Help! Headlights & Daytime Running Lights Do Not Work

[scottsjunk]

Recently the headlights and daytime running lights on my '98 Passat quit working, both at the same time. I checked the bulbs, they are fine. I checked the fuses, they are fine. I even changed the headlight switch, that does not fix the problem. The fog lights and high-beams work. Is there a relay for the headlights or are they direct from the fuse?

[guumbah]

Pretty sure it's a relay. I know it was on the 2000's. I think it was in the engine compartment. It was my friend's car that I helped him on a couple of times, so I don't remember 100%.

[Glen H.]

I'm having a similar problem with my 97 passat TDI. My lights will go on when I turn on the car but go out while I'm driving. Also the heater fan and windshield wipers go out. If I shut off the car and then restart they'll go back on for a little while. Any help would be appreciated.

[bcopeland]

I have the same problem - did you guys find the solution?

[veedubmechanic]

you sure the headlight bulbs arent burnt out. Even if they look ok they may not be ok.

VW have issues with the headlight harness insidethe headlight. There is an updated harness you can buy but requires removal of the headlight (and to get those off you need to remove the front bumper)

[bcopeland]

Well, what if the high beams work on pulling back but not on pushing forward, the trun signals stop, the wipers stop, the horn does not blow, the wipers do not work - yet the car runs OK. The ignition switch and the LR Relay has been replaced.

[bcopeland]

It was the ignition switch. I took it to the repair shop and the switch as well as the burned wire (red #30 feed) was replaced.