How do you change a tail light in 2002 Volkswagen Passat 4 Motion wagon?

Answer

I just replaced a brake light on my 2002 Passat Wagon. Follow these directions (it is probably the same for other model years as well):

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 (this stick helps hold the black plastic assembly, so if you got as far as step 3 on your own and didn't pull this stick out you would be scratching your head wondering why it wouldn't come out). 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.

First answer by ID1112218895. Last edit by ID1112218895. Question popularity: 10 [recommend question]