Quote Originally Posted by BobMahal View Post
Hi,

I have a 2001 (UK-spec post-mid-life update) Audi A3 1.8 SE with the standard (clear-glass) headlights.

The users manual advices owners to take the car to a dealer to get the headlight bulbs replaced, which seems a bit excessive. Is there any easy way of getting at the bulbs to replace them?

Also does anyone know what size of bulbs they take as I keep on getting conflicting advice from websites depending upon whether I have front fog-lights fitted or not!

Thanks in advance for any help!

Bob.
Hey Bob,

Trev is correct in saying there are 2 types, but VAG usually only put HID (High Intensity Discharge) lamps into the top models i.e. RS4, RS6, Some exec saloons and you could immediatelt tell without taking anything out if you have HID. They are the lights that are really blue, like you see on Range Rovers, Bently's etc.

Secondly there were two models in 2001 Mk1 A3 and Mk2 or Mk1 facelift.

I've got a Mk2 A3 or Mk1 facelift if you prefer. Does you're headlights look like mine? Clear lenses? non-seperate indicator on the front?

And finally........ I replaced my bulbs about 18 months ago, funnily enough from Autobulbs direct but I bought them on ebay! Cost me about £24 with free 501 sidelights. Got them next day! No problems since.

Make sure you wear some kind of latex/rubber glove when changing the bulbs though, as the acid on your fingers can sometimes make the bulbs fail! I learnt that the hard way! lol!

Don't bother taking it to VAG, i'm sure they would like you to @ £102 p/h labour rate + part cost + VAT = £150 for changing some bulbs which incdentally is a 5 minute job!

If yours is the same chassis as mine (8L) it's a simple task.

1. Pop the Bonnet and remove the battery, it's only held onto the plate by 2 nuts w/plates on.
you can remove them simply with an adjustable spanner or a socket set with an extension barrel, your choice.

2. Pop the back covers off the rear of the headlamps, remove the connectors, pinch the springs holding the bulb in place and out she comes!

3. To fit the bulb........Carefully slot it in, lining up the notches on the bulb shoulders to the one's in the headlamp housing, and voila! replace springs, replace connectors, replace covers, reattach battery to baseplate, ensuring it's tightly fixed onto the plate!

Here's a link to the bulbs you'll need:

By the way these are the same set & supplier i got mine off, you might find them cheaper elsewhere.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/AUDI-A3-97-XEN...QQcmdZViewItem

Hope this helps

Chris