03 VW Polo (9n3 I think?) Headlights both stopped working.

[Coxy2373]

Hi all, sorry if this is wrong but I am brand new to forums etc. and I hope I found the correct place to post.

Both the main beam headlights stopped working on my 03 plate VW Polo (9n3 model I believe) at the same time. I replaced the bulbs, which had no affect so I checked the voltage at the bulb connectors, there was 0V present. I checked all relevant fuses and none had blown, so I checked the relays beneath the steering column and all energised with 12V applied on a bench power supply, but I replaced them to be sure but obviously this did not cure my problem. Additionally the intermittent front windscreen wiper setting seems to have developed a mind of its own, sometimes it does not work at all, sometimes it works normally and then speeds up to max speed and can not be turned off with the stalk. It even remains on with the key removed from the ignition switch! The Haynes manual appears to suggest that both these circuits have a connection to the 'x' contact relay which I believe is part of the central electronics module or ECU its difficult to ascertain the correct information for my model? Could these problems be a faulty headlight switch or steering column stalk?

Please help!

Thanks in Advance.

[micheal balbrig]

Have a look and see if there is a connection box near battery,and check for corrosion at terminals.
I also expect you should have 12v at both fuses. (open to correction)

[Coxy2373]

Thanks for your reply micheal balbrig,

I have checked the connections around the battery and they seemed fine. There was no sign of corrosion on the battery terminals but I cleaned them to be sure. Ill double check the voltage at the fuses tomorrow when I pick up my tools. I've now re-read my original post and I've been an idiot. My main/full beam does work as does the flash from the steering column stalk, it's my dipped headlights that have stopped working. Sorry I'm not really a car person.

Thanks again for your advice but any further help will be gratefully appreciated.

Thanks again.

[Dalski]

It could be the switch itself?

[Flash2]

It could be the switch itself?

Does the main beam flash work? If not, it's unlikely to be the switch.

[Coxy2373]

Thanks all for your replies. Yes Flash2 the main beam flash is working, cheers. Dalski it was indeed the headlight switch. I removed the unit and with the switch set to the headlight on position there was <200­ohms between the contacts, (connector pins 2 & 7 from memory) when I would expect a short circuit. To confirm I shorted the connector pins with copper wire and turned the ignition on, low and behold I had headlights! Now I just need to obtain a new/replacement headlight switch.

Thanks for all of you help.