2002 Polo headlights

[JamesC]

Hi,

Anyone have any insights on how to do this (changing dipped beam bulbs)? I think I've read every page related to changing bulbs on VW cars and none of the pictures I've seen seem similar to my headlights. I'd consult my trusty haynes manual but I left it at someone who's abroad for a week so no chance of getting that.

Thanks for any help

[jimcornwall]

I have done this on my Polo 2003. Not sure if there is anydifference!
There is a retaining ring that holds the bulb in place. You have to twist one way to release the bulb and the opposite way to hold it in once you have removed and replaced it.
I did take the car to a VW/Audi garage(non-VW franchise) and even he didn't mention this ring. He was trying to twist the actual bulb but without success!
I was doing this on the right hand side headlamp and it was tight there to gets the hand in! It looks even more impossible on the other side in front of the battery!

[JamesC]

Hi,

Yeah - there is a retaining ring which has 2 torx screws you have to unscrew. I ended up buying a haynes manual. It's already paid for itself in the few bits I've done on my car.

Thanks

[poloowner]

I had a similar problem with a 2004 Polo - not sure if they are the same. The Torx screws did not need undoing - they are part of the latch, but the answer was to find a competent neighbour with a smaller hand than mine! - It was just a case of rotating the retaining clip, removing the bulb and replacing then rotating the clip again. Sounds easy - no it isn't, it's a right fiddle! As I put in an earlier post, as headlights are a legal requirement, being able to change them easily the side of the road should also be and not have to go to a main dealer!
Andrew

[Dancer]

If you are having difficulty replacing the Dip Headlamp bulbs because you can't get your hand into the space behind the headlamp. I have found the way to do it.
The Fuel Filter is held in a cylindrical holder fixed to the body with one Torx (T45) screw at the top and two Torx screws lower down. Remove these and you will be able to move the Fuel Filter without having to mess with the rubber tubes going to and from it. There is now plenty of leeway to allow you to put your hand in and remove and replace the new bulb. The Dip Headlight differs from the Main Beams, as they are held in place with a locking ring. These are removed by turning the ring anti-clockwise. Note, where the metal tab is when you remove the blown bulb, so that you can replace the bulb easily. It should be at the top. Insert the new bulb into the holder and secure it by turning the ring clockwise to lock it. Finally push the wiring plug onto the lugs on the back of the bulb.
If you are really stuck, Halfords can fit the bulb for you but they charge £4.99 to do it.
I was able to buy a heavy duty set of Torx Drivers (which look like Allen Keys but with circular stems and fluted ends with a hole in each end for 'security Torx screws' for £4 including shipping on eBay. I will keep these in the car along with the Emergency set of bulbs. Then I will be able to change a bulb at the roadside if the situation ever occurs.
Happy Motoring