Help with CLimate Control lights

[Stephan_Zoltan]

I've got a 2000 Passat gls 1.8t and the lights behind the climate control dials don't work. VW wanted to charge me $50 to change burned out brake lights so I can only imagine what sort of deal they'll give me for something that might require real work...

Anyway, does anyone know if I can or how I can change the bulbs or do what every I need to do to be able to see my climate controls in the dark. Thanks in advance for any help.

Regards, Stephan

[Matimus]

If a 2000 Passat is anything like a 1995, replacing the heater/AC light bulb is an ordeal. It took me about 1.5 hours to replace the 35 cent bulb.

I had to start by removing the air duct vents and the radio ..... the dealer loaned me the secret tools to release the radio. Next, remove the instrument panel cover and work your way towards the center. The console also had to be loosened up to get the main cover off that surrounds the heater/AC controls. Remove the controls and disassemble to find the bulb.

I suspect the dealer will get between $90 and $150! Good Luck! The darkness bothered me too!

[boschmann]

It is actually simple, just pull off the center fan knob (some say it's easier in position #2). Use pliers & a cloth if you can't get it by hand. The bulb is behind it & is available at most auto parts stores.

[veedubmechanic]

Heres a hint that will help everyone alot!

use a 6'' piece of the smallest vacuum hose 1/4'' and press it on the bulb. the bulb will stick to the vacuum hose and come out. When installing the new bulb barely put the bulb in the hose and press it in the socket. Then twist the hose and pull out. Sometimes it takes a couple times to get the bulb to stay but you will save yourself 50bucks from the vw dealers doin it.!

[Stephan_Zoltan]

Thanks for the help. I got the switch out and the out with very little trouble. Now I'm having a hard time finding a light bulb that small. Auto Zone and Advance are no help. I could hit up the dealer, but I 'd rather not. Any thoughts on Napa or other places? Maybe an internet store?

Thanks

[veedubmechanic]

No. Just get one from the dealer. There like $3-4 after tax. And they will last alot longer than some generic brand one.

[ping83]

Great Tips! I was in the process of disassemblying my dash when I found this post. I used the end of mt sunglasses' strap to push over the bulb and pull it out.

[AZ_Maverick]

The bulb is called T5 Wedge and comes in many different colors. I recommend buying them from one of the many sellers on eBay prices often are as low as 1.00 with free shipping for quality LED style T5 bulbs you will need to get the wide angle LED bulb. On the VW Golf climate control, pulling the fan speed knob out can access light. Removal of the bulb can be done with rubber tubing shoved tightly over the bulb but I was able to use needle nose pliers being careful not to break the bulb.