How to Replace Passat Fog Lights

The fog lights on your Volkswagen Passat provide a lighting boost on the lower front of your car during some of the most dangerous road conditions you might face: fog, snow and rain. Over time the fog lights can burn out and require replacement. Waste no time in taking care of this bit of minor maintenance right away. The good news is that removal (and installation) is fairly simple. The average backyard mechanic can replace Passat fog lights in 20 minutes or less.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Paper towel
  • Replacement fog light
  • Reach your fingers through the slots in the plastic trim that surrounds the fog light on your VW Passat. Carefully release the tabs by hand.

  • Pry up the trim piece with your fingers to pop it out of place. Use the tip of a screwdriver if necessary to pry the trim, but exercise caution so that you don't damage the plastic. Removing this trim piece will give you the direct access you need to free the light.

  • Use a screwdriver to twist out the three screws on the fog light assembly.

  • Pull apart the wiring connectors with your hands.

  • Rotate the light assembly and pull it out, away from the car.

  • Separate the bulb from the assembly by turning it counterclockwise by hand.

  • Place a paper towel in your hand, and grasp the replacement fog light in your hand so that the bulb touches only the paper towel, not your hand. Insert the bulb into the assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it into position.

  • Slide the assembly back into the housing, and push the two wiring connectors together until they click into place.

  • Turn the three screws with the screwdriver until they are tight, and snap the trim piece back onto the car.