Fits: 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle (A5/PQ35), factory halogen cars only.
Bulbs are not included. You supply 12V/35W H7/D2H HID bulbs, and their ballasts, for low and high beam. Have them ready before you start, because they go into the new housings during the install.
There are no bolts holding these headlights in. The whole assembly is held by a locking mechanism you turn with a socket, which makes this one of the easier headlight jobs on any car.
Required Tools
- Socket wrench, 5mm or 6mm
- Flathead screwdriver
Part 1: Remove the Factory Headlights
Step 1: Find the Locking Nut
Open the hood and look at the inner side of the headlight housing for the locking mechanism. It is marked with arrows for Open and Close.
Step 2: Unlock the Mechanism
Turn the locking nut in the Open direction with the socket wrench. The headlight assembly will pop forward slightly.
Step 3: Release the Safety Tab and Transfer Parts
With the lamp popped out, press the black safety tab on the side of the housing to release it fully, then draw the assembly out gently.
Transfer your original turn signal bulbs and their sockets from the factory headlight into the new housing. This is also the point to fit your H7/D2H HID bulbs and mount their ballasts, since neither is supplied with the lights.
Part 2: Install the New Headlights
Step 4: Connect the New Light
Plug the factory wiring harness into the new headlight and check that it clicks home.
Step 5: Slide In and Lock
Line the headlight up with the guide rails and slide it back into place, then turn the locking nut in the Close direction until the lamp sits flush with the body.
Tip: check that the condensation drain hose behind the light is not in the way before you push the assembly home.
Step 6: Function Test
Switch the ignition on and check the DRL, low beam, high beam and turn signals on both sides before you drive.
Common Issues and Solutions
Headlight does not turn on after installation. Check that the harness connectors are fully seated, and that the HID bulbs and ballasts you fitted are properly connected. Inspect the pins inside each connector; if any are bent, carefully straighten them with a small precision tool and reconnect securely.
Swap test. If a headlight still does not work, swap the left and right units to find out whether the issue is the light itself or the vehicle wiring.
The lamp will not sit flush. Back the locking nut off, check that the condensation hose is clear of the housing, and make sure the assembly is properly on its guide rails before locking it again.
Condensation inside the headlight. Temperature differences can cause light condensation, which is normal. Once the light has been on for a while and the internal temperature stabilizes, the moisture clears on its own. It does not affect brightness, performance, or lifespan.
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