Dashboard lights

[Gazza1504]

Just bought a MK 3 GTI and the light on the dashboard clock does not light up when i turn the lights on. Is there an easy way of replacing the bulb without having to take the whole dashboard out?

[gtitdi]

I assume its the whole illumination of the dashboard you're talking about? Do the backlights on the lcd panels come on? The only way to replace the bulbs is to take it out but it's not as difficult as it seems, just a few screws..

[Gazza1504]

Hi Mate. No the clocks on the dashboard do light up its just the clock and MFA element that does not light up. Tried to access it from underneath the dash but can not get to it. I wondered if you had to take the dashboard out to access the back of the clocks. Want to know if there is a easier way?.

[gtitdi]

sorry, i see what you mean now. no there's no easier way but to take the dashboard unit out. What you need to do is take out the air vent grill to the right of the board (take out the two screws behind it), the panel with the airbag light in it (it'l just lever out with a small screwdriver) and then the light switch unit, unplugging both of them, then remove the two screws you just uncovered. If you then look to the left of the dashboard theres a small plastic cover which will pull out to reveal another screw - take that out. The whole panel should then come out with a bit of twisting! This uncovers the actual dasboard unit - you'll see a screw at either side - take these out, the board will then swing forward (it's hinged) then take out the plug at the back and unclip the dashboard and it will come out.

The bulbs come out with a twist and a pull. I've got loads spare if you need any, I took them out to replace them with blue LEDs  .

[Gazza1504]

Thanks for the advice I will give it a go

Cheers

Gaz