Club 80-90 Forums

neither of my headlights work.

the fuses are OK, but they're separate for each one anyhow.

the full beams will work, to flash, but won't stay on.

both rear lamps and front sidelights work.

where is the fault? anyone any idea?

thanks.

I had exactly the same problem with the headlights on my van.

I found the connector on the back of the switch had come a bit loose, pushing it back on cured the problem - so check that out.

If it's not that then it could be the switch itself.

Could be a faulty relay.

Do you have the Workshop manual?

Andy

Fuse wise
The side lights and tail lights have 2 fuses (left and right)
Dipped head lights have 2 fuses (left and right)
main beam head lights have two fuses (left and right)

VW didnt see fit to add a relay to the lights, but lots of people have fitted them, so it could be a case of bodging.

T

Relays never fitted so its prob the switch... they get hot and burn out the contacts...
fit a pair of relays and see where you are going again... its amazing how much difference the correct voltage makes at the bulb.. Halogen bulbs are very sensetive to voltage drop... you should be getting at least 13v at the bulb with engine running and other stuff on... dont bother with "hi power/premium bulbs ubtil you fit relays... wont help...

I had this once and it were the bulbs, start simple then look further i didnt n took me ages...

have ajiggle about with your key when it's in the innittion! a few times i was driving along and the lights would suddeny just die on me, whilst driving, at first i'd panic and stop, but then i worked out to hold the stalk forward to see by full beam untill i could stop safely and jiggle the key about! that's what it was on mine anywho!

thanks andy - it is the switch.

the switch from my 1980 gets the headlights working, but not the side & rear lights.

other than trying GSF and the main dealer, where can i buy another headlight switch from?

Try the main dealer.

make sure you get the correct switch as there are a number of variations.

Andy

thanks andy, i spoke to heron of newark today, and they'll be one for me to collect tomorrow.
i read him the number form the old switch, so all should be OK