[nikkilaff00]

hello everyone
I went to replace my headlights today on my 03 beetle and im having some troubles. the passenger side unit came out easily and the bulb was replaced in no time. the drivers side unit will not come out and the lock tab is missing making it even more difficult to try and get it out. anyone every had this problem or have any advice? thanks in advance!!

 

[red99]

See the linked pdf here:

http://newbeetle.org/forums/technical-how/18665-hello-heres-my-headlight-catch-how.html

One of my lock tabs is missing as well. The tab itself is what creates the lock action, so without it there shouldn't be anything preventing the lever from moving. Try moving the lever back and forth until its range of motion will increase to the point that you can remove the headlight. The tracks on the lock ring fill with dirt that has to be worked out before the ring will loosen.

 

[phantom302]

I have found that sometimes if you open the hood and use a garden hose to spray out all the debris in the headlight area they come out much easier.