at same time towards centre of car, then pull sideways toward centre of car.
Re fitting spring: Locate bottom of spring in holder. Move top vertical part of wire towards you, while pushing slightly to the nearside, this should hook the wire over the barb. Does not feel very positive when you've done it.
Tools needed: Long nose pliers, small pozidrive, mirror on a stick, light source.
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Alternatively... throw old car away. Buy identical replacement with working bulbs.
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Hasn't Golf Mark IV got combined main/dip bulbs?
Don't recall my Mk IV SDI caused me big problems, unlike the Passat! IIRC no tools were involved.
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I wasna fu but just had plenty.
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MkIV TDi had separate dip and main bulbs. TDi110 n/s was the problem - the VW techician I asked admitted he'd never done one, he'd always found someone with smaller hands to attempt it. The fleet 'service anything' man changed it for me...
The 97 TDI110 Passat was no problem for changing bulbs; the Golf MkV 105 looks as if it will be simpler - but you have to unbolt the complete light unit to get to the rear light bulbs...
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Ken
They tend to go at the same time also for some reason to make it even more interesting.
I had to drive home on sidelights in the middle of a dark winter's night. A lot harder than I ever imagined in a country lane.
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HI there, thanks for the detailed explantion, I will keep it handy for the future.
I have been looking under the bonnet, so I know is there any point in trying to move the battery ? ( whilst changing the nearside bulb)
thanks again
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Ken,
Remove battery COVER, not battery. The cover just unclips. Of course, it is possible that not all models of Mk IV have a battery cover as original equipment.
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