Parking brake switch failure

[mlewington]

Hi all,

Pretty sure there's no thread on this, so just wondering if any of you have had a similar issue.

The parking brake switch has broken on my 2012 B7. The plastic switch itself has broken - actually made my laugh when it came off in my hand! Am wondering if I can replace the individual switch or whether I have to buy the bank of 3 switches (parking brake, Auto Hold and traction control button). Also any info on how to prise off the various bits of plastic trim would be much appreciated.

Photos attached.

Cheers, Martyn

[benjie]

I've recently got a B7 and been tinkering to try and find out why the 12v socket doesn't work.

So, lift up the gear gaitor, then pry up the rectangular brushed silver trim at the back of the gear stick - you need to be quite firm with that. Under that is a T20 to remove, then the whole line of switches should pop right out (you might need to bend a bit of metal down near the T20 to free the switches). After that... I'm not sure as I didn't look at the parking brake switch, but you'll definitely have better access to it.

[mlewington]

Thanks, benjie, good advice. Have now got it sorted, thank goodness - even made a little "how to" video:
VW Passat B7 (2010 to 2014) Parking Brake Switch Replacement - YouTube (https://youtu.be/yd_cLMqfj9I)